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

  • Incredibly transparent sound reveals details and nuances in recordings
  • Excellent control over the music, from the bass to the treble, without sounding strained or harsh
  • Very low noise floor
  • Sublime and impressive build quality with careful component selection
  • Wide and deep soundstage recreates a realistic acoustic space

Product Considerations

  • Expensive
  • Significant rack space is required due to its multiple chassis design—amplifier and separate power supply
  • Setup can be challenging due to the weight and multiple connections
  • Some may find the amplifier's aesthetics, particularly the acrylic casework, unappealing
  • Remote responds sluggishly

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Luxman L-509u has tighter bass control, but the ASR Emitter I is more transparent, cohesive, and a better all-around performer
  • Esoteric A-100 is similar in dynamic range and headroom, but the ASR Emitter I is more transparent, cohesive, and a better all-around performer
  • ASR has more speed, clarity, and power than the Bryston 14B-SST
  • ASR does not emotionally involve the listener as well as the Wavac EC-300B

Takeaway: The ASR Emitter I offers very clear and controlled sound, letting you hear music like never before. If a great sounding amp is desired, the Emitter I could be a good choice.

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.

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.

Akku Netzteil:  

  • Positioning: A compact power accessory focused on portable, stable DC output.  
  • Description: Offers a low-noise battery power supply designed for setups where portability and basic power provision matter.

Phono-Vorverstärker:  

  • Positioning: An entry-level preamplifier designed for turntable systems.  
  • Description: Uses a straightforward low-noise amplification circuit with built-in RIAA equalization to clarify vinyl audio signals.

HiFi Vollverstärker:  

  • Positioning: A mid-range integrated amplifier that combines power amplification and preamplification.  
  • Description: Features a stable circuit design with efficient thermal management and low-distortion performance to ensure consistent sound quality.

Index Series:  

  • Positioning: A core product line that embodies the brand's signature blending of digital control with analog reliability.  
  • Description: Incorporates a digital control platform with a modular power regulation system that enhances audio fidelity in diverse listening environments.

HiFi Highend Verstärker:  

  • Positioning: A premium amplifier engineered for top-tier audio performance in demanding environments.  
  • Description: Employs advanced circuit design with isolated power stages and high-quality components to achieve exceptional clarity and low noise.
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

Manufacturer's notes

The Emitter I Basic is a mature and full-grown high-end amplifier weighing 51 kilos in total, which is constantly supplied with the required energy via an external power supply. This ensures quiet working conditions in the main unit, which has a very positive effect on performance and sound.
The Emitter I Basic, with its total weight of 51 kilos, is a sophisticated and fully-fledged high-end amplifier that is always supplied with the required energy via an external power supply. This means that the main unit operates in quiet conditions, which has a very positive effect on performance and sound. The following applies to all Emitter models: When it comes to music playback, there is nothing but pure truth in its most beautiful form!

ASR Emitters stand for an unfiltered, unvarnished and effect-free sound. This is also why almost all types of music are reproduced excellently and honestly. Thanks to the deliberate excess of power reserves, the Emitter I Basic is always able to conjure up an extremely clean, calm, detailed and energetic sound in the listening room.

Crisp, deep and wobble-free bass, warm and colorful mids and a soft, realistic treble all work together as if they were cast in one piece. In summary, the Emitter I Basic produces a "tangibly" realistic stage that "audibly" anchors all performers and instruments firmly in their places.

The loudspeakers literally disappear, movements on the stage are reproduced in a localizable and fluid manner and are immediately perceived as such. Stability and more stability is another key criterion for us. If the stage in a song is distorted, even for a brief moment, artists and/or instruments suddenly no longer sound fr...
  • Power Output 8 Ohm: 2x 140 Watt
  • Power Output 4 Ohm: 2x 250 Watt
  • Power Output 2 Ohm: 2x 450 Watt
  • Transformers: 2x 500 VA
  • Filter Capacitance: 404,440 uF
  • Weight: 51 kg
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Average Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used Products
0
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Brand Popularity
290
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3
Founded
1995

Our take on the brand

ASR Audio's Emitter II Exclusive amplifier creates a vast, tube-like soundstage and three-dimensional presentation without tube colorations, while maintaining exceptional transparency and a low noise floor. The brand stands out for its emphasis on measurements and scientific analysis in audio equipment evaluation, often sparking debates between measurement-focused and subjective listening-focused audiophiles.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
Brand Page
Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
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What if you spend a bit more?

Diablo 333
24900
24900
/
9
Reviews
Gryphon

Integrated amplifiers have become the essential audio component, distilling sources, amp, preamp and interconnects into a single chassis. And since 2015, connoisseurs have revered the Gryphon Diablo 300 as the finest integrated amplifier ever produced and a genuine “Object of Desire.” Unanimously praised by critics and with thousands sold, it became High End Audio’s most coveted “Ultra-Luxe” integrated.

Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional bass control, power, speed, and definition provides a bedrock foundation for the music
  • Wide and deep soundstage with precise imaging
  • Dead-neutral tonal balance with grain-free clarity, effortless speed, and precision
  • Life-like dynamic expression and detail resolution, sounding exquisitely lifelike
  • Lively, energetic sound combined with pleasing harmonics, warmth, and a kind of lusciousness achieves a nice balance

Product Considerations

  • The binding posts are located low on the rear panel, which might be problematic for some installations
  • It gets hot, requiring adequate ventilation
  • It's a heavy unit, making it difficult to move and set up
  • The cost is very high, making it exclusive-level hifi
  • The speaker spiked feet can make it difficult to position the amplifier

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Diablo 300, the Diablo 333 gives more music and musical information, developing the soundstage with harmonic information, knitting all the individual parts together; the music becomes less about individual things and more about the whole
  • Strong resemblance to the Apex Commander combination, but at a fraction of the cost
  • While the Antileon digs deeper and presents a fuller presentation across the low frequencies, the Diablo 333 slams harder and slightly tighter

Takeaway: The Gryphon Diablo 333 is a powerhouse integrated amplifier that combines exceptional power and control with refined sound and detailed musicality making it one of the very best amplifiers, be it integrated or not. Its versatility and musical soul make it a solid choice for anyone looking for an end-game component.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Diablo 333
page
Product Page
032
25000
25000
/
6
Reviews
Burmester

The 032 Integrated Amplifier offers a wide variety of connectivity that far exceeds the normal range of integrated amplifiers. A PRE OUT output, for example, allows the connection of a separate power amplifier or the central volume control of different listening zones within a multi-room application. With its mighty 650 VA power supply the 032 Integrated Amplifier effortlessly delivers continuous high current in order to perfectly control even large speakers with low impedance and complex loads. Excellent special resolution and musicality are the hallmarks of the 032.

Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Music is delivered without perturbation, showcasing a 'grip' on the music
  • A beautiful sonic palette is present, with a warm, detailed bass and very smooth, detailed highs
  • Understated approach to music replay is pure and precise, without coarseness or grain
  • Fabulously well made, with impressive build and finish
  • Volume control has a hefty, well-damped but very precise feel to it, and the amplifier's on-board software is quick to respond

Product Considerations

  • The headphone output is hidden on the rear panel, making it inconvenient to connect
  • Large and heavy (around 40kg), requiring sturdy equipment support and assistance when unpacking
  • The combination of heatsinks all-round and reflective chrome front panel may not be to all tastes
  • Highly transparent sources and speakers are required to get the best performance

Takeaway: The Burmester 032 integrated amplifier sounds exceptional with refined sound and impressive insight. If the system is talented, this amplifier could be a great match.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
032
page
Product Page
Sigsum
20252
20252
/
4
Reviews
Avid Hifi

Driven by sound quality and our uncompromising approach to offer the best in class, the sensational SIGSUM Integrated was conceived.Our single chassis amplifier offers unparalleled performance for those that desire less clutter or with demands on their dwellings.

Musical Obsession

SIGSUM swiftly dispels any preconception that single chassis amplifiers limit performance. Condensing our reference designs into class leading premium products is our forte and its clarity and power will expose a musical revelation.

Lurking behind our trademark embellished front panel we have distilled, condensed and shoe-horned our reference technology into a singular monument to convey true musicality.

awesome

Incorporating our Pulsus phono stage solidifies our vinyl heritage and with a dedicated mains transformer giving independent power to each channel, your favourite records will sound outstandingly realistic.

Independently powering the Pre and dual mono amplifiers is a phenomenally large mains transformer and capacitor reservoir, delivering an unadulterated sound through the worlds best volume control to your ears. Simply Awesome.

AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very low noise floor creates a wide open and clear soundstage with excellent space between each musical element
  • Delivers subtle intricate details of music, the decays, and the harmonics
  • The built-in phono stage—the Pulsus—provides a clear and clean sound, allowing for a more open and see-through soundstage
  • The ALPS RK50 volume knob is satisfying to adjust with its stiff—yet smooth—resistance
  • The unit is handmade in the UK

Product Considerations

  • Limited number of inputs may not be sufficient for all users
  • Lacks a remote control, which may be inconvenient for some users
  • Awkward access to the underside cartridge adjustment for gain, resistance, and capacitance may be annoying to adjust
  • May emphasize upper vocals, which may not be ideal for all types of music, especially at louder volumes
  • The mid/upper bass may be a little shy, lacking the solidity, impact, and warmth that some listeners prefer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The NAD M23 has a bolder, stronger, and punchier bass compared to the Sigsum
  • The McIntosh sounds more powerful, solid, secure, and full in terms of tone—and bigger overall—compared to the Sigsum
  • The Pulsus phono stage sounds clearer and cleaner than the Avid Pellar phono stage, but the Pellar sounds fuller and thicker

Takeaway: The Avid SigSum is a specialized amplifier that is designed for the audiophile who values the preservation of detail, particularly from vinyl playback. It's a great amplifier to highlight the nuances of music, while offering a clean and precise sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Sigsum
page
Product Page
Rhapsody
24122
24122
/
4
Reviews
Trafomatic

Rhapsody is the pinnacle of our decades of experience in developing State of the art valve amplifiers. The name itself is the expression of our devotion to the Music and the Art. By definition it implicates the profound roots and legacy to the ancient Greek Art of the rhapsodists in performing Epics, to the most modern compositions, where the one-movement work structure of highly contrasted moods, colours and tonality, is expansive and yet unified in structure. The 300B valves are a piece of great audio history that are represented in the Rhapsody in the best and most refined way. The naturalness, the drive, their tonality and rich colour pallets are unmistakable. All of those virtues are combined and moved a step further by Trafomatic dedication into the deep understanding of the cyrcuit. The result is a endlessness adventure in discovering undisclosed hidden places in your favorite recordings.

Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a 'silky sheen' characteristic of SET designs, which helps to prevent listener fatigue
  • Offers a 'room-filling, full-blown' sound, especially with orchestral music
  • The Trafomatic Audio Rhapsody presents an 'expressive' and 'real' dynamic range, creating a live musical experience
  • Has an innate sense of melody that draws you into the musical mix, and an over-arching sense of sonic accuracy
  • Features auto-biasing and toggles for 'Mesh' and 'Solid' 300B tubes, for enthusiasts who wish to try different valves

Product Considerations

  • Limited wattage may restrict loudspeaker choices, requiring pairing with high-sensitivity models
  • Bass frequencies exhibit higher distortion at lower power outputs
  • The amplifier's modest S/N ratio suggests some mild background hiss may be audible
  • Bright red chassis is a fixed color scheme, which may not appeal to everyone
  • Reviews of the Rhapsody should be judged as very specific amplifier/speaker combos

Takeaway: The Trafomatic Rhapsody is a class act that draws attention to itself purely through its vivid and real sound. It plays music in such a way that one might never want to listen to anything else.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Rhapsody
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

Ultima Integrated
11700
/
Released
2023
Chord Electronics
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a class-leading 125-watt integrated amplifier benefitting from the latest dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, Chord Electronics' legendary proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies, plus an unmistakable industrial aesthetic.
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Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Astonishing agility, precision, and clarity
  • Spacious and uncluttered presentation
  • Sturdy build
  • Combines the precision and speed of older designs, but renders the sound with a naturalness
  • Provides plenty of power without compromising on detail or clarity

Product Considerations

  • Most rivals are better equipped
  • Can sound thin if partnered poorly
  • Could deliver stronger dynamic contrasts
  • The balance control has no center detent or marked position
  • No digital inputs or Wi-Fi

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Mark Levinson's No.5805 or PMC Cor, some may prefer the warmer, fuller presentation of rivals
  • Vs Naim Supernait 3, it doesn't track the music's rhythms with the skill of the Naim
  • Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivered undeniably elevated sound in all respects
  • Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, midrange, especially with vocals, was more lifelike through the Ultima Integrated—smoother and more liquid
  • Clear preference for Chord Ultima, especially the dynamics
  • Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord is more natural and closer to the CH Precision system in terms of tonality and neutrality

Takeaway: The Ultima Integrated offers much of the performance of Chord's pre/powers in a neat one-box solution, presenting a refreshingly straightforward product to use. The Chord Ultima Integrated is a thrilling and soothing amplifier capable of weaving a wonderfully spellbinding sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Ultima Integrated
Page
Product Page
H600
12500
/
Released
2023
Hegel
H600 is our reference integrated amplifier. With its 303 watts in 8 ohms, a damping factor of 4000, and 2 ohms drive capability, this powerhouse of an amplifier can drive any speaker with confidence and ease. The amplifier is a dual mono design, bringing it as close as possible to the performance of two mono amps in a single box. It also boasts a state-of-the-art preamplifier with the extremely precise volume attenuator found in our reference P30A amplifier.
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Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Dual-mono design delivers 303W per channel into 8 ohms, providing power and control for any speaker
  • High damping factor of over 4000 ensures absolute control over speaker drivers, resulting in pristine sound reproduction
  • New DAC implementation based on ESS Sabre 9038Q2M chip offers pure audio fidelity without any resampling or upsampling
  • Supports streaming via Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and UPnP/DLNA

Product Considerations

  • Does not have a phonostage
  • Lacks an HDMI jack with ARC
  • The supplied RC10 remote is slender with tiny buttons
  • Weighs 22kg
  • Minimalist design may be a bit bland for some

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bryston B135 SST 2, the H600 delivers more effortless presentation at high output
  • Vs McIntosh MA9500, the H600 has bigger sound, is crisper and has higher resolution

Takeaway: The H600 is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier that excels in delivering high-quality audio from both digital and analog sources. Its robust amplification makes it a great choice for audiophiles seeking a simplified yet high-end audio solution.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
H600
Page
Product Page
Kula
15055
/
Released
2021
Mola Mola
Imagine a sleek, compact design that oozes class. Imagine an amplifier design that packs enough power to comfortably handle even the most demanding of loudspeakers. Imagine a complex yet agile and easy to use fully transparent line stage. Imagine every possible Phono EQ setting available from the comfort of your listening chair. Imagine a highly acclaimed discrete DAC boasting the best specs and sound around. Imagine, combining all of the above! Reality. Is. Kula!
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Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional audio quality from its line inputs, optional streaming DAC, and optional Phono stage
  • Stunning transparency, commendable focus, and open and airy sound staging
  • Inspired and seamless reproduction—with a spark of life quality
  • User-configurable phono stage that competes with pricey dedicated boxes
  • The DAC module, based on the Tambaqui, rivals many uber-expensive standalone units

Product Considerations

  • The Kula gets quite hot during operation, needing a decent amount of ventilation
  • The LEDs are very bright, and there is no way of turning them off
  • The remote is borrowed from Apple TV and is not refined enough to give decent control over volume
  • There is no coaxial digital input

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Kula sounds a little sweeter than Mola Mola Kaluga mono amplifiers
  • The Mola Mola Kula sounded like a sibling to Leben CS600

Takeaway: The Mola Mola Kula is a state-of-the-art, all-in-one amplification solution that brings music to life with transparent and life-sized sound. With optional modules, it becomes a highly versatile and elegant solution for audiophiles who want top performance in a single box.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Kula
Page
Product Page
641
10999
/
Released
2023
MOON
A thrilling integrated amplifier and gateway to the North Collection.
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MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Stunningly handsome design and aesthetics, with a curvaceous chassis and easy-to-read display
  • Offers a rare sense of liberation and fluidity, allowing music to flow freely and cleanly
  • Delivers a wealth of transient definition, deep and solid bass, heaps of dynamic contrast, and plenty of timbral information
  • Capable of driving difficult speaker loads without issue
  • Excellent build quality and finish

Product Considerations

  • Lacks digital inputs, phono stage, and headphone output
  • Only has a single balanced input
  • May be considered minimalist in specification by some, especially considering the price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • It performs better than Moon 600i v2 and 700i v2 amplifiers, apart from ultimate power compared to 700i v2

Takeaway: The Moon 641 is a well-designed, high-performing integrated amplifier that prioritizes sound quality and ease of use. It is a good choice for those who appreciate a refined and engaging listening experience with a focus on analog sources.

Video review

Our take on the brand

MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
641
Page
Product Page
L-509Z
12495
/
Released
2023
Luxman
Taking our Z-Series integrated amplifiers to a performance peak. As the premium model for the new Z-Series generation, the L-509Z has evolved beyond the concept of a traditional integrated amplifier. Both the preamplifier and power amplifier sections simultaneously use our new generation amplification feedback engine "LIFES" for the first time. The volume control is supported by our new "LECUA-EX" attenuator system that suppresses sound quality deterioration and realizes a more precise feel of operation.
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Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Strikingly clean and detailed presentation
  • Plenty of power to drive difficult speaker loads, with close to doubling of output as impedance halves
  • Exceptionally well made with reassuringly solid casework and precise controls
  • Adaptable phono stage offering easy switching between MM and two MC options
  • Wonderfully unforced and natural performance at any listening level

Product Considerations

  • Needs care in system matching to avoid a slight lack of richness/body, tone controls can help
  • No impedance adjustment on the phono stage
  • Very large physically, which may pose placement issues
  • Plastic battery cover on the metal remote is a misstep in overall exemplary build

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Moon by Simaudio 641 or McIntosh MA8950, the L-509Z has a slight lack of richness and body to the sound
  • Compared to McIntosh MA8950, the L-509Z requires separate source equipment—unlike the all-in-one MA8950
  • Compared to Vitus RI 101 Mk II, the Vitus is a bit more dynamic and slightly brighter—but costs significantly more without a sound difference worth the price
  • Compared to L-509X, the newer L-509Z is more dynamic and has more high-end sparkle

Takeaway: The Luxman L-509Z is a meticulously crafted and powerful integrated amplifier that delivers a refined and balanced sound. Its exceptional build quality and versatile features make it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles seeking a top-tier analog listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
L-509Z
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

  • Incredibly transparent sound reveals details and nuances in recordings
  • Excellent control over the music, from the bass to the treble, without sounding strained or harsh
  • Very low noise floor
  • Sublime and impressive build quality with careful component selection
  • Wide and deep soundstage recreates a realistic acoustic space

Product Considerations

  • Expensive
  • Significant rack space is required due to its multiple chassis design—amplifier and separate power supply
  • Setup can be challenging due to the weight and multiple connections
  • Some may find the amplifier's aesthetics, particularly the acrylic casework, unappealing
  • Remote responds sluggishly

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Luxman L-509u has tighter bass control, but the ASR Emitter I is more transparent, cohesive, and a better all-around performer
  • Esoteric A-100 is similar in dynamic range and headroom, but the ASR Emitter I is more transparent, cohesive, and a better all-around performer
  • ASR has more speed, clarity, and power than the Bryston 14B-SST
  • ASR does not emotionally involve the listener as well as the Wavac EC-300B

Takeaway: The ASR Emitter I offers very clear and controlled sound, letting you hear music like never before. If a great sounding amp is desired, the Emitter I could be a good choice.

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.

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