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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Delivers a naturally smooth midrange and treble, which is particularly good on vocals, trumpet, and violins
- Small (13 × 11 × 3 inches) and light (14 pounds), which is very convenient
- Runs cool (five watts at idle)
- Gives a strong, warm lower midrange and bass
- The sound of male vocals is a specialty of this amp with lower midrange delivered with very good warmth and humanity
Product Considerations
- Music sounds dull and uninteresting
- Reaches its power limits, with sound starting to get murky at concert level volumes
- Harmonics and low-level resolution are limited, resulting in cymbals sounding like AM radio hiss
- The bass range is very full, like rolling thunder, while the detail and dynamic punch is quite limited
- Harmonics are limited, the natural fade out of a bell, triangle or other percussion happens far too quickly—robbing the sound of depth and character
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Parasound JC 5: Described as 'bottom up' in voicing compared to the JC 5's 'top down' approach, with the JC 5 presenting a more honest representation but the Atma-Sphere being more fun
- Vs Atma-Sphere M-60s: The comparison was found to be 'somewhat spooky' with the classic Atma-Sphere OTL presentation transported to a Class D amplifier
- Vs Benchmark AHB2: The Atma-Sphere may have a slightly warmer sound
Takeaway: The Atma-Sphere Class D amplifier is a well-built amplifier that delivers a smooth and engaging sound, and is especially great if you enjoy vocal music. Its efficient design makes it a cool-running option for audiophiles seeking a high-quality listening experience.
All
Class D
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Output power: 100 watts per channel into 8 Ω, 200 watts per channel into 4 Ω
- Input Impedance: 100 KΩ balanced/single-ended
- Output Impedance: ~0.010 Ω
- Input: 2.15 Vrms for full output
- Gain: 22dB
- Power Bandwidth: 1Hz-20KHz
- Frequency response: 1Hz-20KHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion: less than 0.1% at full power
- IM distortion: less than .04% at full power
- Feedback: 35 dB
- Power consumption: 5 watts at idle (per channel)
- Dimensions: 13" deep x 11" wide x 3" high (33 x 28 x 8 cm) per chassis
- Weight: 14 lbs (6.35 kg), per chassis
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Atma-Sphere's designs center around "Balanced Differential Design," ensuring fully balanced circuits in every component for enhanced signal purity.
- As an output transformerless (OTL) amplifier manufacturer, they are known for designs which avoid output transformers, resulting in faster response and a more direct connection to the music.
- Atma-Sphere's Class D amplifiers offer a solid-state option with the goal of replicating the smoothness of their tube amplifiers while improving efficiency and reducing distortion.
Select products
MA-1
- Positioning: The entry-level amplifier designed for compact and simple setups.
- Description: Uses a straightforward circuit and build with essential connectivity that makes it ideal for small rooms and modest sonic goals. Compared to the MP-3 or MA-3, keeps costs low while delivering the basic functions needed for everyday audio without additional features.
MP-3
- Positioning: A mid-range solution that balances simplicity with added digital and connectivity features.
- Description: Offers a cleaner digital processing design and improved signal clarity compared to the MA-1, making it a step up for users seeking more control. In contrast with the higher-tier MA-3, M-60, and GEM, provides moderate performance improvements and connectivity enhancements.
MA-3
- Positioning: A higher-performance amplifier aimed at audiophiles requiring refined audio detail.
- Description: Integrates advanced circuitry and improved power supply management to deliver a richer sound compared to both the MA-1 and MP-3. When compared with the more powerful M-60 and flagship GEM, offers a balanced mix of technical upgrades and connectivity options.
M-60
- Positioning: A robust integrated amplifier built for larger environments and more versatile functionality.
- Description: Uses a more sophisticated design with higher power output and expanded connectivity that distinctly outperforms the MA-3 in handling larger room acoustics. Relative to the lower-priced models, provides additional technical features and a broader suite of functionalities.
GEM
- Positioning: The flagship model delivering the most advanced audio performance in the lineup.
- Description: Incorporates groundbreaking technologies and premium components that ensure unmatched clarity and dynamic range compared to the M-60 and all other models. In contrast to every other product in the series, its refined build, extensive functionality, and top-tier performance are aimed at users with high budget tolerance and demanding sonic goals.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
One thing that distinguishes us from other manufacturers is our craftsmanship. Open the amp or preamp up and it’s pretty obvious when compared to our competition. We also price according to a formula rather than what the market will bear, so our equipment tends to be less expensive. Of course, we are well known for our OTLs. We have also embraced balanced line operation longer than anyone else in high-end audio with the first balanced line preamps ever made for home audio.
What's your approach to customer support?
We handle customer support directly if we can. It’s nice if a dealer can do it for us, but quite often they get in over their head, so we recommend the customer contact us directly if at all possible. We stand behind our products and support amps and preamps we made a long time ago with an update program that allows the older product to meet the specs of the new with a new warranty. We’re not picky about the length of the warranty and have warranted equipment that was well out of the regular warranty period.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
I like to play a variety of tracks to show off our gear. We made a recording called Canto General which, because I was there, I like to use as a reference since it will tell me how well a system is imaging, how well it’s handling voices and bass, as well as dynamic contrast. We issued it on LP and CD. The CD is still available, but the LP was only 1,000 pressed and sold out a long time ago. Otherwise, I like to play stuff that shows off the bass. One recording I use for that is Remotion by Global Communication. Female voice is often requested at shows, so I might put on something by Pentangle on the TransAtlantic label, or The Secret Garden by the John Renbourn Group.
What other products pair best with yours?
Our MA-2s get used a lot with Sound Lab ESLs. The M-60s get used a lot with older Quad ESLs and horn systems. Our preamps work nicely with most power amps that have a true balanced input, like Pass Labs.
Used
Atma-Sphere
What if you spend more?
The AGD DUET Monoblock Amplifier, is the newest addition to our state of the art Hi-End Power Amplifiers family. The AGD DUET is our first compact Monoblock Amplifier utilizing 100% Gallium Nitride Power MOSFET design for both the output power stage and the power supply.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size, lightweight, and runs cool compared to traditional high-end amplifiers
- Exceptionally quiet operation, with reviewers noting a complete absence of hum or buzz
- Delivers a clean, crisp, and neutral sound signature without added coloration
- Upgradeable design, allowing users to update the amplifier with new GaN modules as technology evolves
- Produces a Single Ended Triode-like midrange and top end
Product Considerations
- The polished finish is a fingerprint magnet, requiring the use of gloves for handling
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AGD Audion MKIII: The Duets offer a cleaner and more refined sound with improved bass and greater immediacy and snap compared to the Audion MKIII
- Vs Daniel Hertz Maria: The AGD Duets seem to have a little more inner resolution
- Vs Pass Labs X250.8: The AGD Duets performed to a higher level
- Vs Peachtree GaN 1/VTV GaN amps: AGD amps seem to be on another level in regards to design, and the sound is more refined and beautiful
- Vs Aavik U-150, Luxman 595, Yamaha A-S 3200, Axxess Forte 1, Line Magnetic 219ia: The AGD Duets performed to a higher level
Takeaway: The AGD Duet amplifiers offer a blend of cutting-edge technology, exceptional sound quality, and user-friendly design. They are a great option for those seeking a high-end audio experience in a compact and energy-efficient package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Able to drive reference Sound Lab electrostatic speakers effectively
- Designed and developed under Merrill's 'Project Oganesson', highlighting their sonic abilities and the methods used to achieve them
- The exterior looks good, especially the brightly colored front panel 7' Capacitive Touch Screen Display (CTSD)
- Complete transparency and lack of colorization
- Gaia III's feet from isoAcoustics were hand selected for their superior dampening and to isolate the amplifiers from surrounding vibrations
Product Considerations
- Not a member of the 'easily affordable' high-end audio equipment club
- There is no power switch
- These amplifiers are designed to be powered on and left on
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Element 110 is a scaled-down version of the Element 116, using lower-priced components, heatsinks, and other constituents, and lower power, but it has the same transient response
- The Element 110 monoblocks did not scale the same sonic heights as the Element 118s, but the Element 110 monoblocks have many characteristics that impressed
Takeaway: The Merrill Audio Element 110 is an impressive amplifier that delivers music with transparency and without unwanted coloration. It is a powerful and efficient choice for audiophiles looking for high-quality sound reproduction.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
The Emitter II models are considered by real music connoisseurs and uncompromising audiophiles to be the ultimate in amplifier construction. Almost purely by hearsay, a music-addicted and ever-growing fan base has developed worldwide, which has realized its dream of a concert hall in its own home.
Powered by two separate power supplies, the most sophisticated loudspeakers and elaborately constructed dynamic converters are driven to peak sound performance. With an Emitter II Basic, music unfolds in the full dynamic range. From the breath to the slightest rustle on the stage to the power of the full orchestra, the Emitter II Basic reproduces all tones neutrally, powerfully, energetically, with high resolution and unadulterated in the listening room.
Especially at peak levels at concert volume, the playback and spatial imaging remain absolutely stable. Quiet listeners also rave about the noticeable and very pleasant energy in the sound, which makes the music a relaxing and pleasant experience even at low levels.
Product Strengths
- Known for combining the musicality of tube amplifiers with the precision and power of solid-state amplifiers.
- It provides a transparent sound with steel control, without the electronic 'shine' associated with transistor amplifiers.
- Exceptional bass performance, described as deep, explosive, and completely controlled.
- Homogeneous frequency range, offering a very high degree of transparency and control.
- Offers an ability to resolve even the finest musically significant details.
Product Considerations
- Requires a substantial amount of space due to its multi-component design.
- The sound offered might be 'too beautiful' for some listeners, as it is not 'brutal' or 'terse' enough.
- Requires care in using its switches to avoid shutdowns.
- Some reviewers note it was 'dark sounding' on the highs, though it did not lack information.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Quad ESL loudspeakers, it surpasses the musicality and clarity achieved with many tube amps, rivaling even high-end options like Lamm Industries ML2.2 and Miyajima Laboratory 2010.
- The ASR has better bass and is more transparent than MBL, however, it lacks the grace that MBL offers.
- Compared to Rogue 180W monoblocks, the ASR Emitter II delivers better bass.
- The ASR Emitter II has slightly better bass control than Manley Neoclassic 500, but the Neoclassic 500 has a more marvelous style of fiddling.
- Compared to Edge and Audio Research, the ASR is darker sounding.
Takeaway: The ASR Emitter II Exclusive offers a combination of tube-like warmth and solid-state precision, making the listening experience a very involving one. It provides exceptional control and detail across the entire frequency range, making it a great choice for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- GaN technology allows for efficient power usage, with 94% of energy being turned into sound
- Compact size challenges the notion that high-quality amps need to be large
- Design and packaging create pride of ownership
- It can be run in bridged mode to deliver 400 watts into one channel
- Stability and ability to handle complex impedance loads
Product Considerations
- The slight sonic signature may not be for everyone
- If truly outrageous amounts of power are needed to drive speakers, a second AGD Tempo amp might be needed to run in a bridged configuration
- High-frequency noise was discovered when XLR cables were not connected between them
- Power cords can make a large difference, the included power cord doesn't flatter the amp
- Some traditionalists may find it hard to accept that it's a Class-D amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Peachtree Audio GaN400, the AGD Tempo reports to have better overall specifications
- Compared to Parasound Halo A21+, the AGD Tempo is simply superior
- Compared to Bricasti M30 monoblock amplifiers, the level of which the most subtle detail exists approaches reference Bricasti M30 monoblock amplifiers
Takeaway: The AGD Productions Tempo is a cutting-edge amplifier that offers a new take on audiophile amplification and rivals more expensive amplifiers. It can drive speakers easily while being energy efficient.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The A35.8 provides eight channels of 'unimpeachable Class D power in a fairly compact and very flexible package'
- Flexible configuration options for power output to speakers are available, such as bi-amping and bridging
- Each stereo pair can be bridged separately to make four times 375 watts (8 Ohms) from the eight times 150 watts
- Fault-free sound quality
- High quality fit and finish
- The A35.8 offers flexible connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The 20-amp power inlet is the seldom-seen variety with three horizontal blades
- The speaker output posts are spaced too widely for dual-banana plugs
- Cabling can be tricky
- A high current power cord is needed
- Lower gain is present, though this doesn't necessarily need to be an issue
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M28, the A35.8 gets you one more channel and more versatility for a 10% price increase
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Benchmark presented a more neutral tonal balance and undistorted soundstage
- Vs NAD C 298 stereo amplifiers, the Primare seemed slightly more forward, often conveying an appealing liveliness
Takeaway: The A35.8 power amplifier is a flexible and versatile product worth considering for anyone seeking a high-quality multi-channel setup. Its ability to bridge channels offers many ways to configure your speaker system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean, neutral, and transparent sound signature that neither adds nor takes away from the source material, ensuring high fidelity music reproduction
- Excellent built-in DAC using dual Burr-Brown PCM1794A chips, comparable to some standalone DACs
- Well-implemented built-in MM phono stage, outperforming entry-level outboard phono stages and suitable for higher-end MM cartridges
- Gorgeous casework with customizable finish options, blending wood and metal for an elegant appearance
- High power output (200W into 8 ohms, 400W into 4 ohms) capable of driving a wide range of speakers with ease
- Single Shot only has single-ended RCA inputs, the Double Shot variant is needed for balanced inputs
Product Considerations
- The built-in phono stage lacks loading and gain options, potentially limiting compatibility with some moving coil cartridges
- The DAC section is USB input only and might not be as keen on very high sample rates (above 192kHz)
- Some reviewers would like to see a COAX digital input
- The lights on the front panel might be too bright for some listeners, even though there is a dimmer switch
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Ayre 8-Series separates: Ayre provided a greater sense of dimensional fullness
- Vs Leben CS600: Leben coaxes more emotion, because it places more emphasis on tone color and body
Takeaway: The Java Hi-Fi Single Shot is a beautifully designed, all-in-one integrated amplifier that delivers a neutral and transparent sound, suitable for those who appreciate high-fidelity audio and want a streamlined system. Its versatility and excellent built-in components make it a worthwhile investment for a high-quality audio experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The EAR 890 produces 70Wpc in stereo, and can be bridged to 140W in monoblock
- Neutral sound that gets out of the way and lets the user enjoy the music
- Complex and dense music textures are handled with ease, and dynamically demanding passages are sailed through
- Articulate midrange
- Detailed and realistic bass
Product Considerations
- Removing/installing tube cages is difficult and time-consuming
- The loudspeaker binding posts are positioned too close to the output transformers, making it hard to tighten them properly
- Some assembly work appeared amateurish, specifically the use of silicone in various locations, such as fastening chassis wires
- The amplifier can operate quite hot
- May not have as much bass impact compared to solid state amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The EAR 890 monoblocks achieve SET-like definition along with the authority and swagger necessary for most full-size speaker systems, when compared to Cary Audio 300B SET amps
- The EAR 890 is as textured as the top LAMM designs, but with noticeably better neutrality and more power
- The EAR 890 surpassed the deHavilland KE50As with a more articulate midrange, producing more color and separation in the microtones of instruments
Takeaway: The EAR 890 is easy to set up and sounds good with very little tweaking, making it easy to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music. It's a good choice for people who want a tube amp that is both musical and powerful for their home listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers amazing quality of sound and detail
- Bulletproof amplification
- Has a rhythmically soulful sound with a tremendously rich and natural midrange
- The A51's bass is well-defined, extremely textured, and robust
- With 250 watts on tap, the Parasound A51 will power virtually anything
Product Considerations
- Due to its class A/AB design, the A51 does get a bit warm and should be installed in a properly ventilated space and/or rack
- The A51 is large and heavy, and is best moved and/or positioned by two people
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Rotel, the Rotel makes the M&K Sound system slightly bright with a bit of sibilance, while the Parasound is more neutral
- Compared to Acurus A250, the Parasound had tighter bass, which is probably attributed to a better damping factor
Takeaway: The Parasound Halo A51 is a high-performance amplifier with great sound quality, detail, and build quality, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Its ability to deliver power and control to speakers makes it a valuable addition to any high-end audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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