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
- Well-built and weighs almost 20 pounds
- It produces a neutral and transparent sound with outstanding clarity, attention to detail, and excellent instrument separation
- Operates silently without any hum or noise and remains only slightly warm even after hours of use
Product Considerations
- The power button could be more solid
- The pictures on the website do not do it justice
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Arkham SA-20—the NP-1 has better sound quality, as it was easier to detect acoustics and details in the music being played
Takeaway: The NP-1 is a great amplifier that brings high-end audio to a setup with modern technology and excellent sound. It is a durable and reliable choice for anyone looking for an amplifier that will last a long time.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
NP1
reviews
[{"title":"NP1 Power Amplifier: Audio By Van Alstine - Neutral & Transparent","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TkwEKzV2giU","source":"Potato Fi Reviews","datePublished":"2025"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Power output: 55 watts per channel into 8Ω, 85 watts per channel into 4Ω
- Inputs: One line-level stereo input on gold-plated RCA jacks
- Input impedance: 50kΩ
- Maximum source impedance: 1kΩ
- Amplifier gain: 26.3dB
- Dimensions: 17" wide, 12" deep, 3.5" high
- Shipping weight: 20 pounds
Description
The NP1 Power Amplifier is the first stereo power amplifier to use Audio by Van Alstine's class-defining Advanced Nested Architecture (ANA). The NP1 Power Amplifier oozes with the transparency, dynamic range, linearity, and pure music for which Audio by Van Alstine is known. Listen to all of your recordings again and you will hear acoustic space and musical nuance in a much more real and involving way. The cost is lower and the performance much higher than you have any right to expect.
The NP1 Power Amplifier oozes with the transparency, dynamic range, linearity, and pure music for which Audio by Van Alstine is known. Listen to all of your recordings again and you will hear acoustic space and musical nuance in a much more real and involving way. The cost is lower and the performance much higher than you have any right to expect.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
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:
- They design and assemble their products in the US, prioritizing reliability and longevity, as reflected in their philosophy that the best warranty is the one you never have to use.
- They emphasize straightforward engineering, eschewing exotic parts, fancy cables, and magical properties in favor of well-executed balanced/differential circuit designs.
- Audio by Van Alstine has cultivated a direct-to-consumer sales model from its inception, allowing them to offer high-value products at prices more accessible to a wider range of audiophiles.
Select products
Select product comparisons
DVA M225 Mono Block Solid State Amplifier
- Positioning: Entry-level option designed for compact setups and moderate room sizes.
- Description: Features a straightforward solid state design that delivers clean power output and efficiency for smaller environments. Compared to the higher-powered DVA M750 and control-focused DEMO CA1, its lower wattage and simpler circuitry make it ideal for buyers with limited budgets and modest sonic goals.
DVA M750 Monoblock Power Amplifier
- Positioning: Mid-range amplifier offering increased power for larger rooms.
- Description: Uses advanced circuitry to provide higher wattage and refined sonic performance, making it more appropriate for users needing a larger soundstage. In contrast to the entry-level solid state option and the control amplifier's added functionality, its focus is on pure power.
DEMO CA1 Control Amplifier
- Positioning: Versatile control amplifier suited for integrated system setups.
- Description: Features a dedicated control section that simplifies input management and precise volume control, catering to users who value flexibility in connectivity and room configuration. When compared to the power amps that focus solely on signal amplification and the preamplifiers with tonal shaping features, it provides an accessible balance of function and cost.
FET Valve CFR Preamplifier
- Positioning: High-end preamplifier that merges FET and valve technologies for a balanced sound.
- Description: Offers a unique blend of solid-state and tube characteristics that appeals to listeners aiming for a vintage tone with modern clarity in small to medium setups. Relative to the simpler power and control amplifiers, its advanced tone shaping and refined circuitry give it an edge for buyers seeking technical sophistication.
Vision RB Preamplifier
- Positioning: Flagship preamplifier delivering the most advanced technical performance in the lineup.
- Description: Incorporates state-of-the-art circuitry and premium components to ensure precise signal control and exceptional sound purity, making it suitable for large, demanding environments. When set against the FET Valve CFR and other amplifiers, its enhanced processing and feature set place it at the highest investment level.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
26
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Brand Popularity
206
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
Our take on the brand
Audio by Van Alstine is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand known for its minimalist design philosophy and unique Single Ended Transistor amplifiers that operate in Class A at normal listening levels and switch to Class AB for higher power needs. The company has a long history of modifying classic audio equipment like Dynaco and Hafler, and continues to design and build their USA-made amplifiers with balanced and differential circuit designs that deliver excellent soundstaging at more accessible prices than comparable equipment.
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Audio by Van Alstine
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What if you spend more?
Audio by Van Alstine
M750
2799
2799
/
4
Reviews
The DVA M750 monoblock power amplifier is a stunningly musical high-fidelity amplifier that is designed to accurately preserve all of the energy of a live listening experience.
Audio by Van Alstine is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand known for its minimalist design philosophy and unique Single Ended Transistor amplifiers that operate in Class A at normal listening levels and switch to Class AB for higher power needs. The company has a long history of modifying classic audio equipment like Dynaco and Hafler, and continues to design and build their USA-made amplifiers with balanced and differential circuit designs that deliver excellent soundstaging at more accessible prices than comparable equipment.
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Product Strengths
- Impressive clarity, tighter bass, and more pinpoint accuracy of instruments in the soundstage compared to the SET 600
- Great dynamic range, definition, and transparency, while maintaining the nuances and details of the original music recording
- Designed to run cooler and last longer
- Relative bargain for its performance level
- Always sounded musical, a presentation which engaged the listener with music rather than calling attention to the gear
Product Considerations
- A pair of amplifiers can provide enough power to damage almost any speaker system if carelessly used
- Tone and timbre were not as rich and voluptuous as the reviewer tends to prefer, there seemed to be less meat on the bone
- One of the five-way speaker binding posts spun when tightening spades, but there were no electrical or other performance issues from that
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Audio by Van Alstine SET 600, the DVA M750 has more power, a quieter presence, more clarity, tighter bass, and even more pinpoint accuracy of instruments in the soundstage
- Compared to Pass Labs XA30.8, the M750s are slightly more intense sounding
Takeaway: The DVA M750 Monoblock is a powerful amplifier with finesse and a large, quiet soundstage presented with exceptional clarity. It delivers a compelling and engaging musical experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio by Van Alstine is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand known for its minimalist design philosophy and unique Single Ended Transistor amplifiers that operate in Class A at normal listening levels and switch to Class AB for higher power needs. The company has a long history of modifying classic audio equipment like Dynaco and Hafler, and continues to design and build their USA-made amplifiers with balanced and differential circuit designs that deliver excellent soundstaging at more accessible prices than comparable equipment.
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NAD
M23
3749
3749
/
13
Reviews
Building on NAD’s long tradition of identifying and developing cutting-edge amplification technology, the M23 HybridDigital Stereo Power Amplifier features Purifi Audio’s Eigentakt™ design, a once-in-a-decade innovation that virtually eliminates harmonic and intermodulation distortion. Noise is inaudible, for a completely black background and exquisite micro-detail. Conservatively rated at 2x200W continuous into 8 ohms and 2x380W into 4 ohms, the M23 can deliver live performance levels through any loudspeaker. With its unique combination of features, performance, and value, the M23 represents the new benchmark for the stereo power amplifier.
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- The M23's build quality feels solid and elegant, with impressive small design details
- The sound is striking in its purity and clarity
- It offers up to three levels of gain, switchable on the back panel, to best fit the system
- It provides a clear sound without sounding hard
- It features Purifi Eigentakt Class D amplification, which provides virtually unmeasurable distortion levels
Product Considerations
- The bass is clean but may be perceived as a little on the cool side and not as 'wompy-sounding'
- The M23 is not a forgiving amplifier that makes everything sound sweet and wonderful—it's not for those seeking a soft and mellow sound
- Bridging with speakers below 5 or 6 ohms is not recommended, as the amp will current limit and potentially shut down
- The reviewer found ergonomical challenges using fancy speaker cables in bridged mode due to wide terminal spacing
- The capacitive touch power button can accidentally trigger
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bel Canto C6i: The M23 offered a layer of refinement and better reproduction of the recording space
- Vs Pass XA25: The M23 had more transparent sound and detail, especially in the treble and upper mids, but lacked the organic quality of the XA25
- Vs HiFi Rose RS 520: The M23 sounded cleaner and had better separation/depth, HiFi Rose seemed to have an EQ built-in, emphasizing midrange and bass
- Vs NAD C298: The M23 is more neutral, deals with decay more naturally, and has better casework, making it look high-end
- Vs Anthem M1 monoblock amplifiers: The M23 was slightly more transparent throughout the entire frequency range
- Vs Bryston 4B 3: The Bryston had more grunt but the M23 is more neutral
Takeaway: The NAD M23 is a powerful and precise amplifier that delivers clean and clear sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want to hear their music as accurately as possible. It is especially well-suited for those looking to build a high-end system around a quality preamp or DAC.
Video review
Our take on the brand
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
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Parasound
Halo A52+
4199
4199
/
9
Reviews
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers ample, clean, and dynamic power to all channels, ensuring speakers reach their full potential
- Designed by John Curl, featuring Class A/AB circuitry for a balance of warmth, richness, efficiency, and punch
- Pleasing sound for dialogue and music, with very high-quality and detail
- Versatile, suitable for both movies and music, with a low noise floor for quiet passages and great transparency—that doesn't color the sound
- Built to last, with high-quality internal components
- Signal-sensing power-on mode can be fussy and may require adjustment
Product Considerations
- Super heavy and large, potentially requiring rearranging a system or dedicated rack space
- Only available in anodized black
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The A52 Plus has bigger parts and bigger power than the Outlaw Model 5000, including balanced XLR connections
- A52 Plus is the 'teenager' compared to the elder Parasound A51
- Parasound A52+ sounds better, is more accurate, and more powerful than the Denon receiver's amplifier section
Takeaway: The Parasound A52+ Halo is a versatile and powerful amplifier that delivers clean, dynamic sound for both home theater and music systems, with a build quality designed to last. This is a worthy investment for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who seek high-quality audio performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
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Orchard Audio
Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DMC 2.5
4249
4249
/
16
Reviews
This amplifier has an independent power supply for each channel and 87,200uF (43,600 per channel) of added capacitance on the power supply rails. The Starkrimson® Stereo Ultra DMC offers phenomenal sonic performance. Its advanced design and meticulous construction ensure exceptional clarity, power, and dynamic range. Experience the nuances of your favorite recordings with crystal clear detail and realism. A must-have for discerning audiophiles, and music lovers/enthusiasts seeking to elevate their musical experience.
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
- Exceptionally transparent sound output quality
- Exceptionally powerful, capable of outputting 500W into a 4-Ohm load
- Delivers a remarkably clean, transparent sound with very little noise or distortion
- The amplifier's ability to reproduce bass is awe-inspiring and delivers deep, powerful bass without distortion
- Runs cool and weighs very little for its sound output, making it easy to move around
Product Considerations
- Options can be a little pricy, such as the 12v trigger and RCA inputs
- The Starkrimson Stereo Ultra may lead to further system upgrades
- Depending on your sources, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra will play exactly what you feed it, good or bad, and if your source components are slow, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra will not speed them up
- Power on only after all connections are properly made, including the power cord, analog inputs, and speaker outputs, and wait five minutes after powering it off before removing any of the connections
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Krell S550i integrated amp, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra showed a much faster and finer resolution of the upper frequencies of the human voice and a far greater ability to play more of the microdetails of a recording
Takeaway: The Starkrimson amplifier is well-built and provides a level of speed and transparency to hifi music that makes listening to music very fun. Its GaN modules can be upgraded and it is available in several configurations.
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.
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What competes at this price?
Audio by Van Alstine
DVA M225
1699
/
Released
2021
The DVA M225 monoblock power amplifier is a stunningly musical high-fidelity amplifier that is designed to accurately preserve all of the energy of a live listening experience. The DVA M225 is a compact and powerful solid state amplifier. It's rated at 225 watts into 8 ohms and over 300 watts into 4 ohms. It is comfortably paired with any speaker 4 ohms and up, including speakers demanding a LOT of power.
Audio by Van Alstine is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand known for its minimalist design philosophy and unique Single Ended Transistor amplifiers that operate in Class A at normal listening levels and switch to Class AB for higher power needs. The company has a long history of modifying classic audio equipment like Dynaco and Hafler, and continues to design and build their USA-made amplifiers with balanced and differential circuit designs that deliver excellent soundstaging at more accessible prices than comparable equipment.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Achieves detail without a hifi edge that can be initially exciting and then become irritating
- Develops a realistic soundstage that enables the listener to feel he is out for the evening at his favorite venue
- Images are well-defined and three-dimensional
- Sound quality is excellent, with some of the best soundstaging ever heard
- Operates as Class A amps at normal listening levels, and run relatively cool even at high playback
Product Considerations
- Only accepts balanced input on a three-pin XLR connection
- If the preamp only has RCA output jacks, a DVA R2X unbalanced-to-balanced converter will be needed
Takeaway: The DVA M225 offers superb performance, delivering a realistic soundstage with well-defined images. It's a great choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio by Van Alstine is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand known for its minimalist design philosophy and unique Single Ended Transistor amplifiers that operate in Class A at normal listening levels and switch to Class AB for higher power needs. The company has a long history of modifying classic audio equipment like Dynaco and Hafler, and continues to design and build their USA-made amplifiers with balanced and differential circuit designs that deliver excellent soundstaging at more accessible prices than comparable equipment.
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Galion
TS A75
1495
/
Released
2024
The performance of this amplifier is so good that you will question whether the significantly more expensive amplifier you are currently shopping for is truly better than this one; for those who prefer XLR, the TS A75 comes with both XLR and RCA inputs.
Galion Audio designs amplifiers with truly balanced architecture and tube-like sound characteristics, featuring unique controls for feedback levels and tone adjustments that avoid typical tonal discoloration. Their amplifiers are distinguished by robust power supplies with dual toroidal transformers and the ability to switch between Class A and Class AB modes, which is rare in their price range.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a tube-like sound, with a warm and musical presentation
- Robust power supply with substantial capacitance (200,000 microfarads) provides good bass control and dynamics
- Transparent and precise sound, with a wide and deep soundstage
- Balanced design with both RCA and XLR inputs, the latter offering a cleaner and more dynamic sound
- Offers excellent value, outperforming other amplifiers in a similar price range
Product Considerations
- Requires a pre-amplifier to control volume
- May exhibit slight transformer noise when close to the unit
- Does not have pop control, requiring caution when plugging/unplugging connections
- Some reviewers found the logo placement slightly off-center and the blue LED power light too bright
- Bass control is not as punchy or defined for some tastes, leaning towards a tube-like bass delivery
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The TSA-75 has a different, more flavorful sound signature compared to the Orchard Audio's neutral sound
- The TSA-75 provides superior micro detail, cleanliness, clarity, and stereo imaging, compared to Schiit Audio Vidar 2
- Performance is head-to-head with the Denafrips Thalo, depending on sound preference—the more balanced, snappy presentation of the Thalo, or the more V-shaped sound with greater depth and soundstage of the TSA-75
- The TSA-75 has a distinct sound signature, unlike Emotiva amps
- The TSA-75 outperforms the McIntosh MC275 Mark VI in audiophile performance
Takeaway: The Galion Audio TS A75 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a warm, tube-like sound with good bass and a wide soundstage. It provides excellent value and is a great choice for those looking for a musical and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Galion Audio designs amplifiers with truly balanced architecture and tube-like sound characteristics, featuring unique controls for feedback levels and tone adjustments that avoid typical tonal discoloration. Their amplifiers are distinguished by robust power supplies with dual toroidal transformers and the ability to switch between Class A and Class AB modes, which is rare in their price range.
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Schiit
Tyr
1399
/
Released
2022
Tyr is a monstrous, old-skool, crazy heavy, over-the-top mono speaker amplifier. It uses the best of today's and yesterday's technologies to create something totally unique—and It has enough power to run almost anything.
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Robust, effortless power with excellent control makes it easy to drive all speakers with authority and deliver a satisfying listening experience.
- Balanced and neutral sound, with a solid low end that prevents it from sounding dull or anemic, while also ensuring it is not too aggressive to cause listening fatigue.
- Excellent timing makes music engaging and foot-tapping, and is particularly impressive with genres such as R&B and soundtracks.
- Built in the USA, it has a 5 year warranty and 15 day satisfaction guarantee
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for listeners seeking a romantic, sweet, and smooth midrange, or those who prefer a very lively sound.
- The amp required careful system matching to achieve its full potential, particularly needing a high-end preamp to unlock greater refinement and resolution.
- Bass performance might be seriously challenged by more modern amplifiers.
- There is a slight differential in gain
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Emotiva A1s, the Tyr has more bass, more clarity in the bass, and is less veiled overall
- Reminiscent of McIntosh 7270—the Tyr gives off similar 'Mac vibes'.
Takeaway:
The Schiit Tyr monoblocks deliver a lot of power and control, making music sound good with a balanced and neutral style. It's a great option for an amplifier that can handle almost any speaker and is versatile.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
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Topping
DX9
1299
/
Released
2023
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Breathtaking design with curved corners, symmetrical front faceplate, and a glass component revealing internal circuitry
- Powerful headphone amplifier capable of outputting up to 10W at 16Ω and 7W at 32Ω
- Good sound quality, described as clean, detailed, and punchy, with a balanced tonal presentation
- CNC machined aluminum remote control with rubber buttons
- Multiple inputs and outputs, including 6.35mm, 4.4mm, and 4-pin XLR outputs on the front, and optical, coaxial, AES, IIS, USB, and Bluetooth on the back, with RCA and XLR outputs for lineout and preamplifier lineouts
Product Considerations
- Glass top panel gets hotter than the aluminum housing
- The glass panel is a fingerprint magnet and requires cleaning regularly
- No analog line-in to pair the amplifier with 3rd party DACs
- No streaming capability via WiFi or LAN
- Some menu navigation can be cumbersome, requiring cycling through options rather than direct selection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Topping A90 and D90 stack, the DX9 has similar inputs, outputs and power, but the stack is more versatile, as the amp and DAC can be used separately— the DX9 has additional coaxial and optical inputs, and the sound is somewhat similar
- Compared to the HIFIMAN EF400, the DX9 has more inputs/outputs and more power, but the EF400 sounds warmer
- Compared to the Topping D90SE, the DX9 sounds more fun, its bass and midrange has more energy and oomph, but the D90SE is more transparent, though ultimately quite flat
- Compared to the AURALiC Altair G2.1, the DX9 sounds cleaner and better separated, with a small reduction in digital hash
Takeaway: The Topping DX9 is a beautiful and powerful all-in-one DAC/amp that offers a clean and detailed sound, making it suitable for both headphone and speaker setups. Its versatility and attractive design make it a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality audio solution.
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.
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Peachtree
GaN 1
1499
/
Released
2022
The GaN 1 is a 200 watt-per-channel power amplifier designed to be the sole interface between your variable output digital audio device, like a Bluesound NODE, and your speakers. The GaN 1 is a simple, pure and cost-effective audio solution. Connect the GaN 1 to a streamer and a pair of speakers. That's it...no DAC, no preamp and no input switching. The signal path from the music to your speakers is remarkably short and free from artifacts.
Peachtree Audio, a popular entry-level hifi brand, delivers Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their amplifiers, making Class D sound more like Class A with a richer midrange.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- GANFET transistors switch faster, are more heat resistant, and produce less distortion than MOSFET transistors
- A monstrous 400-watt regulated power supply
- Designed to work specifically with a source with a variable output, be it a silver disc-spinning device or one of today's best yet affordable HD music streamers
- Offers a level of audiophile performance that well exceeds any reasonable expectations that come with the amp's modest price tag
- Offers a super clean minimal setup when paired with the Bluesound Node
Product Considerations
- Has only one digital coaxial input, limiting connectivity options and expansion
- Lacks volume indication on the unit itself, requiring reliance on the source's volume control
- Some reviewers noticed a high-pitched noise coming from early prototypes, which was later fixed by Peachtree
- Isn't the type of amp that makes a poorly recorded song sound better
- Is a non-standard size
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Power Node: Setup has a much more substantial mid-range, better low-end control, and ever so slightly better speed with rhythmic transient attack
- Vs NAD M10 V2: Is the more dynamically relaxed
- Vs Hegel H190: Reviewers actually preferred the more forward presentation of midrange
Takeaway: The GAN1 is a forward-thinking piece of tech that prioritizes simplicity and sound quality for those who want to just stream music. It provides outstanding value and impressive performance, especially for those looking for a minimalist, high-fidelity system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Peachtree Audio, a popular entry-level hifi brand, delivers Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their amplifiers, making Class D sound more like Class A with a richer midrange.
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