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

  • Classic single-ended triode amplifier that caresses vocals and conveys warmth in vocal recordings
  • Delivers rock-solid image placement and transparency, particularly in the midband
  • Acts like a higher-wattage amplifier than its 18W rating suggests
  • Can drive speakers that aren't absurdly sensitive

Product Considerations

  • Build quality is not as refined as the more expensive Japanese-made Audio Note products
  • Bass can be waffly/uncontrolled
  • Top-end frequency performance can vary
  • May not impress those familiar with higher-end Audio Note amplifiers

Takeaway: The Audio Note Conquest is a single-ended triode amplifier that can provide a lush, sweet midband and is more powerful than its specifications suggest. It offers single-ended triode performance at a more accessible price point.

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.

DAC 0.1x

  • Positioning: Entry-level model in the Audio Note DAC lineup.
  • Description: Features a 1x oversampling technology that avoids digital filtering, which is unique compared to higher models that may include more complex circuitry. Uses a Philips TDA1543 chip and a 6111WA valve output stage, making it ideal for small rooms or budget-conscious users who still want quality tube sound.

DAC 1.1x

  • Positioning: Positioned as a step above the entry-level, offering enhanced performance.
  • Description: Improves upon the 0.1x with an 18-bit AD1865 chip, providing a richer sound experience. Maintains the no-oversampling approach.

DAC 4.1x

  • Positioning: High-end model designed for serious audiophiles.
  • Description: Features advanced components like custom transformers and a sophisticated output stage, providing superior sound clarity and detail.

DAC 5

  • Positioning: Flagship model representing the pinnacle of Audio Note's DAC technology.
  • Description: Features the most advanced digital circuit and highest quality materials, including silver-wound transformers.
See all the brand's products

Read the reviews

[{"title":"Amplifier Shootout - Audio Note vrs. Lamm vrs. Audio Aero vrs. Audio Note - Audio Federation","link":"https://audiofederation.com/blog/2007/02/09/amplifier-shootout-audio-note-vrs-lamm-vrs-audio-aero-vrs-audio-note","source":"Audio Federation","datePublished":"2007"},{"title":"Audio Note Conquest Amp Reviewed - HomeTheaterReview","link":"https://hometheaterreview.com/audio-note-conquest-amp-reviewed","source":"Home Theater Review","datePublished":"2009"}]
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 Audio Note (UK) CONQUEST Mono Power Amplifiers are Pure Class A Parallel Single Ended valve amplifiers that use a pair of the highly regarded 300B triode valves per channel, producing a level of performance that is radically superior to the vast majority of current designs. They have been specifically engineered for sonic performance rather than technical specification, and fulfil all Audio Note (UK) Level 3 criteria:
The Audio Note (UK) CONQUEST Mono Power Amplifiers are Pure Class A Parallel Single Ended valve amplifiers that use a pair of the highly regarded 300B triode valves per channel, producing a level of performance that is radically superior to the vast majority of current designs. They have been specifically engineered for sonic performance rather than technical specification, and fulfil all Audio Note (UK) Level 3 criteria: - Pure Class A operation Zero Negative Feedback Single Ended Output Stage Valve Rectification Directly Heated Triode operation Materials and component quality

The Silver version builds upon the already superb performance of the standard CONQUEST, and features the following component upgrades: - Audio Note (UK) AN-V internal cable Audio Note 1 Watt Tantalum film resistors Audio Note (UK) Copper Foil signal capacitors Audio Note (UK) IHiB Double C-core output transformers

The Silver Signature version builds upon the already superb performance of the standard CONQUEST, and features the following component upgrades: - Audio Note (UK) AN-Vx internal cable Audio Note (UK) 2 Watt Tantalum film resistors Audio Note (UK) Copper Foil signal capacitors Audio Note (UK) SHiB Double C-core output transformers
  • Input Impedance: 100KOhm
  • Input Sensitivity: 250mV / 3.15V (Low Gain) for full output
  • Maximum Output: 18 Watts RMS per channel into 4 or 8 Ohm loads
  • Channel Balance: +/- 0.3dB
  • Valve Complement: 2 x 5U4GB (1 per chassis), 4 x 300B (2 per chassis), 2 x 6SN7 / 6J5 Metal (Low Gain) (1 per chassis)
  • Unit Weight: 20kg (per amplifier)
  • Unit Dimensions: 195 mm (h) x 205mm (w) x 500mm (d) (per amplifier)
  • Mains Input: AC 100-120V / 220-240V 50/60Hz
  • Max. Power Consumption: 200 Watts
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Average Price
$5,001-$10,000
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50
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54
Founded
1998

Our take on the brand

Audio Note UK is one of Europe's largest manufacturers of valve-based audio equipment, designing and producing nearly all components in-house, including transformers and capacitors. The brand has achieved cult status among audiophiles who appreciate its minimalist, non-oversampling approach and its emphasis on musicality over technical specifications.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
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What if you spend a bit more?

SE-300B
10581
10581
/
3
Reviews
Thöress

The SE300B Mono Amplifier is... an all-tube power amplifier employing the famous classic 300B filamentary triode in single-ended operation mode for an output of up to 10 watts into a 4, 8 or 16 ohm loudspeaker load. The 300B power tube is excited by an extraordinary single-stage driver employing two CV2382/EL822 power pentodes operated in triode mode with high idle current and works into a C-core output transformer built in-house to the highest possible standards so as to ensure ultimate performance. The amplifier is built with meticulous hand construction using our proven point-to-point wiring techniques whereas much care has been taken in arranging each aspect of the internal construction to ensure low noise performance, ease of service and the highest reliability for many years to come.

Thöress is a hifi brand known for its unique EHT Topology, which combines single-ended triode tubes with MOSFET output stages in Class-A mode, setting it apart from typical tube amplifiers through its transparency rather than warmth. The brand's products feature a distinctive vintage laboratory aesthetic with German labeling, and include the Phono Enhancer, which lets users adjust equalization curves on-the-fly without conventional tone controls.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Pure sound, free of coloration while retaining musical detail, allows a graceful and effortless listening experience
  • Natural and tangible sound due to accurate reproduction of details, creates a believable presentation
  • Solid and controlled bass performance, unusual for a 300B single-ended triode amplifier
  • Excellent sense of touch and tactile sound, making instruments like plucked strings and bowed violins sound very convincing
  • Wide and deep soundstage with good 'air', providing a transparent and 'hear-through' sound, especially with complex music

Product Considerations

  • Careful matching with partnering equipment is required, especially speakers with high efficiency
  • Relatively low overall gain requires a source with a high output voltage
  • Output transformer links need to be correctly set for speaker impedance, requiring dealer assistance
  • Some reviewers found the top end sounding a bit rolled off before use of appropriate high efficiency speakers and source gain settings
  • Changing the EL803S driver valves requires carefully matched pairs supplied by Thöress

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Shindo Haut-Brion/Corton-Charlemagne, Thöress has more treble extension and transparency, Shindo has better upper-bass/lower-midrange substance and body—and more drive

Takeaway: The Thöress SE-300B offers a supremely musical and detailed listening experience with a focus on accuracy and sonic purity. When paired with the right speakers, this amplifier could be an excellent choice to bring out the best in music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thöress is a hifi brand known for its unique EHT Topology, which combines single-ended triode tubes with MOSFET output stages in Class-A mode, setting it apart from typical tube amplifiers through its transparency rather than warmth. The brand's products feature a distinctive vintage laboratory aesthetic with German labeling, and include the Phono Enhancer, which lets users adjust equalization curves on-the-fly without conventional tone controls.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
SE-300B
page
Product Page
Audio Lybra 300B
10306
10306
/
2
Reviews
Fezz

One of the finest parallel single ended 300B tube amplifier made by Fezz Audio. It provides openness and spatial sound. Powerful, sublime, very involving and uniqe to itself. Fezz Audio Lybra gives you the best sounding experience you can get from the 300B tubes.

Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.
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Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers an incredibly rich, flavorful midrange and a sweet, relaxed treble
  • Has a more sophisticated presentation than the utilitarian bent-metal chassis sported by most integrated tube amps on the market, and the smooth lines of the chassis help the amp stand out from the crowd
  • Has a clever tube cage design with a clear Plexiglass front panel that delivers an unobstructed view of the tubes and is easy to install and remove
  • Is seriously quiet, and there was effectively zero noise through any of the speakers

Product Considerations

  • Can sound wildly different, depending on the impedance of the speakers
  • The four slightly squishy feet underneath the amp may cause stains
  • The power switch is on the rear of the chassis, which may be problematic if installing the amp in a cabinet with limited access
  • Needs a good 20 minutes to warm up, and on initial startup, the amp sounded a bit thin, bright, and constipated, but after one album, it opened right up
  • Limited power output (15Wpc) may not be sufficient for all speakers or listening preferences, especially when wanting to play music very loud

Takeaway: The Fezz Audio Lybra 300B is a well-designed tube amplifier that delivers a rich and flavorful sound. It can bring out the best in your speakers, offering clarity and great sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Audio Lybra 300B
page
Product Page
91E
14999
14999
/
5
Reviews
Western Electric

Double the Performance Trouble-free, noise-free, and double the power of traditional 300B amps. Made possible by patented circuit design. A New Classic We’re proud to continue a legacy of quality, American manufacturing with innovative new features. Ships with Tubes The 91E ships with new production 300Bs, the most popular electron tubes in the world. Made in the USA.

Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • New patented design SCS (source current steering) allows the amplifier to have a fabulous bottom end without affecting the glorious midrange
  • Proprietary noise reduction system eliminates noise that can be inherent in a single-ended design
  • Circuit protects the 300Bs and keeps them in their safe operating range, so there is no chance of damaging the tube or having a shortened life
  • More power from this amp than a traditional 300B, it's the difference in presentation
  • It has Bluetooth, phono stage (moving coil and moving magnet), and wireless remote control

Product Considerations

  • Instructions could be a little clearer about installing the 300Bs
  • More warm-up is needed for each listening session than originally allowed
  • The 91E was designed for operation with Western Electric manufactured 300B electron tubes
  • The brands and specifications of the capacitors, resistors, transformers, internal wires, RCA jacks, switches, and binding posts are not disclosed

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs WE 91A: 91E retains what's best about the early WE 91A—its delicacy, bloom, openness, and tonal magic—and adds modern improvements

Takeaway: The Western Electric 91E is a uniquely designed amplifier providing great sound with modern features like Bluetooth and remote control, pushing what a 300B tube amplifier can achieve. It's a great option for audiophiles wanting to step up from other tube amplifier sounds.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
91E
page
Product Page
Bryce
16000
16000
/
3
Reviews
ampsandsound
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Check on Amazon
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive bass response, dynamics, and power for a 12-Watt single-ended tube amplifier
  • Dense, tactile, and sweet harmonic color with a clean and clear sound
  • Robust build quality with point-to-point hand wiring and exceptional parts
  • Easy biasing with a switch for KT88 to KT120/150 mode
  • Proprietary transformers that contribute to a flatter response and deeper low bass

Product Considerations

  • Careful speaker matching is required, ideally with speakers that have at least 94dB/W efficiency and a stable speaker load
  • Must be turned off for at least 10 minutes, preferably 30, before turning it back on, or the rectifier tube could blow
  • The correct tube type must be selected on the back of the amp, otherwise performance could be lackluster or tubes could be damaged
  • The XLR input involves a slight reduction in detail due to using an input transformer to convert the incoming balanced signal to single-ended

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Bryce eliminates the shortcomings of ampsandsound Nautilus when used as a speaker amplifier, adding dynamics, bass, and an extended top end
  • The Bryce monoblocks are more romantic in execution, with single-ended construction—compared to the push-pull output of ampsandsound Zion

Takeaway: The Bryce Monos are high-quality amplifiers with a surprisingly powerful and detailed sound, providing an engaging listening experience. They are great for audiophiles looking for a tube amp that delivers both emotional connection and technical performance.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Bryce
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

Lybra 300B
6452
/
Released
Fezz
An amplifier designed for the most demanding enthusiasts of 300B tube sound.
Check on Amazon
Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Neutral and transparent sound, more so than the reference amplifier
  • Bass performance is remarkably tight, articulate, solid, and weighty, without typical 'tube character'
  • Very good rhythmic capabilities
  • Maintains control even with inefficient or difficult speakers
  • Threads a fine middle path between a typical transistor sound and a typical tube sound—with an unmistakable midrange charm

Product Considerations

  • Some might find it 'not characterful enough' because it is superbly even-handed
  • With some speakers, the balance can be a little too lean and overly controlled
  • Its low power rating ultimately imposes a limit on how loud one can play, which may not suit everyone

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Ayon Spirit III: The Lybra sounds almost as powerful and robust in the bass while being perhaps even tighter and articulate, and is more highly refined with subtler and airier treble
  • Vs Trafomatic tube amps and MP's Jadis amplifiers: The Lybra offers something different, it's not as voluptuous, rich, and relaxed as the Trafomatic

Takeaway: The Fezz Lybra is a neutral and controlled amplifier that offers a balanced sound without sounding like a typical tube amp, providing articulate bass and a charming midrange. It could be worth buying if you like very good sound, especially if you have efficient speakers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Lybra 300B
Page
Product Page
Little Nugget
6111
/
Released
ampsandsound
The return of the ST15 is not of nostalgia but of evolution. The ST15 was one of ampsandsound's most popular amps but was retired to give space for higher power designs. Over the years, we have grown to fully embrace metal chassis amps that are brutalist in design and overwhelming in structural rigidity. Our customers have come to love the laboratory grade implementation of our work and its intended long lifecycle. The new Stereo 17 was built with our 11gage steel plate chassis providing a compact and extraordinarily solid amp (39lbs). Its sheer density and warn EL84 sound beckoned the name "little nugget".
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ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Metal chassis provides better ergonomics and structural integrity compared to the previous wood chassis
  • Robust power supply prevents compression, even with demanding speakers
  • Has full bandwidth down into the low 20s without problem
  • Warm lush midrange and the right 3d spatial cues up top
  • Fast, accurate, proportionate sound that is warm but not dry or analytical

Product Considerations

  • The reviewer mentioned they are going to work on adding name badges to the next versions

Takeaway: The amplifier is great sounding with a robust power supply. Its proportionate and warm sound makes it ideal for nearfield listening.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Little Nugget
Page
Product Page
Montille CV391
7995
/
Released
Shindo
Check on Amazon
Shindo Laboratory is distinguished by its dual mono preamplifier designs, where each channel has its own chassis, and its field coil speaker systems that achieve high sensitivity ratings of 96-100dB/W/m. The brand's products feature proprietary circuit designs and undergo continuous refinement during production, with notable examples being their Giscours preamplifier and Latour/Lafite speaker systems that deliver frequency responses from as low as 20Hz up to 20,000Hz.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Creates an extraordinarily vivid sound
  • Has the seeming ability to turn up the contrast knob on everything passed through it
  • Offers great color and body

Product Considerations

  • When playing very loud passages at extravagant volume levels, it clipped less elegantly
  • Bass output was just a bit excessive

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Surpasses the Haut-Brion in terms of color saturation
  • The Haut-Brion has a somewhat better sense of scale overall, is capable of greater delicacy when needed, and sounded a shade righter, timbrally, on trumpets and singing voices
  • The Haut-Brion offered the more well-balanced bass, relative to the volume of sound in the rest of the audible range—the Haut's bass was also drier and a little more detailed

Takeaway: The Shindo Montille CV 391 is a hand-wired tube amp that delivers vivid and colorful sound, making music come alive. It's a great match for less sensitive speakers and offers a unique listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Shindo Laboratory is distinguished by its dual mono preamplifier designs, where each channel has its own chassis, and its field coil speaker systems that achieve high sensitivity ratings of 96-100dB/W/m. The brand's products feature proprietary circuit designs and undergo continuous refinement during production, with notable examples being their Giscours preamplifier and Latour/Lafite speaker systems that deliver frequency responses from as low as 20Hz up to 20,000Hz.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Montille CV391
Page
Product Page
Rockwell
6097
/
Released
2021
ampsandsound
The ampsandsound Rockwell brings the legendary Direct Heated Triode sound to personal audio. We chose the 6B4G as it stand tall next to other top shelf triodes while still being accessible in NOS form. Combining a single gain stage, zero feedback, and careful attention to grounding techniques, we can use a the Large 6B4G Triode with headphones without hum or noise.
Check on Amazon
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a holographic soundstage and exceptional mid-range clarity, creating a visceral and nuanced listening experience
  • Offers great tonal accuracy and mid-range performance, especially with acoustic and vocal-heavy music
  • The amplifier is powerful enough to drive speakers and the reviewer's headphones with ease
  • Can be re-tubed with entirely NOS (New Old Stock) tubes for under $300, making it a bargain to maintain compared to other amplifiers
  • Has multiple output impedances allowing matching to pretty much any headphone

Product Considerations

  • Direct Heated Triodes are naturally more noisy than indirectly heated tubes
  • Users with highly sensitive headphones (north of 100dB/mW efficient), like Utopia or Stellia, might experience some background noise
  • Bass presentation focuses on detail and texture rather than thick, chest-thumping slam
  • Caution should be used when lifting it, as it is much denser than it appears

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ampsandsound Nautilus: The Rockwell is more delicate and nuanced, with more space and air, whereas the Nautilus produces greater slam and is more tonally dense
  • Vs ampsandsound Kenzie Ovation: There are similarities in tone and vocal rendering, but the Rockwell is more powerful, creating dynamics that explode
  • Vs ampsandsound Bigger Ben: The Rockwell provides more low-end detail, while the Bigger Ben reaches slightly lower with more slam

Takeaway: The Rockwell is a seductive and fun amplifier that is worth owning, especially for those who appreciate the classic American hifi sound. It offers a remarkable listening experience and the ability to use affordable NOS tubes.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Rockwell
Page
Product Page
AMP-23R
6250
/
Released
2021
Enleum
Enleum was launched as a new brand with the AMP-23R. While our legacy AMP-13R had already been praised all around the world for its performance and unique design, we pushed the boundaries to create the AMP-23R with a new circuit that truly enhances the existing performance. We have drastically improved the PCB circuit board design, chosen new internal components and upgraded our JET2 Bias design. And the reviews and awards are unanimous. The AMP-23R's physical size and footprint may be compact, but with the all new chassis and thermal heatsink design, we've launched a product that's fit for the next generation reference compact amplifier.
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Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Addictive sound signature, unlike any other amp, with otherworldly instrument and voice reproduction
  • Delivers serious magic with Fleetwood Deville and Klipsch Heritage speakers, revealing obscure details and creating a massive soundstage
  • Dynamics for days
  • Combines the qualities of a nice SET amp without the downsides, like noise or tube replacement
  • Exceptional build quality and design with high-quality parts
  • Only has two RCA inputs, no XLR balanced connections

Product Considerations

  • Heavy speaker cables can cause the amp to tilt
  • The volume dial functions as a gain dial, which may be different than what some users are accustomed to
  • May not be suitable for hard-to-drive speakers in the 85db range that dip into 2–4 ohms

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The AMP23R offers more texture, layering, mid-bass, and vocal presence than Nagra INT
  • The AMP23R is more organic, ethereal, and dynamic than Kinki Studio EXM1
  • It sounds better than the Vinnie Rossi L2iSE, so long as the speakers are easy to drive
  • The Enleum has more delicacy and finesse than Pass Labs and Cary Audio
  • The AMP23R stacks up with the finest gear such as ampsandsound Bryce monoblocks
  • Pass Labs First Watt SIT-3 offers a bit more organic, warmer presentation

Takeaway: The Enleum AMP-23R is a small but mighty integrated amplifier with a unique and addictive sound signature, and it is built with high-quality components. It's a great choice for those with sensitive speakers looking for a reference-quality system in a compact package.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
AMP-23R
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

  • Classic single-ended triode amplifier that caresses vocals and conveys warmth in vocal recordings
  • Delivers rock-solid image placement and transparency, particularly in the midband
  • Acts like a higher-wattage amplifier than its 18W rating suggests
  • Can drive speakers that aren't absurdly sensitive

Product Considerations

  • Build quality is not as refined as the more expensive Japanese-made Audio Note products
  • Bass can be waffly/uncontrolled
  • Top-end frequency performance can vary
  • May not impress those familiar with higher-end Audio Note amplifiers

Takeaway: The Audio Note Conquest is a single-ended triode amplifier that can provide a lush, sweet midband and is more powerful than its specifications suggest. It offers single-ended triode performance at a more accessible price point.

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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