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
- One of the sweetest, warmest, most holographic amplifiers, with a beautiful and natural sound
- Capable of placing the music in the room, causing the speakers to vanish completely
- Direct-heated triodes provide 45W each of pure Class A power
Product Considerations
- Neither low impedances nor big appetites in speakers are ideal, limiting speaker choices
- Overdriving can lead to lumpy bass and soft treble
- Looks rather ordinary
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The reviewer was reminded of the EAR Yoshino XXXB through the WATT/Puppy
Takeaway: The Audio Note Gaku-On is an amplifier that has a very nice sound if used within its limits. The sound quality is impressive and could bring great enjoyment.
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
Gaku-On
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
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Input Impedance: 2.4 KOhm, XLR / Balanced line level
- Maximum Output: 45 Watts (approx.) per channel into 4 or 8 Ohm loads
- Channel Balance: +/- 0.3dB
- Valve Complement: 4 x 5R4WGB (2 per chassis), 4 x 211/VT4-C (2 per chassis), 2 x VT25/10Y (1 per chassis)
- Unit Weight: 27.5 kg (per amplifier)
- Unit Dimensions: 305 (h) x 305mm (w) x 640mm (d) (per amplifier)
- Mains Input: AC 100-120V / 220-240V 50/60Hz
- Max. Power Consumption: 200 Watts
Description
The Audio Note (UK) GAKU-ON Mono Power Amplifiers are Pure Class A Parallel Single Ended valve amplifiers that use a pair of the highly regarded 211 / VT4-C triode valves per chassis, producing a level of performance that is radically superior to the vast majority of current designs.
The Audio Note (UK) GAKU-ON Mono Power Amplifiers are Pure Class A Parallel Single Ended valve amplifiers that use a pair of the highly regarded 211 / VT4-C triode valves per chassis, producing a level of performance that is radically superior to the vast majority of current designs. The GAKU-ON represent the pinnacle of our mono amplifier range, and no expense has been spared in their design or production. The finest components are used, including a host of Black Gate capacitors, our own Audio Note (UK) silver foil capacitors and Tantalum resistors, silver wire and the finest core materials for all transformers, and silver signal wire throughout the circuit. They have been specifically engineered for sonic performance rather than technical specification, and fulfil all Audio Note (UK) Level 5 criteria: - Pure Class A operation Zero Negative Feedback Single Ended Output Stage Valve Rectification Directly Heated Triode operation Finest Materials and component quality
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:
- Audio Note prioritizes musicality above technical specifications, focusing on creating components that sound like real music—regardless of measurements.
- Audio Note designs components with long lifespans, avoiding frequent model iterations and focusing on component quality and core design principles, resulting in products that remain relevant for decades.
- They often use tube rectification and valve amplification and are Single Ended Output Stage, directly Heated Triode operation.
- Their CD players often use a Philips CD Pro 2LF CD mechanism that has been custom modified and improved in-house, focusing on performance rather than technical specs, and often avoid oversampling and digital filtering.
Select products
Select product comparisons
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.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
33
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
73
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
54
Founding Year
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.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
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What if you spend more?
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Half-width size is desirable for storage, as two units can fit side-by-side on a typical hifi shelf
- Strong dynamic profile, dimensionality, and power for most performance speakers on the market
- Bass is much more controlled, and leading edges are significantly more defined, compared to the previous version
- Vocals feel lifelike and tangible
- Possesses a nice overall tone and a well executed lack of dryness or 'thin' character
Product Considerations
- A single Aegir 2 box delivers audiophile fun with efficient setups, but shines best in a dual mono two amp situation
- The top of the unit does heat up slightly with use
- May not be the perfect choice for high demand electrostatics
- Requires a balanced connection from the pre amp to bring out the best from the setup
- Takes a little longer to boot up compared to the original Aegir
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Schiit Vidar: The Aegir 2 has a sound that is more rich and thick, but still defined
- Vs Aegir G1 (original): The Aegir 2 has increased dynamics and low end control compared to the original
Takeaway: The Schiit Audio Aegir 2 is a fun power amplifier that offers a strong dynamic profile and nice overall tone. It brings dimensionality and sufficient power for most performance speakers, making it an enjoyable addition to any audiophile setup.
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
LA90
799
799
/
10
Reviews
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Topping
LA90 (Discrete)
799
799
/
9
Reviews
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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Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
- Delivers a neutral presentation overall
- Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
- The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
- Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
- Only has a single line-level RCA-style input
Product Considerations
- Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
- High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
- Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
- Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage
Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Emotiva is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that enables audiophiles to customize their amplifier configurations through a modular "Build Your Own" approach, using their Differential Reference design to minimize noise and distortion.
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What competes at this price?
Fosi
HD-A1
219
/
Released
RMS 50watts x 2(8 ohms, 20 Hz - 20 kHz, 0.02% THD) for 2-16ohm speakers. Similar to the HDAM circuit, adopts TOSHIBA 2SA1943 *2 and 2SC5200 as amplifier output chip to get HI-FI sound quality; Home HiFi amplifier, Sturdy, Aluminum enclosed amp makes it perfect for projects and DIY audio applications.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very well-built and feels solid and heavy for its size
- Uses high-quality components such as Japanese Alps potentiometer, Omron relay, Nover Gold Audio capacitors, and Toshiba transistors
- Has a toroidal transformer that is considered overkill for its power output, which is a positive thing
- Has a warm sound signature, sometimes described as tube-like
Product Considerations
- Lacks a volume indicator on the knob
- Only has one set of RCA inputs, which may limit connectivity for some users
- Some reviewers found the 50 watts per channel to be lacking punch with certain speakers
- Has no remote, digital inputs, streaming capabilities, or phono stage
- The gold color of the chassis may not appeal to everyone
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Fosi Audio HD-A1 is slightly cleaner with a lower noise floor than the Emotiva A300, but lacks the punch
- Paired with infinity intermezzo 4.1 T speakers, the Fosi Audio HD-A1 sounds better than the Marantz nr1200 powering Sony SSCS5 speakers
- The Fosi Audio HD-A1 has a similar clean, powerful class A/B signature as the Emotiva A300, but with a touch of warmth
Takeaway: The Fosi Audio HD-A1 is a compact and powerful amplifier with high-quality components and a warm sound. It could be a great entry point into hifi audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Parasound
ZC ZAmp V0.3
299
/
Released
2023
The Parasound ZAmp v3 is a compact and versatile stereo amplifier, offering high-quality amplification in a space-saving design. With 45 watts per channel at 8 ohms, the ZAmp v3 is perfect for small audio setups, custom installations, and multi-room systems. Its reliable performance and efficient operation make it a go-to choice for both home and commercial environments.
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
- Compact size and respectable heft make it suitable for desktops and small spaces
- Clean and clear sound with good detail retrieval, leaning slightly towards warm, but not overly so
- Enough power to drive moderately sensitive speakers well, especially in nearfield setups
- Features a headphone jack that shunts power from speaker outputs, and gain adjustments for customized sound
- Offers versatile connections for multi-room setups, including power triggers and loop outs
Product Considerations
- Treble presentation is on the forward side of neutral, with a little extra energy, which may not suit all preferences
- Speaker terminals are close together, which may cause issues with shorting if using spades or thick bare wire
- Not ideal for very high efficiency speakers due to a potentially audible noise floor
- May lack dynamic punch with low sensitivity speakers in larger listening spaces
Takeaway: The Parasound ZoneAmp V3 is a well-built and compact amplifier that offers a clean and detailed sound, suitable for desktop or small room use. Its versatile features and surprising sound quality make it a great option for those seeking a no-nonsense amplifier.
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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Burson
Funk
491
/
Released
2021
Hi-Fi companies are spoiling headphone enthusiasts with a wide range of choices, but they often overlook near-field audiophiles who listen to speakers in small studios or from their desktops. Instead, near-field audiophiles are left with subpar Class-D amps or active speakers. Alternatively, they have to settle for larger Class-AB amps that disrupt the aesthetic of their setups. The Burson Funk breaks that rule by offering a combination of exceptional performance and a design that fits seamlessly into any living space.
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality, especially in the midrange, leads to vivid and well-formed vocals
- Versatile, it works well with both efficient headphones/IEMs and moderately powered speakers
- Compact design and good build quality, with the chassis acting as a heatsink
- Ability to roll op amps allows users to customize the sound signature
- Ample power for most headphones and nearfield speaker setups
- Only one RCA input, which may be limiting for some users
Product Considerations
- Speaker amplifier power (35-45W) might be insufficient for power-hungry speakers or larger rooms
- The base model op amps are sonically inferior to upgrade options
- Mild turn-off thump present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Funk has a narrower but deeper soundstage with better imaging and layering than the Arylic A08 Pro
- The Funk has superior imaging, but less potential power output depending on the Arylic's power supply than the Arylic A07/A08 Pro
- The Funk is preferred for desktop speaker setups with Vivid opamps when compared to Schiit Aegir
Takeaway: The Burson Funk is a solid choice for people wanting good sound from both their headphones and speakers in a single, convenient unit. The ability to change the sound by swapping op amps is a welcome feature for those who like to tinker and upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burson is a hifi brand recognized for its modular op-amp design that allows users to easily swap components to customize their sound signature.
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Fosi
ZA3
129
/
Released
2023
The next generation balanced dual-mode Class-D power amplifier. Fosi Audio's first amplifier supporting both stereo and mono modes.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great value for the money and an attractive price point
- Balanced input and single-ended RCA input
- Op amps are swappable
- Compact form factor
- Versatile with stereo and mono mode
Product Considerations
- The volume control was found to be touchy by some reviewers
- The included power brick is quite large, almost as big as the unit itself
- The binding posts are small
- The RCA input sounds inferior to the XLR input
- The amplifier does not high pass the mains when a subwoofer is plugged in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3: ZA3 is considered a more mature version with stylistic elements and new features like balanced inputs and mono mode, with a naturalness in the tonal quality
- Vs SMSL AO200 MKII: AO200 MKII delivers better clarity, definition, and resolution of the sound
Takeaway: The ZA3 is a versatile and compact amplifier that offers great value, especially for those starting their audio journey. Its ability to be used in both stereo and mono configurations and the option to upgrade components make it a flexible choice for various setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a CNC milled aluminum chassis and durable construction
- Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology by THX, aiming for transparent sound reproduction without coloration
- Relay volume control provides precise channel matching
- Plenty of power to drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planars
- Balanced XLR inputs and outputs
Product Considerations
- No pre-amp output
- The notched volume control might not be to everyone's liking
- Gets quite warm during use, especially with the SU-9 DAC stacked on top
- Some reviewers noticed a clicking noise when adjusting the volume
- The three-feet design may not be as stable as a four-feet design
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SMSL SP200: Better unit at repelling noise, with a higher signal-to-noise ratio and lower total harmonic distortion—completely solved the SP200's issue with not having a pitch-black background
- Vs. Benchmark HPA4: Very close to the HPA4 in performance, with some minor differences observed only with high-end headphones
Takeaway: The SMSL SH-9 is a well-built and powerful headphone amplifier with a clean, transparent sound. It is a good choice for audiophiles looking for an accurate and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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