Product Strengths

• Impressive clarity, especially in the midrange, enhances detail in the music
• Bass performance is focused and precise, adding detail and punch to the lower frequencies
• A wide and expansive soundstage creates a sense of space and separation between instruments
• The amp is small and light, but is a fully linear class AB amplifier with a transformer inside
• It offers neutral presentation
• Requires a preamplifier with volume control, as it is a power amplifier without a volume knob itself
• Banana plugs are required for speaker connections, spades are not compatible
• In monoblock configuration, a preamplifier with balanced outputs is required

Product Considerations

• Requires a preamplifier with volume control, as it is a power amplifier without a volume knob itself
• Banana plugs are required for speaker connections, spades are not compatible
• In monoblock configuration, a preamplifier with balanced outputs is required
• 10 watts might not be enough for all listening setups and all environments
• It is important to pair this amp with speakers with high efficiency rating

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Versus the Cambridge Audio 651A—the Gjallarhorn had a wider and cleaner soundstage, provided a bigger bass performance, and separated the instruments in a more efficient manner, thus enhancing the clarity
• Versus the Rega Brio-R—the Gjallarhorn had a wider and cleaner soundstage, provided a bigger bass performance, and separated the instruments in a more efficient manner, thus enhancing the clarity
• Versus the Fosi Audio BT20A Pro—the Gjallarhorn had a bit more space and instrument separation
• Versus the Schiit Vidar—the Vidar has a lot more power, which is not the Gjallarhorn's intent
• Versus the Schiit Rekkr—the Gjallarhorn outperforms the Rekkr (2 watts), and is designed for more powerful home set ups rather than desktops

Takeaway: The Gjallarhorn is a versatile amplifier that excels in near-field setups and can be transformed into a powerful monoblock system, delivering clarity and balanced sound. It is a great choice for those seeking a compact yet capable amplifier for smaller spaces or desktop use, especially when paired with efficient speakers.

Product Strengths

• Offers a full and robust sound
• Simple, stripped-down integrated amplifier that's easy to set up and use, with the essentials covered
• Solidly made, with good build quality and well-engineered controls
• The phono stage is surprisingly good, especially if paired with a modest turntable
• Features tone controls (bass and treble) adjustable by ±6 decibels, are a notable and highly recommended feature

Product Considerations

• Lacks digital inputs and Bluetooth connectivity which are common at its price point
• Has no outputs on the unit whatsoever, which makes integrating a subwoofer rather difficult
• The remote is a large plastic letdown
• At higher volumes, depending on the speakers used, the sound can become a bit aggressive
• The power output is modest

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Vs Marantz PM6007: Delivers a more authentic performance thanks to its pleasing resolution and greater insight into the subtleties

Takeaway: The Rotel A8 is a great starter amplifier that's easy to incorporate into any system and has surprisingly audiophile performance for the price. Its simplicity and sound quality make it ideal for those who appreciate straightforward design and solid performance.

Product Strengths

• Tonally sweet and detailed
• Able to engage with faster material
• Impressive phono stage with low noise and plenty of gain
• Extra functionality that works a charm
• 21-watt output is sufficient for any listening level
• Connectivity options

Product Considerations

• Dinky volume control is a little sensitive to over adjustment
• Input indicator is invisible at any distance
• Block type PSUs mean that they aren't quite as compact as expected

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• The Node Nano is fractionally better doing its own decoding than the Stereo Box E, when the Node Nano is connected via the analogue out against the coax

Takeaway: The Stereo Box E is a sweet and detailed amplifier with impressive phono stage and sufficient output, which makes it a genuinely good piece of affordable two channel hifi. It provides new arrivals the starting point they need to build systems of their own

Product Strengths

• Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
• Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
• Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
• Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
• XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
• Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
• ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality

Product Considerations

• Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
• Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
• Battery life estimation can be unreliable
• No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
• Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

• Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
• Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
• Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
• Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
• Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer

Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.

Product Strengths

• Good build quality for the price, with an all-metal chassis and tight inputs
• Versatile, with multiple connection options: USB Type-C, optical, coaxial, and RCA outputs
• Offers bass and treble controls to adjust the sound to the listener's liking
• Decent power output for most headphones, especially within the 32-250 Ohm range
• Great value for the price, especially considering its features and versatility

Product Considerations

• Some reviewers experienced technical issues with initial units, raising concerns about reliability
• May not provide enough headroom for all headphones, even with efficient ones
• Bass adjustment can muddy the sound if turned up too much
• The internal DAC is considered mediocre by some, not very resolving
• There can be a slight noise floor audible with sensitive IEMs

Takeaway: The FIIO K5 is a versatile and affordable device that enhances the audio experience with different headphones and devices. It has multiple inputs and EQ controls, which are beneficial for gamers and music lovers.