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
- Analog, digital, and wireless connectivity options are provided, integrating a moving magnet phono preamp, and preamp outputs
- A neutral and resolute sound is delivered, with impressive control over connected loudspeakers, bringing out the best in each speaker
- Well-dampened, controlled, firm, and textural bass is offered, with detail and definition, especially noticeable with rock music
- Great high-frequency performance is featured, airy and delicate without causing tweeter glare or fatigue, making it a great fit for speakers with horn-loaded or brighter tweeters
- It operates as an integrated amplifier, preamplifier, or a straight power amplifier, and is programmable via a menu system or remote
Product Considerations
- DTS Play-Fi streaming can introduce five-second gaps between tracks, affecting enjoyment of albums intended for seamless playback
- The DTS Play-Fi app has limitations as streaming services travel through the phone, meaning your phone or tablet must always be turned on
- The OLED display prioritizes input and volume information over playback details
- The phono preamp may be prone to some noise, specifically ground loop hum, requiring cable or outlet adjustments
- It lacks tone controls, though it does have balance control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Yamaha AS801, the Audiolab comes out ahead in every category, save for maybe looks
- Compared to the Bluesound PowerNode, it has a more organic sound compared to the Bluesound's Class D architecture
- Compared to the Musical Fidelity M5SI, the reviewer prefers it, though the M5SI offers more power
- Compared to the Naim Unity Atom, it is more compelling due to budget concerns and the built-in phono preamp
- Compared to the Cambridge Audio AXR100, the reviewer likes it better
Takeaway: The Audiolab 6000A Play is a versatile and capable amplifier that sounds impressive and is a strong option for those wanting an all-in-one streaming solution. Its ability to function as a preamp or power amp, along with its neutral sound signature, makes it a great starting point or even an end-game system for many listeners.
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.
Video Review
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.
6000 Series
- Position: Entry-level series providing high-quality performance with essential features.
- Description: Includes components like the 6000A integrated amplifier, delivering 50W per channel into 8 ohms and features an ESS Sabre32 9018 DAC for digital inputs. It offers Bluetooth connectivity and a moving magnet phono stage, distinguishing it from higher-tier models that may provide more advanced DACs and additional connectivity options.
6000A Play
- Position: Enhanced version of the 6000A with integrated streaming capabilities.
- Description: Building upon the 6000A, includes DTS Play-Fi technology for wireless streaming, allowing access to services like Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz. This integration offers greater convenience compared to the standard 6000A, which lacks built-in streaming functionality.
7000 Series
- Position: Mid-tier series offering improved performance and additional features over the 6000 Series.
- Description: The 7000A integrated amplifier provides 70W per channel into 8 ohms, featuring an upgraded ESS Sabre32 9038Q2M DAC and HDMI ARC connectivity. This series bridges the gap between the 6000 and 9000 Series.
Omnia
- Position: All-in-one system combining amplification, DAC, CD playback, and streaming capabilities.
- Description: Features a built-in CD player, network streaming via DTS Play-Fi, and a high-quality DAC, providing a comprehensive solution for various audio sources. Its all-in-one design offers convenience over separate components found in other series.
9000 Series
- Position: Flagship series delivering top-tier performance and advanced features.
- Description: The 9000A integrated amplifier outputs 100W per channel into 8 ohms, using a high-end ESS Sabre32 9038 Pro DAC and offering balanced XLR inputs for superior connectivity. The 9000N streamer uses a Lumin-based platform, providing extensive file compatibility and Roon Ready certification, setting it apart from the 7000 Series with its premium streaming capabilities.
See all the brand's products
Read the 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
6000A Play
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Manufacturer's notes
The audiolab 6000A Play, is the latest addition to the globally acclaimed 6000 series. A combination of the illustrious and class-leading 6000A integrated amplifier with the acclaimed 6000N Play wireless audio streaming player, the audiolab 6000A Play is a richly specified, all-encompassing audio solution. Adapting to the modern world of music streaming but retaining all of the awarding-winning analogue and digital audio circuitry from the 6000A, the 6000A Play offers almost universal source compatibility.
The audiolab 6000A Play, is the latest addition to the globally acclaimed 6000 series. A combination of the illustrious and class-leading 6000A integrated amplifier with the acclaimed 6000N Play wireless audio streaming player, the audiolab 6000A Play is a richly specified, all-encompassing audio solution. Adapting to the modern world of music streaming but retaining all of the awarding-winning analogue and digital audio circuitry from the 6000A, the 6000A Play offers almost universal source compatibility.
Manufacturer Specs
- Analogue Inputs: 3 x AUX, 1x Phono (MM), 1x Power In
- Digital Input: 2 x Coaxial, 2 x Toslink Optical, Bluetooth (aptX/aptX LL)
- Analogue Output: 1x RCA Pre Out
- Rated Max. Power Output: 2 X 50W (8 ohm, THD<1%), 2 X 75W (4 ohm, THD<1%)
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.003% (1kHz @ 40W/8ohm)
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (+/-0.3dB)
- Signal-to-Noise ratio (S/N): > 110dB (A-weighted)
- D to A Converter: ES9018K2M
- Dimensions: 445 x 80 x 330mm (W x H x D)
- Weight: 7.9kg (Net), 10kg (Gross)
- Power Requirements: 220-240V ~ 50-60Hz, 100-120V ~ 50-60Hz
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Average Price
$501-$1,000
Used Products
125
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Brand Popularity
40
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23
Founded
1983
Our take on the brand
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Brand Page
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Audiolab
What if you spend a bit more?
Omnia
1049
1049
/
17
Reviews
Audiolab
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive set of features including CD player, streamer, Bluetooth, headphone amplifier, phono amplifier, and power amplifier, all in one box
- Sounds very good across digital and analogue inputs, the combination of digital decoding and amplification is exceptionally cohesive
- Has a sturdy, well-built casework that feels every inch of its price tag, and is built to last
- Provides clear, detailed and large, spacious sound with an easy-going presentation, and can be part of an expansive wireless multi-room system
- Incorporates a high-quality ESS Sabre DAC and amplifier based on the Audiolab 6000A design
Product Considerations
- The software interface using DTS Play-Fi is a little slow, and Play-Fi is still not gapless, Play-Fi is not delivering at the same level of user experience as competitor solutions
- Rivals have greater dynamic punch, rhythmic accuracy, and energy
- Some reviewers find that the unit can be a bit sensitive with scratched CDs
- Remote and fascia controls aren't all that responsive
- There is no album art displayed on the screen during streaming
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Technics SA-C600, the Technics may not be as big-scaled, open or reveal as much detail as the Audiolab Omnia, but it's more adept at conveying enthusiasm, rhythmic precision and dynamic punch
- In direct competition with the Cambridge Audio Evo 75, the Audiolab Omnia ties Audiolab styling touches into something that is not slavishly retro and gives away absolutely nothing in terms of feel, solidarity and design
- Compared to the NAD C700, the Audiolab Omnia has functionality they cannot get anywhere near—indeed functionality that leaves everything else under two grand looking rather limited
Takeaway: The Audiolab Omnia is a versatile and well-built all-in-one system that offers a wide range of features and delivers enjoyable sound, making it a great option for those seeking convenience without sacrificing audio quality. It's especially appealing for those who still value CD playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
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Omnia
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Product Page
7000A
1799
1799
/
9
Reviews
Audiolab
Nestled between the 6000 and 9000, the 7000 fuses premium traits into a pricing category that follows the mantra of class-leading performance. Outwardly resembling the sequential series and therefore offering a brand-wide visual aesthetic match, the audiolab 7000A improves on the 6000A with a genuine 70W per channel output, a new DAC, a new full-colour IPS LCD screen and more! More compact than the 9000 series, it maintains crisp ergonomics, high-quality engineering, a useful range of facilities and an excellent all-around acoustic performance and connectivity.
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 110 watts into 4 ohms
- Has a built-in DAC.
- Includes multiple analog inputs, including a phono preamp.
- Has a 2.8 inch color IPS display that is larger than the 6000A.
- Offers multiple digital connectivity options, including optical, coaxial, USB, and HDMI with ARC.
Product Considerations
- Lacks tone controls, only offers balance adjustments.
- Speaker binding posts aren't great.
- Remote requires switching between amp and transport mode, which is annoying.
- Can get a little brash when the volume is pushed.
- Some reviewers find the bass warm, slightly colored, and a little muddy.
- Tray for the CD player is a tad flimsy and lightweight.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs 6000A: The 7000A fits perfectly between the 6000 and the 9000 series, with the midrange feeling cleaner, more dimensional—and resolving.
- Vs 9000A: The 7000A offers similar features but less power for a lower price.
- Vs Yamaha RN2000A: The 7000A offers better value, although the Yamaha has room correction and tone controls.
- Vs NAD C399: Some reviewers prefer the sound of the 7000A, finding the NAD sterile.
- Vs Marantz 40N: Comparable in functionality and feature set, but the 7000A is less expensive.
- Vs Bluesound PowerNode: The 7000A has greater flexibility and more analog inputs.
Takeaway: The Audiolab 7000A is a versatile and well-featured integrated amplifier that offers a balance of performance and value. It is a great choice for those looking for an all-in-one solution with modern connectivity and a pleasing sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
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Product Page
iDSD Diablo 2
1299
1299
/
25
Reviews
iFi
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Visit our
iDSD Diablo 2
page
Product Page
Anni
1680
1680
/
21
Reviews
Chord Electronics
Anni is our first-ever desktop integrated amplifier. Capable of driving both headphones and compact loudspeakers, Anni benefits from the company's proprietary ULTIMA circuit topology and is perfectly positioned to exploit the full potential of today's high-performance headphones, desktop monitors and high-resolution audio sources.
The new Anni desktop integrated amplifier forms part of the Qutest range and seamlessly complements the resolving abilities of the multi-award-winning Qutest standalone DAC and Huei phono stage. As a system, the Qutest components provide an unrivalled desktop audio solution, offering class-leading digital and analogue technologies for the modern music lover. The company's compact QSS (Qutest Stand System) modular equipment rack provides the perfect support, too.
Anni offers the recently announced dual-feed-forward error-correction circuit topology whether using headphones or compact loudspeakers. Anni's advanced technology allows it to drive any headphone load, error-monitored and compensated amplification at all times.
Benefitting from both 3.5 mm headphone outputs and ¼-inch (6.35 mm) outputs, so two can listen simultaneously, plus 4 mm banana-type loudspeaker outputs, Anni delivers 10 watts of quality ULTIMA amplification, controlled by a fascia-mounted volume control that also doubles as an input selector switch for Anni's two line-level inputs. A two-stage gain control for loudspeakers provides additional flexibility with a wide range of desktop monitors.
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Joyful sound signature with detailed output
- Can power a wide range of headphones, due to Ultima technology
- Compact design, stacks perfectly with the Qutest and Huei
- Employs trickle-down Ultima technology to allow delivery of enormous peak current outputs
- Solid build quality using CNC-milled aluminum casework and good heat dissipation
- Connectivity options include headphone and speaker outputs
Product Considerations
- No gain switch for the headphone output
- Default gain level a bit high for sensitive IEMs
- More power limitations with speakers than headphones—best for smaller, efficient speakers or nearfield listening
- Runs hot, requiring good ventilation
- The volume control feels a little wobbly and might be difficult to use in a very precise way, and there is some channel imbalance at very low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Qutest/Anni pairing justifies its price premium thanks to a more composed and insightful presentation that offers notably more low-end authority, dynamic punch and tonal richness
- Cyrus ONE HD is plusher, showing that Anni has strong niche appeal
- The iFi xDSD Gryphon has digital inputs and built-in DAC, while Anni can power speakers
Takeaway: The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact and well-built amplifier that delivers a joyful and detailed sound, making it a great addition to a desktop setup for headphone and nearfield speaker listening. Its use of trickle-down Ultima technology ensures high-quality performance in a small package, and its ability to stack with other Chord devices makes it a good choice for those already invested in the ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
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Anni
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Mojo 2
650
/
Released
2022
Chord Electronics
The British designed and built Mojo 2 is the most advanced portable DAC and headphone amplifier in the world today. Winner of Best DAC (£300-£500) in the What Hi-Fi? Awards 2022, the Mojo 2 is entirely engineered around a powerful, custom-coded FPGA processor and benefits from several unique technologies.
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Visit
Mojo 2
Page
Product Page
xDSD Gryphon
599
/
Released
2021
iFi
On the desk or in your pocket, be ready for anything. Packed with award-winning features and functionality, the xDSD Gryphon takes the best tech from our desktop DACs to create a portable DAC/Amp that can rise to any challenge.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Visit
xDSD Gryphon
Page
Product Page
Powernode
949
/
Released
2021
Bluesound
The Bluesound POWERNODE is the HiFi amp reinvented for the streaming age, combining audiophile-grade componentry and multi-room music capabilities to create an intuitive "just add speakers" hi-res sound system for modern music lovers.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
Visit
Powernode
Page
Product Page
S17 Pro
699
/
Released
2023
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aune
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced technology, with balanced inputs and outputs.
- Delivers powerful amplification, with up to 7.5 watts of power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including hard-to-drive models.
- Features a linear power supply with a large transformer and capacitor bank, providing a stable and powerful power source.
- Provides two current modes (50mA and 100mA) to tailor the sound tonality, allowing users to choose between a more forward/analytical sound and a warmer/fuller sound.
- Employs an R2R network for volume control, ensuring channel balance even at low volumes.
Product Considerations
- Runs quite hot due to its Class A amplification, requiring adequate ventilation, with chassis temperatures potentially reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the unit may switch from 100mA to 50mA mode if it overheats.
- High power output might not be ideal for very sensitive IEMs, potentially limiting volume control flexibility.
- The preamplifier output is always active, meaning it doesn't mute when headphones are plugged in, requiring caution to prevent damage.
- The LCD display cannot be dimmed or switched off, and the red color of the 100mA mode may appear washed out.
- Some report volume slots are not regular or have large jumps, and/or that the remote control can be buggy.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Topping A90 Discrete: The S17 has a richer sound, wider soundstage, and easier dynamics, especially in 100mA mode, placing it in a higher tier.
- Vs. Topping A90D: The S17 Pro is capable of even stronger dynamic swings, with a slightly cleaner and less cluttered soundstage.
- Vs. Violectric V222: The Aune S17 Pro is more 'tubey' and warmer sounding than the V222.
- Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: The Aune S17 has better volume control, higher dynamic range, better driving power, and better resolution.
Takeaway: The Aune S17 Pro is a powerful and versatile headphone amplifier that delivers rich, detailed sound, allowing listeners to experience music in new ways. With its balanced design and flexible current modes, it can enhance a wide range of headphones and audio setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Visit
S17 Pro
Page
Product Page
CH-Amp
559
/
Released
2023
EarMen
Introducing EarMen CH-Amp, a desktop fully balanced headphone amplifier designed to deliver exceptional audio performance and enhance your music listening pleasure. With outstanding features and a robust linear power supply unit, CH-Amp sets a new standard in desktop audio amplification.
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very clean, smooth, and enjoyable sound without harsh edges or digitization
- Plenty of power for a wide range of headphones and IEMs due to its 3.8 watts into a 32 ohm load
- Comes with a linear power supply that provides clean power and minimizes noise
- Includes a remote control that can also control the matching DAC
- Offers versatile connectivity with balanced and single-ended pre-outputs, as well as multiple line inputs
Product Considerations
- 4.4mm connections are used for balanced input/output, which may require purchasing new cables if existing XLR cables are already owned
- The VU meter on the front of the device may not be very useful for normal listening levels
- Settings are not held when the amplifier is turned off
- There is noise in headphones when the unit is turned off or on from standby mode
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Burson Audio Soloist 3XP: Champ provides more body and weight to the sound, while the Soloist 3XP offers greater space and separation
Takeaway: The CH-Amp is a compact and versatile amplifier that delivers a clean and enjoyable sound, making it a great choice for those looking for a high-quality listening experience. Its ability to pair well with a variety of headphones and IEMs makes it a worthwhile addition to any setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EarMen is a European-manufactured hifi brand that draws from their decade of tube amplifier experience to create DACs and amplifiers with a neutral, natural sound signature. Their products feature fully balanced designs and are engineered to minimize signal interference from Bluetooth, WiFi, and mobile devices, while offering unique features like dual headphone outputs in their portable units.
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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
- Analog, digital, and wireless connectivity options are provided, integrating a moving magnet phono preamp, and preamp outputs
- A neutral and resolute sound is delivered, with impressive control over connected loudspeakers, bringing out the best in each speaker
- Well-dampened, controlled, firm, and textural bass is offered, with detail and definition, especially noticeable with rock music
- Great high-frequency performance is featured, airy and delicate without causing tweeter glare or fatigue, making it a great fit for speakers with horn-loaded or brighter tweeters
- It operates as an integrated amplifier, preamplifier, or a straight power amplifier, and is programmable via a menu system or remote
Product Considerations
- DTS Play-Fi streaming can introduce five-second gaps between tracks, affecting enjoyment of albums intended for seamless playback
- The DTS Play-Fi app has limitations as streaming services travel through the phone, meaning your phone or tablet must always be turned on
- The OLED display prioritizes input and volume information over playback details
- The phono preamp may be prone to some noise, specifically ground loop hum, requiring cable or outlet adjustments
- It lacks tone controls, though it does have balance control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Yamaha AS801, the Audiolab comes out ahead in every category, save for maybe looks
- Compared to the Bluesound PowerNode, it has a more organic sound compared to the Bluesound's Class D architecture
- Compared to the Musical Fidelity M5SI, the reviewer prefers it, though the M5SI offers more power
- Compared to the Naim Unity Atom, it is more compelling due to budget concerns and the built-in phono preamp
- Compared to the Cambridge Audio AXR100, the reviewer likes it better
Takeaway: The Audiolab 6000A Play is a versatile and capable amplifier that sounds impressive and is a strong option for those wanting an all-in-one streaming solution. Its ability to function as a preamp or power amp, along with its neutral sound signature, makes it a great starting point or even an end-game system for many listeners.
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.
Video Review
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