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
- Unparalleled build quality and a superb set of user interface features
- Deep power reserves, extreme transparency, and cavernous soundstaging
- Pure neutrality, an insanely low noise floor, and supreme dynamic prowess, while conveying music with passion, soul, and energy
- Eliminates detail-robbing, image distorting—micro-dynamic sapping microphonic distortions
- Rivals the world's best electron microscopes, unearthing hidden textures and lyrical strands from familiar digital and vinyl sources alike
Product Considerations
- Requires loads of space due to its large dimensions and heavy mass
- May expose flaws in subpar recordings and mediocre source components
- Subpar power delivery lines may cause the amp's sophisticated protection circuitry to activate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Humboldt betters the Gryphon Diablo 300 in terms of neutrality and edges it out on the transparency front
- The Vinnie Rossi L2i Special Edition couldn't quite match Humboldt's outright transparency to source material and fell well short on both the power and current fronts
- The Mola Mola Kula rivals Humboldt in harmonic sweetness and sheer musicality
- The Audionet WATT approaches Humboldt in overall sound quality, but comes off as just a tad less neutral and a smidgeon less authoritative in scale and grip
- Tonally comparable to the Pilium Leonidas and Vitus SIA-030
Takeaway: The Audionet Humboldt is a high-performing, reference-level integrated amplifier that is enjoyable to listen to and provides a combination of power and transparency. It is best suited for those who want simplicity and cost savings associated with an integrated design without sacrificing performance.
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.
AMP
- Positioning: The entry-level mono-block power amplifier in Audionet's lineup.
- Description: Uses Ultra-Linear-Amplifier (ULA) technology, which ensures minimal signal impurity and excellent feedback damping. Compared to the AMP I V2, it offers a more compact design and is suitable for smaller rooms or setups where space is a concern, while still delivering powerful sound with a focus on tonal accuracy and dynamic precision.
MAX
- Positioning: A reference-level mono-block amplifier, positioned as a high-end option for serious audiophiles.
- Description: Features Audionet's latest ULA technology, offering exceptional loudspeaker control and minimal distortion. It surpasses the AMP I V2 with its superior power output and ability to handle complex audio signals.
Heisenberg
- Positioning: The flagship mono power amplifier, representing the pinnacle of Audionet's engineering and design.
- Description: Designed with a focus on ultimate performance, incorporating a unique Floating Pane Design for optimal resistance to microphonic effects. It offers more power and precision than the MAX.
Humboldt
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier that combines the qualities of Audionet's top models, positioned as a premium all-in-one solution.
- Description: Features holistic design and advanced circuitry, providing a seamless audio experience with exceptional tonal balance and dynamic range. It offers the convenience of an integrated amplifier with the performance of separate components like the Heisenberg.
Read the reviews
Humboldt
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Manufacturer's notes
- Type: Ultimate Analog Integrated Stereo Amplifier
- Output Power: 2 x 320 W into 8Ω, 2 x 460 W into 4Ω
- Frequency response: 0-700.000 Hz (-3 dB), DC 0,3-700.000 Hz (-3 dB), AC
- THD+N: <-100 dB @ 1 kHz
- SNR: > 120 dB, (A-weighted)
- Channel Separation: >140 dB, 20-20.000 Hz
- Input impedance Cinch (Line): 50 kΩ
- Input impedance Symmetrical (XLR): 35 kΩ
- Mains: 220…240 V or 110…120 V, 50…60 Hz
- Power consumption: < 0,5 W Stand By, max. 1800 W
- Dimensions: Width: 450 mm, Height: 320 mm, Depth: 505 mm
- Weight: 61 kg
Our take on the brand
Used
Audionet
What if you spend a bit more?
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced design, handcrafted in the USA
- Employs a sextet of KT170 valves, ECC83, and 6H30, with hand-selected and matched valves
- Features Audio Research's 'Auto-Bias' circuitry and an internal hour meter for monitoring valve usage
- Aesthetically elegant design with unique 'Ghost Meters' which are LED-illuminated and can be dimmed or switched off
- Capable of delivering high power at low frequencies, controlling and driving speakers like a big solid-state amplifier
Product Considerations
- High price point
- Requires a 20A IEC cable (supplied)
- The bass control and sheer bass output of the Gryphon Audio Antileon EVO (solid state) could not quite be matched by the Reference 330M
- The unit use a variable speed fan, although it was essentially silent during testing, this may still present a point of concern for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Gryphon Audio Antileon EVO: The Gryphon Audio Antileon EVO (solid state) has slightly better bass control and output
Takeaway: The Audio Research Reference 330M is an intelligently engineered and beautifully styled amplifier that embodies the meaning of 'Reference' in sound quality. Its powerful valve design delivers excellent performance and is sure to be a conversation piece in any high-end audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Since its introduction in 2022, Apex has been hailed as the finest power amplifier ever created. Critics and connoisseurs have universally praised its combination of shattering power and sublime delicacy; its ability to drive any loudspeaker balanced with unimpeachable tonal neutrality. It has always been Gryphon’s mission to achieve the highest possible audio performance in terms of sheer musicality, transparency and realism. With Apex Mono and Apex Stereo, Gryphon Audio Designs has elevated pure Class A power amplification a titanic leap above what was previously considered possible. Gryphon Apex takes us several significant steps closer in the quest for the most natural and convincing musical illusion.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers lots of current due to a new 2000VA toroidal transformer
- The Apex Stereo's ease of presentation was immediately obvious—it fully engaged the reviewer
- The amp exuded supreme self-confidence
- The amp simultaneously speeds things up and slows things down
- Superior speaker grip, improving organization, timing, and musical flow
Product Considerations
- Initial start-up can be alarming due to flashing error lights
- The size and weight (445 lbs) can make installation challenging
- It's gigantic and heavy, requiring special equipment and tools to handle its production
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Boulder 2060: The Apex revealed more tonally saturated sounds
- Vs Boulder 2060: Apex cast a larger soundstage, and within those huge spaces, images were generally larger and more three-dimensional
- Vs Boulder 2060: Apex exposed more detail in the music
Takeaway: The Gryphon Apex Stereo is a powerful amplifier that brings music to life with a balanced and full sound at any volume. Its ability to reveal the resonant nature of instruments transforms listening sessions into immersive experiences.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The company's inaugural creation, the Momentum Mono Amplifier, served as the foundation for its product line. The Momentum M400 MxV Mono Amplifier, the latest iteration, enhances the iconic design to new heights. Incorporating techniques and topologies from the Relentless Mono Amplifier, the Momentum M400 MxV models represent the pinnacle of Momentum circuitry evolution. The new model name, MxV, signifies Mass times Velocity—the fundamental equation for Momentum, a recognition that resonates particularly with individuals having a physics background. Explore the cutting-edge Momentum M400 MxV for an unparalleled audio experience.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exquisite aesthetics with a sleek design and a power meter that glows green
- Delivers a smooth and satisfying sound
- The sound is described as 'louder' and more powerful
- Said to be able to drive any speaker to its maximum output
- Upgrades are retrofittable to earlier Momentum models
- Balanced input only
Product Considerations
- Runs warm
- The scale on the power meter is essentially uncalibrated
- Requires a return to the factory for MxV upgrades on earlier Momentum Models
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Momentum M400 MxV incorporates technology from the Relentless line and gets very close to the Relentless sound regarding space and depth
- The Momentum M400 MxV is smaller and lighter than the Karan Acoustics POWERa mono
- The Momentum M400 MxV is smaller and lighter than the D'Agostino Progression M550 Mono amplifier
Takeaway: The Momentum M400 MxV monoblock is a beautifully designed and powerful amplifier that delivers a smooth and satisfying listening experience. It incorporates technology from the flagship Relentless model, making it a top-tier choice for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Possessing formidable power, unrivalled technology and a herculean appearance this amplifier delivers electrifying signals to your loudspeakers, transforming your music into a thrilling experience.
craftsmanshipLow frequencies are faithfully reproduced without a whiff of constraint. Spellbinding vocals have astonishing reality and territory around them.
Monopolizing your leisure time, the addictive clarity and power of each musical note, riveting you into a state of blissful abandonment.
Highly skilled craftspeople take enormous pride in hand building each amplifier, scrupulously checking and testing every parameter, so your enjoyment is forever untroubled.
Power on tapUnprecedented power is yours to unleash, delivering an astonishing musical performance. Concealed within the crafted exterior lurks a gargantuan 2300VA mains transformer delivering mountainous levels of current to feed your musical hunger.
Accomplishing the largest crescendos turns into child's play with 272,000uF of electrical brawn just itching to be discharged.
Reassuringly cool, even under your most sustained inclination to blast away the cobwebs, it is gratifying so much power is on tap.
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Build quality is among the best, with all pieces fashioned from solid aluminum
- The system delivers an effortless and truly reference-level sound
- Produces deep and powerful bass that energizes the room with ease
- Offers stunning analogue playback with incredible soundstaging, holographic image, depth, and width
- Delivers music with startling clarity across all genres
Product Considerations
- The Reference Preamplifier lacks a remote, focusing on a purist design
- The Reference Three speakers are very heavy—weighing 100kg net
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Avid Hifi Reference system performed similarly well with Fanfare for the Common Man, producing impressive bass and dynamics, compared to the YG Acoustics system with Boulder
Takeaway: The AVID HiFi Reference system is a top-tier system delivering exceptional sound quality and effortless power. It is designed to provide an extremely enjoyable and immersive music experience, making it a worthwhile investment for serious audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What else competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Visually stylish, luxurious, well-built, and enjoyable to look at
- Offers extensive functionality including preamp gain adjustment, channel balance, mute, and display brightness settings
- Combines qualities of both tube and transistor designs, having transparency and magical realism with easy power
- Produces a clean, succinct, holographic, and exciting sound, with great dynamic capabilities
- Exceptionally well-balanced frequency response, fitting between the warmth and energetic explicitness of other amps
Product Considerations
- Massive and heavy, making it not easy to move around
- Single ended inputs only with no balanced inputs
- The vast disparity between the damping factors—synergy can vary with speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Aavik I-880 was leaner, more illuminated, outlined and energized, spatially grander, less intimate and occupied via shorter key sound sources, compared to Trilogy 915R preamp and twin 995R mono amps
- The I-880 was internally juicy, admirably outlined, enjoyably angry, instantaneous, and powerful in the lower end range, where the twin 995Rs were boomier, fuzzier, slower and sensibly shallower on the very bottom
Takeaway: The Aavik I-880 is a high-performing, visually stunning integrated amplifier that brings music to life with both elegance and power. This amplifier is designed to be a centerpiece, both sonically and aesthetically, in any high-end audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a complete and unabridged rendition of music, offering a sense of authority and positively influencing the sound
- Presents music as a tightly unified whole, creating a singular event rather than a collection of individual sounds
- Offers beautifully balanced and poised sound across the entire frequency range, from deep bass to detailed highs
- Maintains steady output voltage regardless of changes in load, defying mains input variations, thanks to the Utopik power supply
- The Adaptive Bias Control (ABC) technology establishes and adjusts bias current in real time
Product Considerations
- The high price dictates that all other system components (source, pre-amplification, speakers, supports) need to be of similarly high quality and expense
Takeaway: The Linn Klimax Solo 800 is an uncompromising amplifier that allows one to hear their music in a new light by delivering a complete picture of the sound. It offers exceptional clarity, balance, and control over the music signal.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Strong physical presence and handsome aesthetics, featuring lacquered copper heatsinks, venturi tunnels, and Breguet-style dials.
- MxV upgrades bring significant improvements in core music reproduction areas such as sound stage, detail, and dynamics.
- The Momentum M400MxV sounds 'louder' and more powerful even when set to the same levels as its predecessors.
- The Momentum MxV amplifiers have the ability to bring out the best in loudspeakers
Product Considerations
- The D'Agostino Momentum MxV monoblock is a heavy piece of equipment, weighing 43kg apiece without optional stands.
- The Momentum M400MxV may run warm
- DIP switches for input loading are inside the unit, which requires removing the top cover when switching between cartridges
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Momentum MxV amplifiers bring much of what inspired the larger Relentless Epic 800 and Relentless Epic 1600 to a smaller form factor and price point
- The early Momentum Stereo delivered around half the power of the monoblocks, compared to the Momentum Stereo.
Takeaway: The D'Agostino Momentum MxV amplifiers bring high-end performance in a visually striking package, capable of significantly enhancing the listening experience through improved detail and dynamics. The upgrade path for existing owners also makes it a worthwhile long-term investment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Transparent and uncolored
- Exceptional casework and styling
- Ample power without muscularity becoming the product's defining attribute
- Utterly effortless and transparent magnification of the electrical impulse
- Allows a listener to devote their psychic energy to making an emotional connection to music
- Only has balanced inputs
Product Considerations
- Only has balanced inputs
Takeaway: The Ferios monoblock power amplifiers are some of the best electronics available, combining immediacy, transparency, and tonal beauty. Its ability to effortlessly resolve complex arrangements makes it a worthwhile choice for serious audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Employs Pathos InPoL Technology/Dual InPoL Circuit, aiming for Pure Class A amplification and a warm, natural sound
- Delivers substantial power: 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, and 170 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- Uses high-quality components and a power supply based on 1,800 VA toroidal transformers per channel
- Features a tube preamp (using Tun-Sol ECC803 and 6H30 Sovtek tubes) and MOSFETs in the power amplifier
Product Considerations
- The amplifier is large (540 x 800 x 300 mm) and very heavy (100 kg), possibly making it difficult to integrate into standard hifi setups
Takeaway: The InPoL is engineered to deliver a natural sound and substantial power, using high-quality components and a sophisticated design. This could be a compelling option for individuals seeking a high-end amplifier.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
- Unparalleled build quality and a superb set of user interface features
- Deep power reserves, extreme transparency, and cavernous soundstaging
- Pure neutrality, an insanely low noise floor, and supreme dynamic prowess, while conveying music with passion, soul, and energy
- Eliminates detail-robbing, image distorting—micro-dynamic sapping microphonic distortions
- Rivals the world's best electron microscopes, unearthing hidden textures and lyrical strands from familiar digital and vinyl sources alike
Product Considerations
- Requires loads of space due to its large dimensions and heavy mass
- May expose flaws in subpar recordings and mediocre source components
- Subpar power delivery lines may cause the amp's sophisticated protection circuitry to activate
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Humboldt betters the Gryphon Diablo 300 in terms of neutrality and edges it out on the transparency front
- The Vinnie Rossi L2i Special Edition couldn't quite match Humboldt's outright transparency to source material and fell well short on both the power and current fronts
- The Mola Mola Kula rivals Humboldt in harmonic sweetness and sheer musicality
- The Audionet WATT approaches Humboldt in overall sound quality, but comes off as just a tad less neutral and a smidgeon less authoritative in scale and grip
- Tonally comparable to the Pilium Leonidas and Vitus SIA-030
Takeaway: The Audionet Humboldt is a high-performing, reference-level integrated amplifier that is enjoyable to listen to and provides a combination of power and transparency. It is best suited for those who want simplicity and cost savings associated with an integrated design without sacrificing performance.
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