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
- Exceptional transparency and accuracy allow the listener to hear the source material without coloration
- Very low distortion and noise contribute to a realistic and fatigue-free listening experience
- Powerful enough to drive a wide range of headphones, from high-impedance to low-impedance models and sensitive IEMs
- Precise volume control with 256 steps in 0.5dB increments allows for fine-tuning of the listening level
- Feature-rich with a user-friendly touchscreen interface and multiple inputs and outputs for versatile use
Product Considerations
- High price tag may be prohibitive for some buyers
- May reveal flaws in other components of the audio chain due to its high transparency, requiring careful system matching
- The 4-pin XLR headphone output is not balanced, only separating the ground returns
- Runs warm if left on for extended periods
- Absence of output switching and level-trim memory for outputs might be an issue for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rogue Audio RP-7, the HPA4 delivers a more concrete sound image and a more neutral environment by removing reverb
- The HPA4 trounces the HeadAmp Gilmore Lite Mk2 in terms of transparency and resolution
- Vs Massdrop THX-AAA-789, the HPA4 has clearer leading edges, better impact and attack, better bass control, depth & punch—and more energy
- LCD-2C sounds better on HPA4 than LCD-4 on Audio-gd Master 9
Takeaway: The Benchmark HPA4 is a top-tier headphone amplifier and line preamplifier that provides an incredibly accurate and transparent listening experience. It is the right tool to hear music and headphones at their best.
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
HPA4
reviews
[{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 Review - Is this the best headphone amp on the planet?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ryO5WHAgd4","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 Headphone | My thoughts on Pre Amp - Ken Jacobsen New Music","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vu8YwOkL6eo","source":"Ken Jacobsen","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 Review - The One to rule them All","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIR9DbllcxE","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 pre-amp and HP amp","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWs-YER6Wz4","source":"The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"SMSL SP200 VS Massdrop THX-789 VS Benchmark HPA4 – Battle Of The THX-es!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Zuynm3o3vs","source":"The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 headphone amplifier/line preamplifier","link":"https://www.stereophile.com/content/benchmark-hpa4-headphone-amplifierline-preamplifier","source":"Stereophile","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 Review – The One to rule them All!","link":"https://soundnews.net/amplifiers/headphone-amps/benchmark-hpa4-review-the-one-to-rule-them-all","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4","link":"https://www.soundonsound.com/reviews/benchmark-hpa4","source":"Sound on Sound","datePublished":""},{"title":"Benchmark: HPA4 Headphone/Line Amplifier","link":"https://tapeop.com/reviews/gear/141/hpa4-headphoneline-amplifier","source":"Tape Op","datePublished":""},{"title":"Benchmark HPA-4 – Headphone Amplifier/Pre – Review","link":"https://headmania.org/2019/07/07/benchmark-hpa-4-headphone-amplifier-pre-review","source":"HeadMania","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4","link":"https://the-ear.net/review-hardware/benchmark-hpa4-headphone-amplifier-preamplifier","source":"The Ear","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"The Benchmark HPA4 Headphone Amplifier – The Leader in Transparency!","link":"https://headphone.guru/the-benchmark-hpa4-headphone-amplifier-the-leader-in-transparency","source":"Headphone Guru","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Audiophile Review! Benchmark HPA4 Headphone Amplifier/Line-Stage Preamplifier: Precision Volume, Pure Transparency","link":"https://everythingaudionetwork.blogspot.com/2018/07/audiophile-review-benchmark-hpa4.html","source":"Everything Audio Network","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 – Headphone Amplifier – Review","link":"https://hifiandmusicsource.com/2019/07/benchmark-hpa4-headphone-amplifier-review","source":"HiFi and Music Source","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Benchmark Media Systems HPA4 Headphone Amplifier","link":"https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/benchmark-media-systems-hpa4-headphone-amplifier","source":"The Absolute Sound","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Review Benchmark HPA4 headphone amplifier","link":"https://www.alpha-audio.net/review/review-benchmark-hpa4-headphone-amplifier","source":"Alpha Audio","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Benchmark Media Systems HPA4","link":"https://www.barryrudolph.com/mix/benchmark_media_hpa4.html","source":"Barry Rudolph","datePublished":""},{"title":"Benchmark Media HPA4 Preamplifier-AHB2 Power Amplifier-DAC3 B DAC Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/amplifier/preamplifier/benchmark-media-hpa4-preamplifier-ahb2-power-amplifier-dac3-b-dac-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Benchmark HPA4 headphone amplifier","link":"https://www.hifinews.com/content/benchmark-hpa4-headphone-amplifier","source":"Hi-Fi News","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"HPA4 Review","link":"","source":"audiosciencereview.com","datePublished":""}]
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
- THD: < -125 dB (0.00006%)
- SNR: > 135 dB, A-weighted
- Frequency Response: -0.003 dB at 10 Hz, -0.001 dB at 20 kHz
- Bandwidth: exceeds 0.1 Hz to 500 kHz
- Maximum Output Power: 6 Watts into 16 Ohms
- Maximum Output Current: 1.5 A
- Maximum Output Voltage: 11.5 Vrms into 300 Ohms
- Crosstalk: < -133 dB @ 1 kHz, -115 dB @ 10 kHz (XLR4)
- Output Impedance: near 0 Ohms (headphone), 60 Ohms (line)
- Dimensions: 8.65" W x 3.88" H x 8.33" D (Including Feet)
- Weight: 8.0 lbs (12 lbs shipping)
- Power Consumption: 18W Typical, 35W Maximum, 0.33W Standby
Description
The HPA4 is a headphone/line amplifier created through a partnership between Benchmark Media Systems, Inc. and THX, Ltd. featuring THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA ™) technology. THX AAA ™ reduces harmonic, intermodulation, and crossover distortion by 20 to 40 dB to guarantee a realistic and fatigue-free listening experience. It accomplishes this using a patented feed-forward topology to null conventional distortion and noise mechanisms, resulting in the world's most linear amplifier.
THX AAA™ reduces harmonic, intermodulation, and crossover distortion by 20 to 40 dB to guarantee a realistic and fatigue-free listening experience. It accomplishes this using a patented feed-forward topology to null conventional distortion and noise mechanisms, resulting in the world's most linear amplifier. THX AAA allows the amplifier to reach its maximum output power and sound pressure level (SPL) without producing the distortion that normally accompanies increased output levels in traditional amplifiers. Featuring the flagship THX-888 amplifier design, the revolutionary HPA4 headphone amplifier incorporates the same THX AAA technology that Benchmark uses in the AHB2 power amplifier. The HPA4 delivers sonic perfection. Hear the music without any contamination from electronic noise or distortion. The HPA4 delivers power, audio fidelity, speed and accuracy over an utterly silent background.
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:
- Benchmark's products are rooted in professional electronics, emphasizing ultra-low distortion and noise for clean sound. While engineering-oriented, they also value listening tests in product development.
- The brand often incorporates THX Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology, which utilizes a patented feed-forward design to drastically reduce harmonic, intermodulation, and crossover distortion, contributing to sonic transparency.
- Benchmark implements highly precise volume controls, often using relay-based systems with numerous small steps (e.g., 256 steps in 0.5dB increments) to minimize noise and allow for accurate level adjustments.
- They meticulously focus on optimizing the signal path and rejecting interference; for instance, they prefer balanced connections and employ shielding techniques to maintain signal integrity.
Select products
Select product comparisons
DAC3 B
- Positioning: The entry-level model in the DAC3 series, designed for professional studio applications and integration with Benchmark's HPA4 or LA4 amplifiers.
- Description: Offers exceptional audio performance with its advanced high-headroom digital filter design and UltraLock3 jitter attenuation system, making it ideal for studio use. Unlike the DAC3 HGC, it lacks volume control, analog inputs, and a headphone amplifier, which makes it more affordable and suitable for users who already have these components in their setup.
DAC3 L
- Positioning: A step up from the DAC3 B, providing the same high-quality conversion but with additional features like a remote control and home theater bypass.
- Description: Delivers outstanding musical detail and precise stereo imaging, similar to the DAC3 HGC, but without the internal headphone amplifier. This makes it a great choice for users who need a high-performance DAC without the need for headphone amplification.
DAC3 HGC
- Positioning: The flagship model in the DAC3 series, offering the most comprehensive feature set including a headphone amplifier and hybrid gain control.
- Description: Stands out with its hybrid gain control system and native DSD conversion, providing exceptional audio clarity and flexibility. It is ideal for users who require a complete DAC solution with integrated headphone amplification, making it suitable for both home and professional use.
LA4 Line Amplifier
- Positioning: A high-end line amplifier designed to provide the ultimate analog signal path between a DAC and a power amplifier.
- Description: Features a fully relay-controlled gain stage with 256 steps, ensuring precise volume control and minimal noise. It is perfect for users who need a high-performance preamplifier without headphone outputs.
AHB2 Power Amplifier
- Positioning: A high-end power amplifier known for its ultra-low noise and distortion, making it a reference standard in audio amplification.
- Description: Uses THX-patented AAA technology to virtually eliminate distortion, providing a dynamic range of 132 dB. It is perfect for users who demand the highest fidelity in power amplification, suitable for driving difficult speaker loads with ease.
HPA4
- Positioning: A premium headphone and line amplifier, offering excellent audio fidelity with THX AAA technology.
- Description: Features the THX-888 amplifier design, providing ultra-low distortion and noise, making it ideal for critical listening environments. It is best suited for users who need both headphone and line amplification, offering excellent performance for high-impedance headphones and line-level outputs.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
28
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
102
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
6
Founding Year
1985
Our take on the brand
Benchmark Media Systems is renowned in both pro audio and audiophile circles for achieving extraordinarily low noise and distortion levels. Their products, including the AHB2 amplifier and HPA4 headphone amp, are designed to be compact and efficient while maintaining exceptional performance metrics, with their DAC3 HGC praised for its active harmonic compensation and low passband ripple.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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What if you spend more?
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Enleum
AMP-23R
6250
6250
/
19
Reviews
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. The unique design is the DNA of our new Enleum Brand and was already awarded the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021 and iF Design Gold Award 2022. The AMP-23R proudly showcases Enleum's expertise in technology and design.
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.
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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.
Product Page
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Feliks Audio
Envy
7345
7345
/
14
Reviews
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a blend of expertly crafted wood and metal, creating a visually striking and durable statement piece
- Dynamic, rich, and effortless sound with excellent detail, texture, and the right amount of tube magic
- Powerful output capable of driving demanding headphones while maintaining clarity and control
- Versatile performance with a variety of headphones (dynamic and planar) due to its output transformer design, often improving sound for warm or neutral headphones
- Value added by its ability to be used as a pre-amplifier in a stereo system
Product Considerations
- Large size and weight (around 15kg) require ample desk space and sturdy furniture
- Generates heat, which could be a concern in warmer environments without adequate ventilation
- Accidental switching of 'On/Off' is possible due to the touch-sensitive bar in the front not being intuitive, so use with care around pets
- Too powerful for some very sensitive IEMs, potentially resulting in overwhelming sound or audible hiss, though this is not the intended design for the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara, Envy empowers Susvara's natural presentation while giving it all the dynamics and slam needed
- Vs Cayin HA-300MkII, Envy exhibits more linear mid-to-high frequencies and offers a more transparent sound, while HA-300MkII has a warmer—more engaging midrange
- Vs AURIS Headonia 2A3, Envy performs at the same level, with technically incredibly strong aspects
- Vs Octave V 16, Envy completely demolishes the V 16 when it comes to energy, control, timbre, and resolution
- Vs Ferrum OOR, Envy is more powerful sounding, while also being more detailed with better tonality
Takeaway:
The Felix Audio Envy is a high-end headphone amplifier for audio enthusiasts who want the best quality sound to bring out the magic in their favorite headphones. Its stunning design and versatile performance make it a worthwhile addition to any serious audiophile setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
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Naim
Uniti Nova
6899
6899
/
13
Reviews
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Combines comprehensive functionality, connectivity and usability with good performance, and elegant design
- Exceptional sound quality is described as refined, muscular, detailed, confident, transparent, and natural
- Easy to use, has a great control app, a remote, and an intuitive interface that removes itself from the system
- Well-built with premium materials, including CNC-machined aluminum casework, finned heat sinks, and a hefty toroidal transformer
- Has a musicality that makes it hard to be objective about, the music flows as you listen and makes you want to repeat
Product Considerations
- Overheating may occur due to undersized heatsinks under demanding conditions
- Naim's speaker connectors may be unique, although banana plugs are an acceptable workaround
- Although a detail performer, it isn't the quietest digital source or imaging performer in the market
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Uniti Star: The Nova has a more substantial amplifier section, with greater current delivery and stability into tricky loads
- Vs SuperUniti: The Nova offers a more dynamic, detailed, fluid, and natural sound–with a bigger soundstage
- Vs Chord Electronics CPM2800 MkII: The Nova is closer spiritually to separates like the Chord CPM2800 MkII than to other all-in-one systems
- Vs NAD M10: The Naim Unit Nova has full unwavering control of the entire frequency range, from the deepest chest-thumping bass to the most delicate highs
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: The Nova has more power to get a good result in bigger rooms, whereas the Atom needs to be in a smaller room
Takeaway: The Naim Uniti Nova is a well-designed and easy-to-use all-in-one system that combines comprehensive functionality with very good sound quality. It's a good choice for those who want a convenient and high-performing audio solution without the complexity of separates.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
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Luxman
L-507Z
8995
8995
/
11
Reviews
Luxman’s new generation Z series integrated amplifiers. The L-507Z is the debut model heralding our new generation of amplifier products. Featuring our newly developed LIFES amplification feedback engine, we look towards the future of Luxman. This amplifier has realized a dramatic development in musicality that goes far beyond its class. L-507Z combines advanced technology and sophisticated functionality. Our new, innovative Z series integrated amplifier generation begins with this superb model.
Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
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Product Strengths
- Delivers music with a very pure, low-grain tonality, not compromised by frequency response or dynamic trickery
- Beautifully crafted with a traditional, recognizable Luxman aesthetic and excellent build quality
- Has enough power to drive a wide range of speakers
- Possesses a good moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono stage
- Features the new Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES) amplifier topology
Product Considerations
- The volume control can be finicky and hard to dial in
- Some reviewers wished it had separate phono inputs for MM and MC cartridges, instead of a selectable one
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Hegel H590, the Hegel has more relaxed sound, while the Luxman has a more forward presentation, brilliance and sheen—the Hegel had better bass control
- The 507Z is a step up from the Luxman L-507UX2 with improved aesthetics, including a new LED display
- Versus the Luxman L-590II (Class A), the L-590II is slightly warmer, but less dynamic
- Some 509X owners preferred the Luxman L-507Z
Takeaway: The Luxman L-507Z is a beautiful and well-built amplifier that produces pure, high-quality sound. It has enough power for most speakers and offers versatile features like tone controls and a phono stage, making it a great choice for an all-in-one audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
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What competes at this price?
Cambridge Audio
EVO 150
2999
/
Released
2021
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box. And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
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Naim
Uniti Atom Headphone Edition
3799
/
Released
2021
There is no easier way for you to get up close and personal with music than with the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition; put on your headphones, take yourself away, with no distractions. For even more flexibility, you can keep up to three headphones plugged in and switch sets depending on your listening preference.
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Product Page
Product Page
Audiolab
9000A
2999
/
Released
2022
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It's more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sonic clarity, detail resolution, and control
- Sturdy build and fine finish with solid casework and nicely damped
- Flexible product offering integrated, pre-amp, or pre-power combo options
- Balanced nature means that no particular genre of music is favored above any other
- Impressively equipped with a wide range of inputs including RCA, XLR, Coax, Optical, USB B, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and LDAC
Product Considerations
- Dynamic contrasts could be stronger
- Rhythmic drive could be stronger
- Phono stage a little flat-footed
- The display graphics on the screen can be on the small side to read from across a room
- Treble could be more exciting and dynamic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audiolab 6000A: Offers better instrumental separation, clarity of guitar strings, and a fuller bass response
- Vs Naim Nait XS3 or Rega Elicit Mk5: Delivers less entertainment and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000A is a capable and flexible amplifier offering sonic clarity and a range of features to slot easily into most systems. It charms and delights, never forcing music onto your ears but always upgrading the sound for great speaker performance.
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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Rega
Elicit MK5
3345
/
Released
2022
The all new Elicit MK5 stereo integrated amplifier is designed and built to the highest standard. Housed in our latest custom case to match the rest of the Rega range, the new MK5 builds on previous Rega designs by using our multi-award-winning Class A/B power amplifier circuit to deliver a powerful 105 W per channel into 8 Ω loads (127 W into 6 Ω). Our engineers have designed a new Rega DAC circuit offering digital connectivity and greater integration with a variety of other products. We have taken great care to incorporate a high-quality MM phono stage and the headphone output has been configured such that the speaker switching is performed by the output mute relay to avoid obstructing the signal path.
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Ground-breakingly different than its predecessor (Elicit-R) and the Elex R, integrating the Athos sound and signature
- Combines musicality with a real sense of propulsion
- Taut, punchy, clear sound with impressive clarity and detail
- Excellent built-in moving magnet phono stage, delivering enjoyable results across various music genres
- Internal DAC is of good quality, sitting comfortably beside the analogue line stages in quality, with lively and punchy character, strong detail levels, and dynamic contrasts
- Lacks USB input or Bluetooth connectivity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter than usual
- Can sound a little bright tonally, requiring careful speaker choice
- Volume control steps on the remote may be too large for precise adjustments
- Functional looking rather than stylish
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Roksan K2: The Elicit MK5 is a brawny amplifier with a full package for the audiophile journey
- Vs. Exposure 3510: The Elicit has a decent headphone option and the MM input, while the Exposure would suit if one already has a decent phono stage and a DAC in place
- Vs. Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x PA-10: While the Edge / PA-10 setup justifies its higher sticker, the Rega Elicit MK5 has a ballsier take on music
Takeaway: The Rega Elicit MK5 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a detailed, clear, and punchy sound, making music sound great and alive. With its integrated DAC and phono stage, it is ready to be the heart of any great listening setup.
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Our take on the brand
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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PrimaLuna
EVO 300 (Integrated)
4695
/
Released
2021
PrimaLuna is known for their hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state components, featuring their unique Adaptive AutoBias technology that automatically adjusts tube performance for optimal sound and longevity.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combines the tonal qualities of tubes with the power of solid-state amplification, combining the great aspects of both technologies
- Delivers a clean, detailed, dynamic, and musically insightful sound
- Well-built with high-quality components, including point-to-point wiring in the preamp section
- Includes a headphone amplifier powered by the same internal amp as the speakers, not an op-amp
- Multiple inputs and functions, including home theater bypass, subwoofer output, and tape output
Product Considerations
- Lacks balanced inputs and a pre-amplifier output
- The volume control can be very sensitive at low levels
- Optional MM phono stage requires additional purchase
- Requires good ventilation due to running warm
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x Gold Note PA-10 setup, the EVO 300 Hybrid delivers a level of engagement that was captivating, the improvement over the normal setup slightly disconcerting
- Versus Schiit Jotunheim, the PrimaLuna bested it, with a slightly cleaner sound that let a touch more detail through
Takeaway: The PrimaLuna EVO 300 Hybrid offers a balance of tube warmth and solid-state power to give listeners the best of both worlds. Its detailed sound, robust build, and versatility make it a worthwhile addition to any audiophile's system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
PrimaLuna is known for their hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state components, featuring their unique Adaptive AutoBias technology that automatically adjusts tube performance for optimal sound and longevity.
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