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
- Offers a 'seductive, silky mid-range' where voices live
- The top end is extended but smooth, making it not a bright amp that would fatigue the ears
- The headphone amp is 'quite good' and comparable to higher-dollar headphone amps
- It has a dedicated subwoofer output on the back, making it easy to hook up a subwoofer
- Upgraded from the standard FX-10, it's been improved with better ventilation and tweaked circuit to create less heat, and it also comes with upgraded stock tubes
Product Considerations
- The FX-10H runs pretty warm, although improved ventilation helps
- It is 12 watts per channel
Takeaway: The FX-10H is a well-made, easy-to-use tube amplifier that delivers a beautiful, rich, and musical sound. It is a great choice for anyone wanting to experience the warmth and depth of tube amplification.
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Manufacturer details
- Maximum Power Output: 12 WPC at 8 ohms, 26Hz to 50KHz with EL84 Tubes, 14 WPC at 8 ohms, 26Hz to 50KHz with 7189 tubes
- Rated Output Power: 10 WPC at 8 ohms, 26Hz to 50KHz with EL84 Tubes, 12 WPC at 8 ohms, 26Hz to 50KHz with 7189 tubes
- Frequency Response: 17Hz to 37KHz + 1dB (at 1 watt into 8 ohms)
- Bandwidth: 14Hz to 50KHz + 3dB; 0dB = 10 W 1KHz, 8 ohms
- Distortion THD: Less than 1% at 10 W output, 39Hz to 10KHz, 8 ohms
- Circuit Type: Single Ended - Class A
- Inputs: 2x RCA and 1x 3.5mm Line In
- Input Impedance: 100Kohms
- Input Sensitivity: Max. 670 mV for 10 watt output at 1KHz
- Output Impedance: 4 ohms and 8 ohms
- Negative Feedback: Less than 11 dB
- Noise and Hum: 91 dB below rated output from 10Hz to 200Khz
- Tube Complement: 4 x EL84 power output; 2 x 12AX7A/ECC83
- Power Requirements: 110V-120 VAC 60Hz 6 watts-standby, 350 watts maximum (220 VAC 50Hz option)
- Dimensions: 8 inches wide by 7 inches deep by 7 inches high
- Weight: 12 pounds net, approximately 16 pounds packaged
- Bias Settings: Self-biasing
- Fuse: 110 - 120 VAC, 2 Amp Slow Blow; 200 - 240 VAC, 1 Amp Slow Blow, Size 5mm X 20mm
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:
Select products
Black Ice FX10 Integrated
- Positioning: The entry-level integrated amplifier in the Black Ice lineup.
- Description: Offers a compact design with a 3D soundstage, making it ideal for small rooms or desktop setups. Features a self-biasing circuit and a headphone output, which are not available in the more powerful F11 and F35 models, making it a great choice for those who prioritize convenience and simplicity over raw power.
Black Ice Fusion F11 Integrated
- Positioning: A mid-range integrated amplifier, offering more power and features than the FX10.
- Description: Stands out with its Odyssey Circuit, providing a balance of transparency and musicality, which is a step up from the FX10's simpler design. Includes a subwoofer output and multiple RCA inputs, offering more connectivity options than the FX10.
Black Ice Fusion F35 Integrated
- Positioning: A high-end integrated amplifier, offering significant power and advanced features.
- Description: Features a dual-phase V-drive circuit and supports a variety of power tubes, providing flexibility and superior sound quality compared to the F11. Its ability to drive inefficient speakers with ease makes it suitable for larger rooms.
Black Ice Fusion F100 Monoblock
- Positioning: The flagship monoblock power amplifier, designed for maximum power and performance.
- Description: The F100's groundbreaking Odyssey Circuit and high power output make it capable of driving any speaker with authority, surpassing the integrated models in sheer power. Its bridgable design and XLR inputs offer exceptional flexibility and scalability.
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Black Ice
What if you spend more?
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.
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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
Product Strengths
- Retains the enthusiastic sonic character of the original Nait 1, described as zippy, energetic, and likeable, with ample detail and clarity
- Has an all-new discrete transistor MM phono stage
- Has a new headphone amplifier borrowed from the NSC 222 streaming preamp
- Possesses ample grunt to drive a wide variety of speakers
- Features a retro-modern design that is charming and timeless, with solid build quality
Product Considerations
- Has no remote control
- The volume dial makes subtle volume adjustments difficult, going from quiet to loud too quickly
- Uses DIN connectors for the line-level analogue inputs, requiring adaptors for RCA connections, but no DIN cable is included
- On powering up, a thump is followed by a plop when switching in from standby
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Naim Nait XS 3: Nait 50 is punchier, cleaner, more precise, and lively
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: NAIT 50 feels more old school Naim
Takeaway: The Naim Nait 50 offers a fun and engaging listening experience with a retro design that will fit in any listening room, either old or new. It can serve as a workhorse in a reference system and headphone rig.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity, including network streaming, CD player, phono stage, and digital inputs
- Entertaining, expressive, and punchy sound
- Easy to use, with a well-designed app and a sensible remote handset
- Good MM phono stage
- Compact and elegant design
Product Considerations
- Setting up without the app can be clumsy
- The headphone output may not be ideal
- The line-level input could sound better
Takeaway: The SA-C600 is a well-featured and easy-to-use system with great sound, so listeners can enjoy their music from many different sources. It is a compact and convenient way to enjoy high-quality audio without clutter.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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An Epic Grand Tourer In 2023, we are enhancing the epic Soloist 3/3X GT with even cleaner power and superior signal path, pushing their performance to new heights. Symmetrical through and through Don’t judge a book by its cover, but you can judge circuitry by its layout. Inside the GT, two separate mono amps create a symmetrical power setup. The result? A mesmerising soundstage and incredible detail that will leave you in awe!
Product Strengths
- Very clean, transparent sound, faithfully mirroring the source material and capable of resolving micro-details
- Ample power to drive even the most demanding headphones, with refined power that allows nuances to play on the micro scale, especially with high-performance DACs
- Great soundstage size
- The noise floor has been lowered with the newest power modules resulting in more clarity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter
- High listening volumes can cause ears to ring
- Some reviewers found that the soundstage depth was limited compared to some other amplifiers
- Can reveal harshness in recordings or other equipment in the chain
- Noise may be present when used with very sensitive IEMs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Treble is more natural compared to the Old Soloist 3XGT, while bass and midrange are more textured
- The newer version has greater separation and clarity compared to the Old Soloist 3XGT, while the older version sounds a little thicker overall
- Much more clear than Exposure 21 pre and 18 super monoblocks
- It has better clarity, grip and control than Hegel H190
- It can match the Denafrips Hades Thalo in clarity
- The SP-2 upgraded Soloist goes toe-to-toe with the Enleum AMP23R
Takeaway: The Soloist recgviNbkfbno9pQR is a very capable headphone amplifier that provides a clean and powerful sound, suitable for a wide range of headphones. The lower noise and detail retrieval make it a very good choice for audiophiles seeking a high-performance listening experience.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Noted for its impossibly small and ultra-compact size, making it suitable for compact living spaces
- Offers a feature-rich design with an integrated phono stage, aptX HD Bluetooth connectivity, and additional RCA and TOSLINK digital inputs
- The unit runs cool due to its Class D amplifier design, making it energy-efficient
- Connectivity is praised, particularly the aptX HD Bluetooth, which delivers superior streaming quality
- Delivers a lively and engaging sound with excellent detail across phono and digital connections
Product Considerations
- The limited power output (23W at 8 ohms, 40W at 4 ohms) may be better suited to smaller listening spaces and efficient loudspeakers
- Some reviewers found the bass to be slightly lean, lacking heft or roundness
- The included remote control's button configuration for volume and input selection is unconventional
- The phono stage may benefit from an upgrade with an external phono amplifier for improved performance
- One reviewer found the line out voltage for the subwoofer is not strong enough to drive a powered sub
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Pro-Ject Stereobox DS2, the MaiA S3 is more affordable and has digital inputs and superior Bluetooth connectivity
- Compared to the Rega Io, the MaiA S3 has strength in depth—specifically referring to the detail across the line, phono and digital connections
- The MaiA S3 is described as more resolving and ultra clean compared to the Rotel amplifier, with the Rotel offering a slightly more colored and warm sound
- Compared to the Technics amplifier, moving to the MaiA S3 results in a faster transit response, especially noticeable in classical music, while the Technics sounds slow in comparison
Takeaway: The Pro-Ject MaiA S3 is a compact and versatile integrated amplifier that delivers impressive sound quality and a range of connectivity options, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles with limited space. It is especially appealing to vinyl enthusiasts looking for a convenient and high-performing solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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
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
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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.
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