Boulder 866 (Amp): Reviews, Used Pricing, Competition

Watts Into 4ohms: 301W-400W

Brand details boulderamp.com

Apple Airplay

Specifications

INPUTS: 3 pairs balanced analog via 3-pin XLR
DIGITAL INPUTS: Ethernet, USB x 4, AES3 (adaptable to S/PDIF), Toslink (optical), WiFi
OUTPUTS: 0.25" (6 mm) binding posts
CONTINUOUS POWER, 8 OHMS: 200W per channel
PEAK POWER, 8 OHMS: 250W per channel
CONTINUOUS POWER, 4 OHMS: 400W per channel
PEAK POWER, 4 OHMS: 400W per channel
PEAK POWER, 2 OHMS: 700W per channel
DISTORTION, THD: 0.01%
EQUIVALENT INPUT NOISE (EIN), 20 kHz: 2 μV
INPUT IMPEDANCE: 100k ohms, balanced
MAXIMUM ANALOG GAIN: 40.4 dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE, 20-20 kHz: 0.00, -0.04 dB
FREQUENCY RESPONSE, -3 dB: 0.015 Hz, 150 kHz
POWER REQUIREMENTS: 100V, 120V, 240V, 50-60 Hz
POWER CONSUMPTION: 1000W maximum
DIMENSIONS: 17" W x 15.4 D x 7.25" H (44 cm W x 39 cm D x 19 cm H)
WEIGHT: 54 lbs. (24.5 kg)
SHIPPING DIMENSIONS: 24" W x 23" D x 14" H (61 cm H x 59 cm D x 36 cm H)
SHIPPING WEIGHT: 64 lbs. (29 kg)

Description

Two versions are available to suit any system: all-analog for more traditional systems and analog+digital for the streaming digital media listener

How do you follow up one of the most successful products in the history of a company? With a product that improves upon the original in every way, and the Boulder 866 Integrated does just that. Power is up to 200W per channel. Manufacturing is substantially more efficient. Weight has been reduced. New circuitry gives you greater current output at maximum power. External IP control has been added. There are versions for traditional systems as well as modern streaming media users. And a dedicated Boulder app easily enables you to manage everything. And here’s the best part: the sound is everything you would expect from a Boulder. It’s powerful, clean, clear, quick, and true to the sound of the original recording and the intents of the artists involved. In fact, there’s absolutely no reason not to take home an 866. It’s everything you could want and more.

Release Timeline

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:

Boulder prioritizes a "straight wire with gain" philosophy, focusing on neutrality and avoiding any specific sonic signature, allowing the source material to dictate the sound.
The brand is known for a distinct industrial design, often featuring topographical contours and heatsinks that are considered aesthetically pleasing.
They are committed to building all components in-house, including metalwork and circuit boards, to maintain exceptional quality control and durability, resulting in products with high secondary market value.
Boulder's products are designed for long-term use and reliability, withstanding daily use and long periods of being left on with excellent circuit protection, although power consumption can be high.

Select products

Select product comparisons

Boulder 861

Positioning: The entry-level model in Boulder's lineup, designed for smaller spaces and efficient systems.
Description: Offers a compact design with 75W peak power per channel, making it ideal for small rooms or setups where space is limited.

Boulder 1161

Positioning: A mid-range option, offering a balance between size and power for those who need more than the 861 but less than the 1160.
Description: Delivers 200W peak power per channel. It shares the same operational features as the larger 1160 but in a more manageable size.

Boulder 1160

Positioning: A high-performance model in the 1100 series, offering significant power and advanced features.
Description: With 300W per channel, it features improved thermal management and a new grounding system, setting it apart from the 1161 by offering greater power and clarity.

Boulder 2160

Positioning: A premium model in the 2100 series, offering top-tier performance and power.
Description: Provides 600W per channel, making it one of Boulder's most powerful amplifiers. It features a fully-balanced design and advanced thermal management, surpassing the 1160 in power and performance.

Boulder 3060

Positioning: The flagship model, representing the pinnacle of Boulder's amplifier technology.
Description: Delivering 900W per channel, the 3060 is designed for the ultimate audio experience, with unmatched power and precision. It features a pure Class A operation and extensive use of Boulder's highest performing gain stages.

See All Products

Avg. Product Price

$10,001-$20,000

Used For Sale

Available (Scroll Down)

Brand Popularity

126

of 900+

Badges

Top 50 Brand

Top 250 Brand

Products Listed

Founding Year

1984

Our take on the brand

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with

Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Gryphon

Diablo 333

24900

Reviews

Integrated amplifiers have become the essential audio component, distilling sources, amp, preamp and interconnects into a single chassis. And since 2015, connoisseurs have revered the Gryphon Diablo 300 as the finest integrated amplifier ever produced and a genuine “Object of Desire.” Unanimously praised by critics and with thousands sold, it became High End Audio’s most coveted “Ultra-Luxe” integrated.

Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.

Expand Details

Our summary

Watts Into 8ohms: 301W-400W

Watts Into 4ohms: 401W+

Product Strengths

Exceptional bass control, power, speed, and definition provides a bedrock foundation for the music
Wide and deep soundstage with precise imaging
Dead-neutral tonal balance with grain-free clarity, effortless speed, and precision
Life-like dynamic expression and detail resolution, sounding exquisitely lifelike
Lively, energetic sound combined with pleasing harmonics, warmth, and a kind of lusciousness achieves a nice balance

Product Considerations

The binding posts are located low on the rear panel, which might be problematic for some installations
It gets hot, requiring adequate ventilation
It's a heavy unit, making it difficult to move and set up
The cost is very high, making it exclusive-level hifi
The speaker spiked feet can make it difficult to position the amplifier

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

Vs Diablo 300, the Diablo 333 gives more music and musical information, developing the soundstage with harmonic information, knitting all the individual parts together; the music becomes less about individual things and more about the whole
Strong resemblance to the Apex Commander combination, but at a fraction of the cost
While the Antileon digs deeper and presents a fuller presentation across the low frequencies, the Diablo 333 slams harder and slightly tighter

Takeaway: The Gryphon Diablo 333 is a powerhouse integrated amplifier that combines exceptional power and control with refined sound and detailed musicality making it one of the very best amplifiers, be it integrated or not. Its versatility and musical soul make it a solid choice for anyone looking for an end-game component.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Burmester

032

25000

Reviews

The 032 Integrated Amplifier offers a wide variety of connectivity that far exceeds the normal range of integrated amplifiers. A PRE OUT output, for example, allows the connection of a separate power amplifier or the central volume control of different listening zones within a multi-room application. With its mighty 650 VA power supply the 032 Integrated Amplifier effortlessly delivers continuous high current in order to perfectly control even large speakers with low impedance and complex loads. Excellent special resolution and musicality are the hallmarks of the 032.

Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.

Expand Details

Our summary

Watts Into 4ohms: 101W-200W

Headphone Output

Product Strengths

Music is delivered without perturbation, showcasing a 'grip' on the music
A beautiful sonic palette is present, with a warm, detailed bass and very smooth, detailed highs
Understated approach to music replay is pure and precise, without coarseness or grain
Fabulously well made, with impressive build and finish
Volume control has a hefty, well-damped but very precise feel to it, and the amplifier's on-board software is quick to respond

Product Considerations

The headphone output is hidden on the rear panel, making it inconvenient to connect
Large and heavy (around 40kg), requiring sturdy equipment support and assistance when unpacking
The combination of heatsinks all-round and reflective chrome front panel may not be to all tastes
Highly transparent sources and speakers are required to get the best performance

Takeaway: The Burmester 032 integrated amplifier sounds exceptional with refined sound and impressive insight. If the system is talented, this amplifier could be a great match.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

AVIDHIFI

Sigsum

20252

Reviews

Driven by sound quality and our uncompromising approach to offer the best in class, the sensational SIGSUM Integrated was conceived.Our single chassis amplifier offers unparalleled performance for those that desire less clutter or with demands on their dwellings.

Musical Obsession

SIGSUM swiftly dispels any preconception that single chassis amplifiers limit performance. Condensing our reference designs into class leading premium products is our forte and its clarity and power will expose a musical revelation.

Lurking behind our trademark embellished front panel we have distilled, condensed and shoe-horned our reference technology into a singular monument to convey true musicality.

awesome

Incorporating our Pulsus phono stage solidifies our vinyl heritage and with a dedicated mains transformer giving independent power to each channel, your favourite records will sound outstandingly realistic.

Independently powering the Pre and dual mono amplifiers is a phenomenally large mains transformer and capacitor reservoir, delivering an unadulterated sound through the worlds best volume control to your ears. Simply Awesome.

AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.

Expand Details

Our summary

Headphone Output

Product Strengths

Very low noise floor creates a wide open and clear soundstage with excellent space between each musical element
Delivers subtle intricate details of music, the decays, and the harmonics
The built-in phono stage—the Pulsus—provides a clear and clean sound, allowing for a more open and see-through soundstage
The ALPS RK50 volume knob is satisfying to adjust with its stiff—yet smooth—resistance
The unit is handmade in the UK

Product Considerations

Limited number of inputs may not be sufficient for all users
Lacks a remote control, which may be inconvenient for some users
Awkward access to the underside cartridge adjustment for gain, resistance, and capacitance may be annoying to adjust
May emphasize upper vocals, which may not be ideal for all types of music, especially at louder volumes
The mid/upper bass may be a little shy, lacking the solidity, impact, and warmth that some listeners prefer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

The NAD M23 has a bolder, stronger, and punchier bass compared to the Sigsum
The McIntosh sounds more powerful, solid, secure, and full in terms of tone—and bigger overall—compared to the Sigsum
The Pulsus phono stage sounds clearer and cleaner than the Avid Pellar phono stage, but the Pellar sounds fuller and thicker

Takeaway: The Avid SigSum is a specialized amplifier that is designed for the audiophile who values the preservation of detail, particularly from vinyl playback. It's a great amplifier to highlight the nuances of music, while offering a clean and precise sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Trafomatic

Rhapsody

24122

Reviews

Rhapsody is the pinnacle of our decades of experience in developing State of the art valve amplifiers. The name itself is the expression of our devotion to the Music and the Art. By definition it implicates the profound roots and legacy to the ancient Greek Art of the rhapsodists in performing Epics, to the most modern compositions, where the one-movement work structure of highly contrasted moods, colours and tonality, is expansive and yet unified in structure. The 300B valves are a piece of great audio history that are represented in the Rhapsody in the best and most refined way. The naturalness, the drive, their tonality and rich colour pallets are unmistakable. All of those virtues are combined and moved a step further by Trafomatic dedication into the deep understanding of the cyrcuit. The result is a endlessness adventure in discovering undisclosed hidden places in your favorite recordings.

Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.

Expand Details

Our summary

Watts Into 8ohms: 5W-30W

Class: A

Product Strengths

Delivers a 'silky sheen' characteristic of SET designs, which helps to prevent listener fatigue
Offers a 'room-filling, full-blown' sound, especially with orchestral music
The Trafomatic Audio Rhapsody presents an 'expressive' and 'real' dynamic range, creating a live musical experience
Has an innate sense of melody that draws you into the musical mix, and an over-arching sense of sonic accuracy
Features auto-biasing and toggles for 'Mesh' and 'Solid' 300B tubes, for enthusiasts who wish to try different valves

Product Considerations

Limited wattage may restrict loudspeaker choices, requiring pairing with high-sensitivity models
Bass frequencies exhibit higher distortion at lower power outputs
The amplifier's modest S/N ratio suggests some mild background hiss may be audible
Bright red chassis is a fixed color scheme, which may not appeal to everyone
Reviews of the Rhapsody should be judged as very specific amplifier/speaker combos

Takeaway: The Trafomatic Rhapsody is a class act that draws attention to itself purely through its vivid and real sound. It plays music in such a way that one might never want to listen to anything else.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

What competes at this price?

Chord Electronics

Ultima Integrated

11700

Released

2023

The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a class-leading 125-watt integrated amplifier benefitting from the latest dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, Chord Electronics' legendary proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies, plus an unmistakable industrial aesthetic.

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

Astonishing agility, precision, and clarity
Spacious and uncluttered presentation
Sturdy build
Combines the precision and speed of older designs, but renders the sound with a naturalness
Provides plenty of power without compromising on detail or clarity

Product Considerations

Most rivals are better equipped
Can sound thin if partnered poorly
Could deliver stronger dynamic contrasts
The balance control has no center detent or marked position
No digital inputs or Wi-Fi

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

Vs Mark Levinson's No.5805 or PMC Cor, some may prefer the warmer, fuller presentation of rivals
Vs Naim Supernait 3, it doesn't track the music's rhythms with the skill of the Naim
Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivered undeniably elevated sound in all respects
Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, midrange, especially with vocals, was more lifelike through the Ultima Integrated—smoother and more liquid
Clear preference for Chord Ultima, especially the dynamics
Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord is more natural and closer to the CH Precision system in terms of tonality and neutrality

Takeaway: The Ultima Integrated offers much of the performance of Chord's pre/powers in a neat one-box solution, presenting a refreshingly straightforward product to use. The Chord Ultima Integrated is a thrilling and soothing amplifier capable of weaving a wonderfully spellbinding sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Hegel

H600

12500

Released

2023

H600 is our reference integrated amplifier. With its 303 watts in 8 ohms, a damping factor of 4000, and 2 ohms drive capability, this powerhouse of an amplifier can drive any speaker with confidence and ease. The amplifier is a dual mono design, bringing it as close as possible to the performance of two mono amps in a single box. It also boasts a state-of-the-art preamplifier with the extremely precise volume attenuator found in our reference P30A amplifier.

Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.

Expand Details

Our Summary

Watts Into 8ohms: 301W-400W

Google Chromecast

Product Strengths

Dual-mono design delivers 303W per channel into 8 ohms, providing power and control for any speaker
High damping factor of over 4000 ensures absolute control over speaker drivers, resulting in pristine sound reproduction
New DAC implementation based on ESS Sabre 9038Q2M chip offers pure audio fidelity without any resampling or upsampling
Supports streaming via Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and UPnP/DLNA

Product Considerations

Does not have a phonostage
Lacks an HDMI jack with ARC
The supplied RC10 remote is slender with tiny buttons
Weighs 22kg
Minimalist design may be a bit bland for some

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

Vs Bryston B135 SST 2, the H600 delivers more effortless presentation at high output
Vs McIntosh MA9500, the H600 has bigger sound, is crisper and has higher resolution

Takeaway: The H600 is a versatile and powerful integrated amplifier that excels in delivering high-quality audio from both digital and analog sources. Its robust amplification makes it a great choice for audiophiles seeking a simplified yet high-end audio solution.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Mola Mola

Kula

15055

Released

2021

Imagine a sleek, compact design that oozes class. Imagine an amplifier design that packs enough power to comfortably handle even the most demanding of loudspeakers. Imagine a complex yet agile and easy to use fully transparent line stage. Imagine every possible Phono EQ setting available from the comfort of your listening chair. Imagine a highly acclaimed discrete DAC boasting the best specs and sound around. Imagine, combining all of the above! Reality. Is. Kula!

Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.

Expand Details

Our Summary

Watts Into 4ohms: 201W-300W

Product Strengths

Exceptional audio quality from its line inputs, optional streaming DAC, and optional Phono stage
Stunning transparency, commendable focus, and open and airy sound staging
Inspired and seamless reproduction—with a spark of life quality
User-configurable phono stage that competes with pricey dedicated boxes
The DAC module, based on the Tambaqui, rivals many uber-expensive standalone units

Product Considerations

The Kula gets quite hot during operation, needing a decent amount of ventilation
The LEDs are very bright, and there is no way of turning them off
The remote is borrowed from Apple TV and is not refined enough to give decent control over volume
There is no coaxial digital input

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

The Kula sounds a little sweeter than Mola Mola Kaluga mono amplifiers
The Mola Mola Kula sounded like a sibling to Leben CS600

Takeaway: The Mola Mola Kula is a state-of-the-art, all-in-one amplification solution that brings music to life with transparent and life-sized sound. With optional modules, it becomes a highly versatile and elegant solution for audiophiles who want top performance in a single box.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

MOON

641

10999

Released

2023

A thrilling integrated amplifier and gateway to the North Collection.

MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.

Expand Details

Our Summary

Watts Into 4ohms: 201W-300W

Product Strengths

Stunningly handsome design and aesthetics, with a curvaceous chassis and easy-to-read display
Offers a rare sense of liberation and fluidity, allowing music to flow freely and cleanly
Delivers a wealth of transient definition, deep and solid bass, heaps of dynamic contrast, and plenty of timbral information
Capable of driving difficult speaker loads without issue
Excellent build quality and finish

Product Considerations

Lacks digital inputs, phono stage, and headphone output
Only has a single balanced input
May be considered minimalist in specification by some, especially considering the price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

It performs better than Moon 600i v2 and 700i v2 amplifiers, apart from ultimate power compared to 700i v2

Takeaway: The Moon 641 is a well-designed, high-performing integrated amplifier that prioritizes sound quality and ease of use. It is a good choice for those who appreciate a refined and engaging listening experience with a focus on analog sources.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Luxman

L-509Z

12495

Released

2023

Taking our Z-Series integrated amplifiers to a performance peak. As the premium model for the new Z-Series generation, the L-509Z has evolved beyond the concept of a traditional integrated amplifier. Both the preamplifier and power amplifier sections simultaneously use our new generation amplification feedback engine "LIFES" for the first time. The volume control is supported by our new "LECUA-EX" attenuator system that suppresses sound quality deterioration and realizes a more precise feel of operation.

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.

Expand Details

Our Summary

Watts Into 4ohms: 201W-300W

Product Strengths

Strikingly clean and detailed presentation
Plenty of power to drive difficult speaker loads, with close to doubling of output as impedance halves
Exceptionally well made with reassuringly solid casework and precise controls
Adaptable phono stage offering easy switching between MM and two MC options
Wonderfully unforced and natural performance at any listening level

Product Considerations

Needs care in system matching to avoid a slight lack of richness/body, tone controls can help
No impedance adjustment on the phono stage
Very large physically, which may pose placement issues
Plastic battery cover on the metal remote is a misstep in overall exemplary build

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

Compared to Moon by Simaudio 641 or McIntosh MA8950, the L-509Z has a slight lack of richness and body to the sound
Compared to McIntosh MA8950, the L-509Z requires separate source equipment—unlike the all-in-one MA8950
Compared to Vitus RI 101 Mk II, the Vitus is a bit more dynamic and slightly brighter—but costs significantly more without a sound difference worth the price
Compared to L-509X, the newer L-509Z is more dynamic and has more high-end sparkle

Takeaway: The Luxman L-509Z is a meticulously crafted and powerful integrated amplifier that delivers a refined and balanced sound. Its exceptional build quality and versatile features make it a worthwhile investment for audiophiles seeking a top-tier analog listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer