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
- Punchy and precise sound
- Aesthetically pleasing and understated for an affordable amp
- Expressive midrange
- Impressive clarity
- Good built-in moving magnet phono stage
- Connectivity options
Product Considerations
- No Bluetooth connectivity
- Remote control feels cheap
- Slight lack of bass grip when pushed and may not produce ground-shaking bass
- No internal DAC
- Tone controls are not subtle
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- AXA35 arguably sounds clearer and has a more neutral tonal balance than the Marantz PM6006 UK Edition
- The Cambridge AXA35 is superior to the NAD C 316BEE V2 with more neutral sounding loudspeakers that could use some color
Takeaway: The AXA35 is a great-sounding amplifier with a clean and detailed output, especially when paired with the right speakers. It's a smart buy for music lovers who want superior sound quality without needing wireless features or voice control.
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
AXA35
reviews
[{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35 review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/cambridge-audio-axa35","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35 Integrated Amplifier Reviewed","link":"https://audioappraisal.com/cambridge-audio-axa35-integrated-amplifier-reviewed","source":"Audio Appraisal","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35 Integrated Amplifier: Review","link":"https://www.ecoustics.com/reviews/cambridge-audio-axa35-integrated-amplifier","source":"Ecoustics","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35/AXC35","link":"https://www.hifichoice.com/content/cambridge-audio-axa35axc35","source":"Hi-Fi Choice","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35 review","link":"https://headfonics.com/cambridge-audio-axa35-review","source":"Headfonics","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Audio Review: Cambridge Audio AXA35 Integrated Amplifier - JAZZIZ Magazine","link":"https://jazziz.com/audio-review-cambridge-audio-axa35-integrated-amplifier","source":"JAZZIZ Magazine","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXC35 / AXA35 CD Player/Amplifier","link":"https://www.hifinews.com/content/cambridge-audio-axc35-axa35-cd-playeramplifier","source":"Hi-Fi News","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35 Review","link":"https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/cambridge-audio-axa35","source":"Trusted Reviews","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Cambridge Audio AXA35 Integrated Amplifier","link":"https://dailyhifi.com/cambridge-audio-axa35-integrated-amplifier","source":"Daily HiFi","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Entry Amplifier: Cambridge Audio AXA35 Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=milPXGgpoJ4","source":"A British Audiophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Review: Cambridge Audio AXA35 stereo integrated amp","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rJmRZaI0XE4","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Cambridge AXA 35 Integrated Amplifier Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gH3Gw4cJIuM","source":"Taps Das","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Cambridge AXA35...WHAT VALUE!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PAMa-6pNnqY","source":"Hifyed","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"The $350 Integrated Amp Comparison | Yamaha AS301 vs Cambridge Audio AXA35","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agNXgVza5Rk","source":"cheapaudioman","datePublished":"2022"}]
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
- Power Output: 35 Watts (into 8 Ohms)
- THD (unweighted): <0.01% @ 1kHz, 80% of rated power, <0.15% 20Hz - 20kHz, 80% of rated power
- Frequency response (-3dB): 5Hz - 50kHz
- S/N ratio (ref 1W): >82dB (unweighted)
- Input impedances: 47k ohms
- Power Amp damping factor: > 50
- Max. power consumption: 260W
- Bass/Treble controls: Shelving, ultimate boost/cut +/- 10dB @ 100Hz and 10kHz
- Standby power consumption: <0.5W
- Inputs: 4x RCA, 1x Phono, 1 x 3.5mm Aux input (front panel)
- Outputs: Speakers, Rec Out, USB 5V power
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 83 x 430 x 335mm (3.3 x 16.9 x 13.2")
- Weight: 5.6kg (12.3lbs)
Description
Sound Comes First
Our AXA35 integrated amp offers 35 watts per channel and has a built-in moving magnet phono stage – perfect for vinyl enthusiasts. A white LED dot matrix display confirms listening source, and separate tone controls mean you can adjust the sound to suit your taste. There’s a large ¼” (6.35mm) headphone socket too, ideal for high-quality listening without disturbing those who might not share your great taste in music.
AXA35 is the ideal amp to begin listening to music and really appreciating it – hearing detail in familiar tunes you’ve previously missed. That’s down to the toroidal transformer it uses, a tech found higher up our range. Choose a pair of speakers to suit your taste, perhaps they’ve been in the family for years or maybe something from our SX Series.
AXA35 next to a turntable
Release the Wheels of Steel
The built-in phono stage is the ace up AXA35’s sleeve. It means that you can plug a turntable straight in without any extra kit. Moving magnet (MM) compatibility means AXA35 works with a wide variety of turntables – including that vintage one you’ve had your eye on. Soon you’ll be playing the records you’ve been saving for, and planning what to buy next.
A man adjusting the volume knob of AXA35
Setting the Tone
With separate bass and treble controls, you can fine-tune AXA35’s sound to suit your taste, speakers and room dynamics. The volume level is shown on the LED dot matrix display, and with 35 watts per channel you’ll have plenty of kick for smaller to medium sized rooms.
Someone connecting a cable to AXA35's back
Wired for Sound
AXA35 is a well-connected amp, with no less than 4 pairs of RCA inputs, plus a pair of phono sockets for a turntable and a pair of recording outputs. There’s a rear USB socket for technical upgrades. Hi-fi quality speaker binding posts (connectors), compatible for banana plugs, mean that thick cable connects securely for an authentic sound.
AXA35 and AXC35 setup with Cambridge Audio speakers
Designed for Life
As with the rest of AX Series, AXA35 shares our house-style of Lunar Grey minimalist fascia, black steel cabinet and ‘floating’ base. This timeless look enables an upgrade path through our range. A slim build, in the classic 430mm hi-fi width, also means that AXA35 can easily slot, and breathe new life, into a much-loved system.
Our AXA35 integrated amp offers 35 watts per channel and has a built-in moving magnet phono stage – perfect for vinyl enthusiasts. A white LED dot matrix display confirms listening source, and separate tone controls mean you can adjust the sound to suit your taste. There’s a large ¼” (6.35mm) headphone socket too, ideal for high-quality listening without disturbing those who might not share your great taste in music.
AXA35 is the ideal amp to begin listening to music and really appreciating it – hearing detail in familiar tunes you’ve previously missed. That’s down to the toroidal transformer it uses, a tech found higher up our range. Choose a pair of speakers to suit your taste, perhaps they’ve been in the family for years or maybe something from our SX Series.
AXA35 next to a turntable
Release the Wheels of Steel
The built-in phono stage is the ace up AXA35’s sleeve. It means that you can plug a turntable straight in without any extra kit. Moving magnet (MM) compatibility means AXA35 works with a wide variety of turntables – including that vintage one you’ve had your eye on. Soon you’ll be playing the records you’ve been saving for, and planning what to buy next.
A man adjusting the volume knob of AXA35
Setting the Tone
With separate bass and treble controls, you can fine-tune AXA35’s sound to suit your taste, speakers and room dynamics. The volume level is shown on the LED dot matrix display, and with 35 watts per channel you’ll have plenty of kick for smaller to medium sized rooms.
Someone connecting a cable to AXA35's back
Wired for Sound
AXA35 is a well-connected amp, with no less than 4 pairs of RCA inputs, plus a pair of phono sockets for a turntable and a pair of recording outputs. There’s a rear USB socket for technical upgrades. Hi-fi quality speaker binding posts (connectors), compatible for banana plugs, mean that thick cable connects securely for an authentic sound.
AXA35 and AXC35 setup with Cambridge Audio speakers
Designed for Life
As with the rest of AX Series, AXA35 shares our house-style of Lunar Grey minimalist fascia, black steel cabinet and ‘floating’ base. This timeless look enables an upgrade path through our range. A slim build, in the classic 430mm hi-fi width, also means that AXA35 can easily slot, and breathe new life, into a much-loved system.
Sound Comes First
Our AXA35 integrated amp offers 35 watts per channel and has a built-in moving magnet phono stage – perfect for vinyl enthusiasts. A white LED dot matrix display confirms listening source, and separate tone controls mean you can adjust the sound to suit your taste. There's a large ¼" (6.35mm) headphone socket too, ideal for high-quality listening without disturbing those who might not share your great taste in music. AXA35 is the ideal amp to begin listening to music and really appreciating it – hearing detail in familiar tunes you've previously missed. That's down to the toroidal transformer it uses, a tech found higher up our range. Choose a pair of speakers to suit your taste, perhaps they've been in the family for years or maybe something from our SX Series. AXA35 next to a turntable
Release the Wheels of Steel
The built-in phono stage is the ace up AXA35's sleeve. It means that you can plug a turntable straight in without any extra kit. Moving magnet (MM) compatibility means AXA35 works with a wide variety of turntables – including that vintage one you've had your eye on. Soon you'll be playing the records you've been saving for, and planning what to buy next.A man adjusting the volume knob of AXA35
Setting the Tone
With separate bass and treble controls, you can fine-tune AXA35's sound to suit your taste, speakers and room dynamics. The volume leve...
Our AXA35 integrated amp offers 35 watts per channel and has a built-in moving magnet phono stage – perfect for vinyl enthusiasts. A white LED dot matrix display confirms listening source, and separate tone controls mean you can adjust the sound to suit your taste. There's a large ¼" (6.35mm) headphone socket too, ideal for high-quality listening without disturbing those who might not share your great taste in music. AXA35 is the ideal amp to begin listening to music and really appreciating it – hearing detail in familiar tunes you've previously missed. That's down to the toroidal transformer it uses, a tech found higher up our range. Choose a pair of speakers to suit your taste, perhaps they've been in the family for years or maybe something from our SX Series. AXA35 next to a turntable
Release the Wheels of Steel
The built-in phono stage is the ace up AXA35's sleeve. It means that you can plug a turntable straight in without any extra kit. Moving magnet (MM) compatibility means AXA35 works with a wide variety of turntables – including that vintage one you've had your eye on. Soon you'll be playing the records you've been saving for, and planning what to buy next.A man adjusting the volume knob of AXA35
Setting the Tone
With separate bass and treble controls, you can fine-tune AXA35's sound to suit your taste, speakers and room dynamics. The volume leve...
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:
- Cambridge Audio incorporates high-quality components, such as toroidal transformers and ESS Sabre DAC chips, but they make sure that the components are chosen for their sonic character, rather than measured performance.
- With some lines receiving 5-year warranties with product registration, they convey a commitment to product durability, even when their products are sold through hifi stores, which are not generally known for high-end clientele.
Select products
Select product comparisons
AXA25
- Positioning: The entry-level integrated stereo amplifier in Cambridge Audio's lineup.
- Description: Offers a straightforward design with 25 watts per channel, making it ideal for small rooms and budget-conscious users. Unlike the more advanced models like the EXA100, it lacks digital inputs and Bluetooth connectivity, focusing instead on simplicity and analog connections, which suits users who prioritize basic functionality over advanced features.
Evo 75
- Positioning: The mid-range streaming amplifier in the Evo series.
- Description: Combines streaming capabilities with a powerful 75-watt amplifier, offering a compact solution for modern audio needs. It features the StreamMagic Gen 4 module for seamless streaming, unlike the AXA25, which lacks streaming capabilities.
EXA100
- Positioning: The high-end integrated amplifier in the EX series, offering advanced features and performance.
- Description: Delivers 100 watts per channel with Class AB amplification, providing a wide and detailed soundstage. It includes digital inputs like HDMI eARC and Bluetooth aptX HD, unlike the AXA25, which focuses on analog connections.
Edge A
- Positioning: The flagship integrated amplifier in Cambridge Audio's lineup, representing the pinnacle of their audio engineering.
- Description: Features proprietary Class XA amplification and twin toroidal transformers for exceptional power and clarity. It offers a more refined sound than the EXA100, with a focus on musicality and detail.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
246
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
9
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
40
Founding Year
1968
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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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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What if you spend more?
Arcam
A5
699
699
/
6
Reviews
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Pleasant, smooth, and relaxed playback
- More insight and tightness in the music
- Much insight into sound and musical structure
- A fresh and modern-looking product with a clean and unfussy exterior, which looks simple yet elegant
- Manages a difficult balancing act superbly—forgiving enough not to emphasise the shortcomings of limited partnering equipment, yet still having the insight and transparency to make the most of more capable signals
Product Considerations
- The front panel display lacks crispness due to the 'frosted' finish
- The speaker terminals don't offer a great deal of space
- The back panel itself shows a certain amount of flexibility, which is a little worrying in terms of longevity
- The power on paper is a little optimistic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Atoll IN50: The Atoll plays a bit bigger, but Arcam gives more insight and tightness
- Vs Cambridge Audio Azur 840A: The Arcam A5's midrange and voice reproduction that the Cambridge just couldn't quite match
Takeaway: The Arcam A5 is a well-rounded performer that plays music enjoyably without getting in the way and is affordable, feature-rich and uncomplicated. It is a great amp for someone looking for a balance of performance and features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Arcam is a hifi brand known for its unique Class G amplifier technology, which uses multiple power supplies that switch based on demand to achieve both high efficiency and pure Class A sound at low volumes. Their AV receivers and processors stand out for their use of Dirac Live Bass Control technology, which precisely optimizes subwoofers to improve in-room performance and reduce room modes.
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Rotel
A10MKII
599
599
/
1
Reviews
The A10MKII Integrated Amplifier offers the perfect combination of power and style for the music lover seeking to elevate their listening experience. Constructed with a massive Rotel-built toroidal transformer, the A10MKII delivers 50 Watts per channel of Class A/B power into 8 ohms featuring three RCA inputs and a Moving Magnet Phono stage for vinyl lovers.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a robust aluminum facade
- Delivers 40 watts per channel of clean, musical power in pure Class AB
- Characterized by natural tonal balance, excellent micro-dynamics, and precise imaging
- Offers versatile analog connectivity with 5 RCA inputs, a dedicated MM phono stage, a 3.5mm auxiliary input, and tape output
- Delivers excellent value for money and simple, intuitive operation
Product Considerations
- Lacks digital inputs, which maintains signal purity
- Does not have a headphone output
- Power output may not suit very large rooms
Takeaway: The Rotel A10MKII offers pure analog amplification with musicality and engaging sound, making it great for both new and experienced audiophiles. Its clean sound and quality build make it a compelling choice for enjoying music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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Advance Paris
X-i50 BT
799
799
/
1
Reviews
The X-i50BT, with its resolutely audiophile design, allows the connection of many analog sources including the possibility of using a vinyl turntable. For users of dematerialized music contained in computers and other Smartphones or tablets, it has an integrated Bluetooth receiver that allows wireless communication with the X-i50 BT. The X-i50 BT integrated amplifier delivers 2 x 50 Watts RMS on 8Ω, and its High Bias operating mode will allow it to easily power most speakers on the market.
Advance Paris is known for integrating tube preamps with solid-state amplification, delivering a warm and dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands like McIntosh, while offering rare features like HDMI ARC connectivity in their stereo amplifiers. Their products stand out with illuminated VU meters and dual-mono designs using separate toroidal transformers for each channel, while providing high-end features like built-in DACs and phono stages at mid-range prices.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality due to class A type technology
- A fair selection of analogue inputs, including a turntable input
- Stylish design with a perspex front fascia and steel case
- Detailed and engaging sound
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming from smart devices
Product Considerations
- USB input only offers MP3 playback
- Class A type technology runs at higher temperatures
Takeaway: The X-i50BT is a good amp that can drive speakers well and sounds great. It has many ways to connect devices, making it a useful addition to any audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Advance Paris is known for integrating tube preamps with solid-state amplification, delivering a warm and dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands like McIntosh, while offering rare features like HDMI ARC connectivity in their stereo amplifiers. Their products stand out with illuminated VU meters and dual-mono designs using separate toroidal transformers for each channel, while providing high-end features like built-in DACs and phono stages at mid-range prices.
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ELAC
DS-A101-G
631
631
/
1
Reviews
ELAC is a hifi brand known for its unique connectivity options in powered speakers, including HDMI ARC at accessible price points, and its proprietary JET tweeter technology that uses a folded ribbon design. The brand's speakers, from bookshelf to floor-standing models, consistently deliver high performance through their crystal membrane drivers and JET tweeters, making them a reliable choice for value-conscious audiophiles.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Very good built-in DAC
- Sounds good at low volumes
- Voices are reproduced closely to much bigger and more expensive amps
- Midrange is well-tuned, especially with Elac speakers
- Elac speakers produce a lot of bass
- Has very good connectivity options
Product Considerations
- A tiny, but audible amount of hiss comes from the tweeter when using the amp
- The Elac app is not flawless yet
Takeaway: The Elac DS-A101-G is a good-looking streaming amplifier with a very good DAC, that sounds great with Elac speakers and has a well-tuned midrange for voice reproduction. Its compact footprint and ease of use make it a good option for those looking to simplify their setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ELAC is a hifi brand known for its unique connectivity options in powered speakers, including HDMI ARC at accessible price points, and its proprietary JET tweeter technology that uses a folded ribbon design. The brand's speakers, from bookshelf to floor-standing models, consistently deliver high performance through their crystal membrane drivers and JET tweeters, making them a reliable choice for value-conscious audiophiles.
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What competes at this price?
Rotel
A11 Tribute
489
/
Released
2021
The A11 Tribute is a Class AB 50W (8 ohms) Integrated Amplifier developed in cooperation with the audio engineering legend Ken Ishiwata as a Tribute to his legacy spanning over 40 years in the industry. The collaboration between Ken and Rotel's own engineering design teams delivered on the promise of an even higher level of performance of the extremely successful and popular award-winning A11.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Refined sound quality, better across the board compared to competitors in the same range
- Great texture and grip in the bass, controlling the low end of speakers well
- Built-in moving magnet phono stage and four RCA analog inputs
- Bluetooth with aptX and AAC support
Product Considerations
- Appears susceptible to electrical noise or ground loop hum, requiring experimentation to eliminate it
- DAC is only accessed by Bluetooth—there are no digital inputs or outputs
- Soundstage isn't the largest, and there's not much layering, resulting in a 2D sound
- Moving magnet input doesn't perform as well as the rest of the amp
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio AXR-100: The A11 Tribute focuses on refined sound quality, whereas the AXR-100 prioritizes value and features
- Vs NAD C338: The A11 Tribute has slightly better detail and focus, along with greater dynamic snap
Takeaway: The Rotel A11 Tribute is a fantastic amplifier for those who want refined sound quality without excessive features. It delivers great performance and is well worth the investment for a focused and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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Fosi
T3
129
/
Released
Fosi Audio T3 is a Hi-Fi Bluetooth 5.0 stereo tube amplifier that offers a warm and natural sound quality, superb audio fidelity, and efficiency. You can build a 2.1CH home sound system to hook 2 passive speakers+1 powered subwoofer through T3 to get hifi music enjoyment.
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fosi Audio makes quality hifi accessible worldwide by offering a diverse range of amplifiers, preamps, and DACs that blend modern engineering with vintage-inspired design. Their products are engineered for versatility and power, serving both audiophiles and gamers with impressive performance at competitive prices. With a strong reputation built on solid reviews and customer focus, Fosi Audio stands out as a go-to brand for enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound without breaking the bank.
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iFi
GO blu
199
/
Released
2021
With Hi-Fi inspired architecture featuring dedicated Bluetooth, DAC, and Amp stages, the ultra-portable GO blu offers the best of both worlds – wireless freedom, paired with the clarity of wired sound.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and expansive presentation, offering a sonic upgrade to phones, especially when portability is a priority
- Versatile, with both wired and wireless connectivity options, including balanced and unbalanced headphone outputs
- Impressively small size and lightweight design, making it pocket-friendly and convenient for on-the-go use
- Sound quality is generally linear, with fast and accurate bass, flat and clean mids, and a detailed treble that is not harsh
- XBass and XSpace features offer customized listening experiences
- Build quality and aesthetics are generally well-received, with its design standing out from other devices
- ChronoDial volume knob is particularly praised for its tactile feel and functionality
Product Considerations
- Black rubberized plastic casing can feel a bit flimsy to some users
- Some reviewers noted hiss with sensitive IEMs, especially on the balanced output
- Battery life estimation can be unreliable
- No dedicated app for the device, limiting EQ and DSP options
- Lacks a clip, making it less convenient for truly portable use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Audiolab M-DAC Nano, the Go Blu offers a wider soundstage, better separation, and dynamic sensitivity, though the M-DAC Nano is fractionally punchier in the bass
- Compared to the AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt, the Go Blu is a wireless proposition, unlike the DragonFly Cobalt, which is a USB plug-in DAC
- Compared to the FiiO Q3, the iFi GO blu highs are a bit too brilliant, but everything else sounded quite impressive
- Compared to the NuPrime Hi-mDAC, the iFi GO Blu mids sound a lot like it, even if voices are slightly less natural
- Compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro and Aune BU2, the GO Blu provides a relaxed sound and has better build and functionality compared to the Hidizs S9 Pro, but is better when using bluetooth compared to Aune BU2, however when competing on wired terms, the Aune is clearer
Takeaway: The iFi GO blu is a tiny but mighty device that delivers impressive sound and versatility—improving the wireless music experience. It is easy to use and has some cool features, making it a good pick for anyone looking for a portable upgrade for their headphones.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
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SMSL
AO200 MK II
341
/
Released
2024
AO200 MKⅡ Stereo amplifier features a new digital high-power amplifier chip MA5332 from Infineon, Germany, offering higher quality with high efficiency and low power consumption. It uses NJRC's electronic volume control chip NJW1194 from Japan for precise volume control and low distortion.
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a neutral and transparent sound signature, providing an accurate representation of the source material
- Offers plenty of power for its size, capable of driving even demanding bookshelf speakers without losing composure
- Features built-in EQ presets and bass/treble tone controls for customizing the sound
- Built with high-quality materials, featuring an aluminum alloy chassis that is both durable and lightweight
- Has versatile connectivity options, including balanced XLR inputs, RCA inputs, USB input, and Bluetooth
Product Considerations
- Internal DAC and Bluetooth performance are underwhelming compared to the amplifier section
- The stock SBC Bluetooth codec limits wireless audio streaming quality
- EQ settings can be confusing and require some experimentation to dial in a balanced sound
- The volume knob might be slightly wobbly
- The power cord could be too short for some setups and might need to be replaced
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MKII offers nearly double the power output and sounds more dynamic than the SMSL AO200 (original)
- Compared to the Yamaha A-670, the AO200 MKII offers more detail and soundstage, though the Yamaha is warmer and more forgiving
- The AO200 MKII has higher driving power, a more dynamic sound, and lower distortion than the Arylic A50+
- The AO200 MKII offers a more palpable and lifelike sound than the Topping PA5
- The AO200 MKII has better driving power at times, better EQ with no degradation, and is a better value than the Burson Funk
Takeaway: The SMSL AO200 MKII is a compact and powerful stereo amplifier with a neutral sound, making it a solid option for those who want clean sound, plenty of connectivity options, and customization features. It is a good value that can improve the sound of many speaker setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SMSL, a Shenzhen-based hifi brand, stands out for its use of advanced chipsets like Infineon's MERUS and ES9039Q2M, which have been objectively verified to deliver exceptionally low noise and distortion levels. The brand has earned acclaim from value-conscious audiophiles.
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Topping
G5
299
/
Released
2022
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Phenomenal sound quality.
- Very usable and enjoyable interaction due to a physical volume knob.
- Plenty of power for almost everything and can drive just about anything.
- Versatile; it can be used as a desktop all-in-one, a Bluetooth portable DAC/amp, a portable amplifier, and even a DAC for speakers.
Product Considerations
- Susceptible to EMI noises, which can be a deal breaker; static noises, pops, and crackle sounds can occur when a phone is placed directly on top of it.
- Not a completely balanced architecture; the 3.5mm & 4.4mm headphone outputs sound the same.
- Charging port may not indicate charging on anything higher than an 18W charging block, and some chargers may not work.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FIIO BTR-7: Sounds more refined and has more detail and resolution.
- Vs SMSL C200: The C200 sounds significantly warmer with a fuller, juicier bass line and a little bit more airy, while the G5 is more focused on clean and clear edges, tidy, well-focused—and clean.
- Vs SMSL M500 MK2: The M500 MK2 sounds overall better with dynamics at the same level as the G5 and fuller, warmer tonality—and a bigger, more spacious soundstage.
- Vs Moondrop Moonriver 2: The treble is more refined, better details up top, and a sharp edge without being overboard like the Moonriver 2 can.
Takeaway: The G5 is a well-built and versatile portable DAC/amp with a neutral, clean, and dynamic sound. It is great for those looking for an all-in-one solution that can drive almost any headphone or IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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