Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • Combines tube preamplifier with solid-state power amplifier for a blend of sound characteristics, offering the 'best of both worlds' in one unit
  • Enough power for most listening situations with 150Wpc at 4 Ohms
  • Modern and sleek design, carefully crafted
  • Well-executed remote control

Product Considerations

  • Needs a break-in period of around 30 hours for optimal performance
  • Does not include a phono stage, requiring a separate unit for vinyl playback
  • Some controls on the remote may be for other Canor products
  • Volume could be dialed in early, but if played too loudly on some repertoire, coherence was diminished
  • Some reviewers found the amplifier had a slight hard edginess to higher frequencies

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Naim SuperNait 3: The Naim is a bit more laid back than the Canor and may have a touch more detail, while the Canor has more 'vigor' in the upper mids and treble
  • Vs Avid Hifi Integra: The Avid Hifi and Canor have some similarities in their reproduction qualities, but the Canor is more affable and almost half the price

Takeaway: The Canor AI 2.10 offers a mix of tube and solid-state sound in one device, providing great music quality. It's a good-looking amplifier that can make music sound lively.

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

Canor AI 2.10

reviews

[{"title":"Canor AI 2.10 Integrated Hybrid Amplifier","link":"https://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2023/11/29/canor-ai-210-integrated-hybrid-amplifier","source":"Audiophilia","datePublished":""},{"title":"Canor AI 2.10 Hybrid Integrated Amplifier evaluated","link":"https://www.thesoundadvocate.com/2022/01/canor-ai-2-10-hybrid-integrated-amplifier-evaluated","source":"The Sound Advocate","datePublished":""},{"title":"Canor AI 2.10 Hybrid Stereo Integrated Amplifier ...","link":"https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0321/Canor_AI_210_Hybrid_Stereo_Integrated_Amplifier_Review.htm","source":"Enjoy the Music","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Output power: 2 x 150 W / 4 Ω
  • Input sensitivity: 400 mV / 150 W / 1 kHz
  • Frequency range: (20 – 20 000) Hz ±0,53dB / 5 W
  • Input impedance: 30 kΩ
  • Inputs: 4 x RCA, 2 x XLR
  • Total Harmonic Distortion: <0,02% / 1 kHz, 5 W
  • Signal-to-noise ratio: > 95 dB
  • Tube complement: 2 x 6922
  • Power: 230 V / 50 Hz / 450 VA
  • Dimensions (w x h x d): 435 x 120 x 405 mm
  • Weight (net): 17 kg
CANOR AI 2.10 is a hybrid integrated amplifier with an output power of 2 x 150 W / 4 Ω.
a hybrid integrated amplifier with an output power of 2 x 150 W / 4 Ω the preamplifier part of AI 2.10 consists of a pair of precisely selected tubes 6922 a tube preamplifier on the input fitted with a precise relay attenuator a power amplifier in class D, powered by a filtered and tuned linear power supply PCB’s utilize our premium CMT ™ technology XLR inputs with a strictly symmetrical signal up to the power amplifier
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:

  • Canor prioritizes in-house manufacturing of key components, including circuit boards using their proprietary CMT milling technology, and output transformers, allowing for greater control over quality and performance.
  • The brand offers a unique design aesthetic blending modern elements with retro-inspired touches like orange dot-matrix displays, contributing to a distinct and recognizable product identity.
  • Canor emphasizes the meticulous selection and testing of vacuum tubes, with matched pairs and carefully chosen brands, aiming for long-life and stable operation in their tube-based designs.
  • The units often incorporate tubes in the output stage of their digital components, aiming to add analog warmth to digital playback.

Virtus M1:  

  • Positioning: A reference vacuum tube power amplifier operating in pure class-A.  
  • Description: Features instant feedback switching and high-quality components like silver-coated oxygen-free copper for low distortion. Compared to the integrated amplifiers (AI 2.10, AI 1.20, and Virtus I2) that offer more connectivity options and the high-powered Virtus S1S that provides extreme output for bigger rooms, this unit is best for setups that favor a classic tube sound in a dedicated, moderate-budget environment.

AI 2.10:  

  • Positioning: An integrated hybrid amplifier from the performance line that combines a tube preamplifier with a class-D power stage.  
  • Description: Offers efficient power delivery through a filtered, tuned linear power supply along with a relay-controlled tube preamp for low noise performance. Compared to the premium solid-state design of AI 1.20 and the all-tube configuration of Virtus I2, it suits users needing versatility and modern functionality without a high premium price.

AI 1.20:  

  • Positioning: A premium integrated solid-state amplifier operating in pure class-A with advanced filtering and monoblock capability.  
  • Description: Uses exceptionally high filtering capacitance and a dual-block relay attenuator to achieve stable, interference-free performance. Compared with the hybrid approach of AI 2.10 and the tube-centric qualities of Virtus I2, it is aimed at buyers who demand refined build quality and stable, high-fidelity sound in controlled setups.

Virtus I2:  

  • Positioning: A premium integrated tube amplifier that delivers pure class-A operation with flexible mode switching.  
  • Description: Features auto-bias operation, instant switching between triode and ultra-linear modes, and advanced PCB milling (CMT) to minimize dielectric losses. Compared to the AI series—which target either performance or premium solid-state sound—and the more conventional tube design of Virtus M1, it caters to audiophiles seeking classic tube warmth, detailed sonic refinement, and the flexibility needed for varied listening environments.

Virtus S1S:  

  • Positioning: A high-end solid-state dual-mono power amplifier primarily operating in class AB with a few watts starting in pure class-A.  
  • Description: Features innovative heat dissipation using copper plates, error correction circuits, and ultra-low distortion to deliver robust, clear power with exceptional channel separation. Compared with the tube-based Virtus M1 and the integrated amplifiers (AI 2.10, AI 1.20, and Virtus I2), it is designed for large-room applications demanding maximum output and top-tier engineering.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
1
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Brand Popularity
265
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
13
Founding Year
1995

Our take on the brand

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.

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?

We consider ourselves specialists in tube technology. This year marks our 30th anniversary at Canor. Over the past three decades, we have amassed a wealth of experience in tubes and the design of tube-based audio products.

In addition to our core offerings, we design and manufacture audio products for other brands as an Original Design Manufacturer (ODM). We also designed the tube testers, which are essential for precise measuring and testing of tubes. These testers allow us to carefully select and match tubes for our products. Additionally, each tube that passed the measuring and testing process was assigned a unique number. This allows us to track the tubes used in our amplifier and provide the exact replacement for the customer when needed.

Furthermore, we have developed tube “burning” (or ageing) stands that are used to age the tubes we source from producers. This process ensures that the tubes' parameters stabilise before we proceed with precise measuring, testing, and pairing.

As a second technological innovation we are proud of is so-called CMT technology which we used in our tube-based products. This technology allows us to approach the dielectric loss factor (loss tangent) of printed circuit boards to the air loss factor. With this technology, we have achieved such excellent parameters as can be achieved with "wire connections" only by using very expensive and high-quality wires with Teflon insulation. However, our new technology has the advantage of repeatability in production with a 100% identical geometric arrangement (which is not possible with "wire-to-wire" connections). In addition, the advantage over "wire to wire" is that the connections are several times shorter than it is possible to achieve with a "wire to wire" connection.

What's your approach to customer support?

We appreciate every customer of Canor, whether they purchased an old amplifier 25 years ago or the latest model. Our strong relationships with partners, distributors, and dealers ensure that customers can reach out to them with any post-sale inquiries.

In addition, we are here to assist customers directly from all over the world. Anyone can contact us with questions about Canor products or any technical issues. We can provide remote support or collaborate with local service centres by offering technical advice or schematics needed to fix any problems that may arise.

We understand that deciding to buy a new audio product is a significant process. We are also available to assist potential customers by answering any questions they may have, including helping them match our products with other audio devices or loudspeakers.

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

That's a tough question, but if we must choose just three tracks, I would mention the following:

  • Dominique Fils-Aimé – Rise
  • Paul Cauthen - Cocaine Country Dancing
  • Two Feet - Had Some Drinks
  • And bonus: Rage Against The Machine - Fistful Of Steel

What other products pair best with yours?

We really like Fink Team loudspeakers (Borg, Kim) and Epos speakers. When it comes to more commercial (or well-known) brands, Focal is the one we enjoy playing with as well. Our amplifiers are designed to be compatible with most loudspeakers, and we believe our customers have had very good experiences with other brands.

From our interview with
Ivan Bosnovic
.
Brand Page

Used

CANOR

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What if you spend more?

Product image
CANOR
Canor AI 1.10
6999
6999
/
6
Reviews

an integrated tube amplifier in class A with an output power of 2 x 40 W KT88 high-power tubes with autobias with a cathode feedback an option to immediately switch between triode and ultra-linear mode PCB’s utilize our premium CMT ™ technology perfect separation of channels by using a relay attenuator / standalone blocks for each channel/gain control by 1 dB and maximum attenuation of 63 dB the independently powered control part filter capacitors with high capacitance deliver energy to accurate and tight basses only use high-quality polypropylene capacitors have been used in the signal path absolute selection and tubes matching with above-average parameters an option of synchronous control enables the use of two amplifiers in a monoblock mode without the need of using an extra preamplifier and that is a Master/Slave mode with an output power of 80 W per channel

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Impressive build quality, with robust and chunky chassis, thick top plate and high-quality connectors
  • Both Ultralinear and Triode modes are offered, providing flexibility in sound and power output—40W and 20W respectively
  • It can be used in a monoblock configuration without needing an additional preamplifier
  • Phenomenal sound quality, with excellent bass handling, fantastic midrange, and fast, detailed yet silky smooth treble
  • Transparency allows users to hear differences when making system changes

Product Considerations

  • The remote control's material might feel a little sticky
  • It lacks a home theater bypass analog input
  • The AI 1.10 requires at least 20 cm of space at the top and back for proper ventilation
  • All tubes undergo a critical selection process to ensure long-life and stable operation, so when they need replacing, customers may need to contact Canor directly to maintain optimal sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Canor sounded better than the Dynaco ST-70, but it was clear that it was struggling at the frequency extremes
  • The AI 1.10 sounds even more tubey and bold by all means—in Triode Class-A mode—at the expense of the extra illumination and even more ambient retrieval at mid & higher freq. spectrum
  • The Canor sounded just a bit smoother and slightly more open and transparent in higher extremes than the Jadis Orchestra Reference

Takeaway: The Canor AI 1.10 is a versatile tube amplifier with impressive sound and build quality. With features like auto-bias and switchable modes, it could be a great choice for audiophiles seeking a flexible and enjoyable listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
CANOR
Canor AI 1.20
8375
8375
/
2
Reviews

an integrated solid-state amplifier in pure class-A up to 50 W per channel a relay attenuator with two standalone blocks for each channel PCB’s utilize our premium CMT™ technology (CANOR® PCB Milling Technology), it is the way we mill printed circuit boards CMT™ technology originated in a long-standing endeavour to improve the sonic performance of our products power supply units with filtered out interfering signals from the mains supply interference-rejection and as small as possible leakage field ensure custom-wound toroidal transformers 264 000 uF of filtering capacitance simulates a nearly stabilized supply voltage an option of synchronous control enables the use of two amplifiers in a monoblock mode without the need of using an extra preamplifier and that is a Master/Slave mode with an output power of 100W per channel

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build and manufacturing quality
  • Sounds a little bit tubey for a solid-state amplifier, providing a gloss/warmth to the music
  • Has the classic Class A characteristic of high perceived detail resolution alongside a relaxed presentation
  • Delivers leading edges without the hardness typical of Class AB amps, and delivers them at high speed
  • Can be used as single channel monoblock with a second AI 1.20, doubling the specified output

Product Considerations

  • Only accepts single-ended RCA phono connections (until used in monoblock mode)
  • Runs hot due to Class A operation and requires ventilation
  • Some may want XLR inputs or digital inputs, which the AI 1.20 lacks
  • The included remote is described as lightweight

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Chord Electronics Etude: The Etude has a noticeably lower noise floor, more substantial/impactful bass, and more resolution, but the AI 1.20 has a smoother—more musical flow
  • Vs Gryphon Diablo 300: The Diablo 300 has more raw power and authority in bass delivery, but the AI 1.20 pairing has better bass quality (tautness, incisiveness, and control)
  • Vs Nagra Classic integrated amplifier: For less money, the dual AI 1.20s offer a lot more amplifier

Takeaway: The Canor AI 1.20 is a well-built amplifier that offers a smooth, musical sound with high detail resolution. It is especially impressive when used as a monoblock pair, delivering serious performance for audiophiles.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
CANOR
Canor Virtus I2
10535
10535
/
2
Reviews

an integrated tube amplifier operating in class A, providing an output power of 2 x 40 W KT88 high-power tubes with autobias with a cathode feedback an option to switch between triode and ultra-linear mode instantly PCB’s utilize our premium CMT ™ technology perfect channel separation using a relay attenuator that features individual blocks for each channel. The gain control is in increments of 1 dB and attenuates up to 63 dB the independently powered control part capacitors with high capacitance in the filter provide energy for precise and well-defined bass the signal path exclusively contains high-quality polypropylene capacitors precise selection and pairing of the tubes meeting above-average parameters the synchronous control option allows the use of two amplifiers in a monoblock mode without the need for an extra preamplifier. This Master/Slave mode has an output power of 80 W per channel

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent build quality with imposing casework and high-quality finish
  • Offers flexibility with switchable ultralinear and triode modes for different sound characteristics
  • Features auto-bias with cathode feedback for safe and easy tube operation
  • Precise gain control with a relay volume control and individual blocks for each channel, attenuating the signal in steps of one decibel
  • Transparent yet warm organic sound profile suitable for various music genres

Product Considerations

  • Generates significant heat during operation, requiring ample space for air circulation
  • High power consumption of 150 watts in idle
  • Switching between triode and UL modes can only be done on the amplifier itself, not via the remote

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Virtus I2 is a step up from the Canor AI 1.10
  • The Virtus I2 is more affordable than the Canor Virtus M1

Takeaway: The Canor Virtus I2 is a well-engineered tube amplifier with a focus on in-house manufacturing, offering a transparent and engaging sound. Its flexibility and ease of use make it a worthwhile consideration for audiophiles seeking a high-quality tube listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Canor Audio is a hifi brand that uses proprietary CMT circuit board technology to match the performance of point-to-point wiring while maintaining consistency in manufacturing. Their tube-based designs include unique features like a tube output stage in their DACs and custom-made output transformers with Permalloy cores in their amplifiers, setting them apart in the high-end audio market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.

Video review

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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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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PrimaLuna
EVO 300 (Integrated)
4695
/
Released
2021
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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