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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

  • High amounts of power
  • Gorgeous, velvet-smooth sound throughout the audioband, and particularly in the midrange, it was rich and sultry with most recordings, yet with all the resolution one could hope for
  • Revealed everything
  • Could image with tube-like dimensionality, laying out soundstages of depths so convincing they were sometimes uncanny
  • The quality of metalwork is among the best seen or laid hands on, the finely textured metal surfaces felt like suede

Product Considerations

  • The MTRX2 is big and heavy, each measuring 21.4"W x 11.7"H x 23"D and weighing 180 pounds
  • The MTRX2's big, blocky look was not appealing to the reviewer
  • Potential buyers should be careful when installing them due to their weight

Takeaway: The EMM Labs MTRX2 mono amplifiers provide a super desirable listening experience with high power and extremely high resolution and build quality. If you want to hear sound without colorations and with velvet-smooth delivery, these could be the right amps.

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

MTRX2 V2

reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

Introducing the MTRX2 V2: A Masterpiece of Precision and Passion. Unlock the pinnacle of audio excellence with EMM Labs' latest innovation, the re-imagined MTRX2 V2. These 1000W Class A/B solid-state mono amplifiers are meticulously crafted to deliver an unparalleled auditory experience, setting a new standard in high-end audio amplification technology.
Hot on the heels of Ed Meitner's ground breaking reference MTRX amplifier, comes the eagerly anticipated debut of its smaller sibling monoblocks, the MTRX2. The MTRX2s are 1KW Class A/B solid-state powerhouses built using MTRX technology. Capable of driving the most fiendish and complex speaker loads effortlessly, while sounding as sweet, musical and detailed as a classic single-ended triode tube amps. "It is truly a gentle giant," as Ed would say.

The MTRX2 monoblocks achieve their superlative performance and transparency using 21st century technology, along with proprietary Meitner circuit topologies and zero overall negative feedback developed in Ed's reference MTRX monoblocks. These monoblocks have been meticulously designed, from its short and fully balanced audio paths throughout, to its proprietary power systems and beautifully finished chassis and custom plated panels.

MTRX2 systems are fully discrete, offering ultra low distortion, very high bandwidth and the ability to deliver massive transient currents instantaneously. It also employs our custom made ceramic PCB boards plus a host of proprietary systems for speaker protection and self-protection.

Conservatively rated at 1000W into 4Ω. The MTRX2 is also completely stable driving difficult, complex loads, and has the uncanny ability to drive low impedance speakers down to an Ohm! All while keeping distortion at mini...
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:

  • EMM Labs products are designed to reproduce sound with complete transparency, avoiding any coloration and letting the signal pass through unaltered.
  • The brand's designs leverage technology from their monoblock amplifiers, such as real-time monitoring, automatic protection, and a zero-feedback topology, extended to other product categories.
  • The company employs custom-designed ceramic circuit boards with superior thermal and dielectric properties as a crucial component in their designs, treating the board as an interconnect.

EMM Labs PRE

  • Positioning: A high-end stereo preamplifier designed for audiophiles seeking precision and control.
  • Description: Offers transparency with fully discrete dual-balanced signal paths and precision software-driven analog volume control. Provides superior strength and vibration resistance due to its aerospace-grade circuit boards. Its multiple stereo analog inputs and outputs allow for flexible system configurations, catering to those who need versatile connectivity options.

EMM Labs DA2i

  • Positioning: A flagship digital-to-analog converter for high-resolution audio enthusiasts.
  • Description: Features proprietary Dual Differential DACs and Class A analog output stage, delivering exceptional sonic clarity. Integrates advanced network streaming capabilities, supporting high-resolution formats and streaming platforms, which is perfect for users who want seamless access to digital music. Uses state-of-the-art DSP and provides jitter-free performance.

EMM Labs MTRS

  • Positioning: A premium stereo amplifier for those demanding the best in audio reproduction.
  • Description: Features a 400W Class A/B solid-state design and proprietary power system, ensuring high power and low distortion. Can drive low impedance speakers with ease, setting it apart from other amplifiers in the lineup.
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Avg. Product Price
$100,001+
Used For Sale
12
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
272
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
4
Founding Year
1998

Our take on the brand

EMM Labs is renowned for its proprietary MDAC and MCLK technologies, which set benchmarks in precision digital-to-analog conversion and clocking. Founded by Ed Meitner, a celebrated audio engineer, the brand has a long-standing reputation for producing reference-level audio equipment trusted by recording studios.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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What if you spend more?

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What competes at this price?

Dan D'Agostino
Relentless 800
195500
/
Released
2023
After setting the measure for amplifier excellence, the new Relentless 800 Mono Amplifier extends the Relentless sound quality to a smaller platform. Every major section of the Relentless circuitry - power supply, input, driver, and output stages - have all been enhanced and these all feature in the new Relentless 800. The Relentless 800 incorporates the same circuit platform as its bigger brother with a lower power output. Mind you, the Relentless 800 is virtually unlimited when it comes to power delivery and is only outdone by the Relentless 1600 itself. Nuanced and musical at low volume levels, the Relentless 800 delivers the striking dynamic contrasts – that brings music to life.
Check Amazon
Dan D'Agostino is an ultra-premium hifi brand distinguished by its unique copper heat sinks with holes and distinctive circular green-lit VU meters that give their amplifiers a steampunk aesthetic. Their amplifiers feature proprietary "Super Rail" technology that maintains high voltage for front-end transistors, while their three-chassis Relentless Preamplifier uses 30-pin interlocking connectors to eliminate wiring anomalies.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional sound quality right away that continues to improve
  • Capable of uncompressed dynamics at both loud and soft volumes, micro and macro, and doesn't harden or distort when playing loud
  • Can handle big scale, orchestral, beautiful music to really raw, crazy metal music, all played convincingly at loud and soft levels
  • New details are revealed without being hyper-analytical, sterile, or harsh
  • Built like military materiel

Product Considerations

  • Each monoblock weighs 145kg, so owners will welcome assistance when receiving it
  • Inputs are on balanced XLR only, while the solid copper speaker terminals are designed for spade lugs, not 4mm bananas
  • The Breguet watch dial-inspired meter's 'time-keeping' is less accurate

Takeaway: The D'Agostino Relentless 800 reproduces a wide range of music genres with detail and dynamics, offering an immersive and enjoyable listening experience. It brings out the best in music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dan D'Agostino is an ultra-premium hifi brand distinguished by its unique copper heat sinks with holes and distinctive circular green-lit VU meters that give their amplifiers a steampunk aesthetic. Their amplifiers feature proprietary "Super Rail" technology that maintains high voltage for front-end transistors, while their three-chassis Relentless Preamplifier uses 30-pin interlocking connectors to eliminate wiring anomalies.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Engstrom
Eric Encore
174965
/
Released
2021
Named after a great Swedish choir conductor, ERIC is our no-compromise statement power amplifier. Fully balanced and transformer-coupled, it was created to drive even the toughest loads. ERIC uses separate power supplies for input and output stages and DC filaments.
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Engström is a Swedish hifi brand that handcrafts amplifiers with a minimalist Nordic design, featuring fully balanced, transformer-coupled circuits and no negative feedback to preserve natural sound dynamics. Their amplifiers, which use KR Audio's T-100 power tubes, are known for creating an expansive, three-dimensional soundstage with what audiophiles call a "Scandinavian Sound"—characterized by open, detailed, and natural sonic qualities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Crisp, tight rhythms are allied to a sonorous, close-focused view of vocals
  • Capable of bags of detail and definition, while bathed in a lovely warmth
  • Massive bass weight is available, with fabulous rosiny bite to the low strings, silky violins, and the feeling of space and air around the performers
  • Big, substantial sound makes the most of remasters, bringing out all the character of vocals
  • Focus and warmth contributes to a solid, three-dimensional soundstage, and remains clean and tight when cranked

Product Considerations

  • The precious bottles should never be left unattended or used without the purpose-designed glass hood installed
  • The amps' thermal characteristics may be a problem in a globally-warmed English summer
  • Each amp draws 430W from the wall

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dan D'Agostino Relentless Monoblocks—the ERIC Encores are more expensive per watt

Takeaway: The Engström ERIC Encore Mono Power Amplifiers offer a captivating and enthralling presentation that challenges old clichés about valve amps. One should hear them if given the chance, for they sound glorious.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Engström is a Swedish hifi brand that handcrafts amplifiers with a minimalist Nordic design, featuring fully balanced, transformer-coupled circuits and no negative feedback to preserve natural sound dynamics. Their amplifiers, which use KR Audio's T-100 power tubes, are known for creating an expansive, three-dimensional soundstage with what audiophiles call a "Scandinavian Sound"—characterized by open, detailed, and natural sonic qualities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Krell
KMA i800
139995
/
Released
2023
The Krell KMA i800 represents the pinnacle of monoblock amplifier design, delivering extraordinary power and precision for the most demanding audio enthusiasts. As a flagship model in Krell's lineup, the KMA i800 is engineered to drive even the most challenging speaker loads with effortless authority, revealing every detail of your music with stunning clarity and depth. Whether you're listening to a delicate piano solo or a full orchestral crescendo, the KMA i800 delivers a sonic experience that is both powerful and profoundly immersive.
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Krell is a hifi brand whose amplifiers use iBias technology to operate in Class A up to full power without excessive heat, while maintaining the ability to double power output as speaker impedance halves. Their amplifiers feature XD technology for better control over speaker drivers, and modern models like the K-300i include Bluetooth, HDMI, and streaming features for contemporary audio setups.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers 800W of class-A power regardless of the speaker load
  • Features XD technology that lowers output impedance, resulting in more control over the speaker drivers and improved soundstage depth
  • Employs Sym-Max technology to significantly reduce second-order harmonic distortion, bringing out more detail and improving the sense of timing and pacing
  • Has a power supply consisting of 5400VA of transformers and 188,000µF of filter capacitance for substantial power delivery
  • Offers protection against excess direct current, short circuits, and voltage sags—brown outs

Product Considerations

  • It may be too much power for some users
  • High idle heat dissipation at 890 btu/hr per channel

Takeaway: The Krell KMA-i800 is a powerful amplifier with technologies that aim to provide a clean and controlled sound. Its high power output helps to improve sound quality even at average listening levels.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Krell is a hifi brand whose amplifiers use iBias technology to operate in Class A up to full power without excessive heat, while maintaining the ability to double power output as speaker impedance halves. Their amplifiers feature XD technology for better control over speaker drivers, and modern models like the K-300i include Bluetooth, HDMI, and streaming features for contemporary audio setups.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Meitner
MTRX2 V2 Mono
115000
/
Released
Introducing the MTRX2 V2: A Masterpiece of Precision and Passion. Unlock the pinnacle of audio excellence with EMM Labs' latest innovation, the re-imagined MTRX2 V2. These 1000W Class A/B solid-state mono amplifiers are meticulously crafted to deliver an unparalleled auditory experience, setting a new standard in high-end audio amplification technology.
Check Amazon
Meitner Audio's MA3 DAC uses a unique one-bit circuit that upconverts all audio to 16xDSD, with proprietary MFAST and MDAT2 technologies for jitter removal and upsampling. The MA3 features a VControl digital volume system that maintains signal integrity without requantization, while offering network streaming and Roon Ready capability.
Expand Details

Our Summary

No items found.

Product Strengths

  • High amounts of power, supreme bass weight, and woofer control
  • Velvet-smooth sound throughout the audioband, particularly in the midrange, with high resolution
  • Images with tube-like dimensionality, creating soundstages of convincing depth
  • Sound reproduces without colorations
  • Functions flawlessly, with no operational glitches, and is bulletproof in terms of safety and reliability with a comprehensive monitoring system

Product Considerations

  • The MTRX2s are big and heavy, making them difficult to move and install
  • The MTRX2's big, blocky look was not well-received
  • High power output might be overkill for rooms of typical size
  • The balanced (XLR) and single-ended (RCA) inputs seem of good quality, if nothing extraordinary

Takeaway: The MTRX2 offers exceptional sound quality, high power, and reliability. If you desire a top-tier listening experience with no coloration and are seeking an end-game amplifier, the MTRX2 could be the perfect choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Meitner Audio's MA3 DAC uses a unique one-bit circuit that upconverts all audio to 16xDSD, with proprietary MFAST and MDAT2 technologies for jitter removal and upsampling. The MA3 features a VControl digital volume system that maintains signal integrity without requantization, while offering network streaming and Roon Ready capability.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Goldmund
Telos 4800
260000
/
Released
2024
Telos 4800 is a revolutionary addition to Goldmund's illustrious collection encapsulates the technical brilliance of the Telos 8800 within a more compact form, setting a new pinnacle in high-fidelity audio for discerning audiophiles who seek supreme sound quality and precision. Meticulously crafted with Goldmund's legendary attention to detail and harnessing the latest advancements in audio technology, the Telos 4800 redefines audio performance standards.
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Goldmund is a Swiss hifi brand known for its "mechanical grounding" technology, which reduces vibrations through heavy, precisely engineered components, and its proprietary Telos amplifier technology that significantly reduces intermodulation distortion. The brand appeals to audiophiles who prioritize pure sound reproduction, focusing on musical realism through minimalist design and high bandwidth circuitss.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Designed to drive even very low-impedance loudspeakers without compromising distortion levels
  • Delivers unmatched sound clarity and power with a maximum power output of 1050 watts RMS at 8 ohms and a total harmonic distortion (THD) of only 0.005% across 20 Hz to 20 kHz
  • Features a damping factor of 600 at 1 kHz and output floor noise of less than 3 μV, delivering an impeccably clean and detailed sound free from unwanted background noise
  • Ensures maximum thermal security and short-circuit protection with fully analog circuitry from input to output and an automatic shutdown feature
  • Equipped with analog and digital inputs, including RCA and XLR connectors

Product Considerations

  • A preamp is required to supply input switching and any processing needed before sending signals to the Telos 4800 to power the speakers
  • As a mono power amp, two units are required for a stereo setup, increasing the overall cost significantly

Takeaway: The Telos 4800 is designed to meet the needs of any audio system and delivers unmatched sound clarity and power. With impeccable specs, it offers a high-end performance for audiophiles.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Goldmund is a Swiss hifi brand known for its "mechanical grounding" technology, which reduces vibrations through heavy, precisely engineered components, and its proprietary Telos amplifier technology that significantly reduces intermodulation distortion. The brand appeals to audiophiles who prioritize pure sound reproduction, focusing on musical realism through minimalist design and high bandwidth circuitss.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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