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

  • 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.

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

AMP-23R

reviews

[{"title":"The Enleum AMP 23-R Left me Breathless. HiFi REVIEW.","link":"http://www.stevehuffphoto.com/2022/05/26/the-enleum-amp23r-left-me-breathless-review","source":"Steve Huff Reviews","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"FULL REVIEW: Enleum AMP-23R Amplifier","link":"https://www.tonepublications.com/review/full-review-enleum-23r-amplifier","source":"TONEAudio MAGAZINE","datePublished":""},{"title":"Review: Enleum AMP-23R Integrated Amplifier","link":"https://twitteringmachines.com/review-enleum-amp-23r-integrated-amplifier","source":"Twittering Machines","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Enleum Amp-23R stereo amplifier by David Abramson","link":"https://www.stereotimes.com/post/enleum-amp23r-stereo-amplifier-by-david-abramson","source":"Stereo Times","datePublished":""},{"title":"AMP-23R 3rd opinion","link":"https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/enleum-amp-23r-3rd-opinion","source":"6 Moons","datePublished":""},{"title":"Enleum AMP-23R","link":"http://hifiknights.com/reviews/amplifiers/enleum-amp-23r","source":"HiFi Knights","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"For Ears and Years – Enleum AMP-23R Review","link":"https://soundnews.net/amplifiers/power-amps/for-ears-and-years-enleum-amp-23r-review","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Enleum AMP-23R Integrated | REVIEW","link":"https://pt.audio/2022/09/11/enleum-amp-23r-integrated-review","source":"pt.audio","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Enleum AMP-23R integrated amplifier","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/enleum-amp-23r-integrated-amplifier","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Enleum AMP-23R","link":"https://the-ear.net/review-hardware/enleum-amp-23r-integrated-amplifier","source":"The Ear","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"The Enleum AMP-23R Headphone & Speaker Amplifier – The Best of Both Worlds!","link":"https://headphone.guru/the-enleum-amp-23r-headphone-speaker-amplifier-the-best-of-both-worlds","source":"Headphone Guru","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"ENLEUM AMP-23R - REVIEW","link":"https://www.audiokeyreviews.com/the-reviews/enleum-amp23r-ld6w6","source":"AUDIOKEY REVIEWS","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Enleum Amp-23R amplifier is evaluated!","link":"https://www.thesoundadvocate.com/2023/01/enleum-amp-23r-amplifier-is-evaluated","source":"The Sound Advocate","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Easily the BEST amp I've heard! Enleum AMP-23R review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4xbdlwxKes","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Enleum AMP 23R Review - Why is this so different to other amps?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYc14ptHPpo","source":"GoldenSound","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Enleum 23R REVIEW. An unusual amplifier for unusual tastes.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYdKIGTe5NE","source":"ConvinceMeAudio","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"For Ears and Years - Enleum AMP-23R Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lD0vg_CdNM","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Enleum AMP-23r Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e489E6QgJxA","source":"Director's Garage","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"This small SIMPLE Reference Integrated AMP BLEW ME AWAY. I bought one.","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sLhZWw3ero","source":"HiFi Huff","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Maximum Power: 25 watts (8 Ω, 1 kHz) | 45 watts (4 Ω, 1 kHz) | 4 watts (60 Ω, 1 kHz)
  • Gain: 22.5 dB max (Speaker, Headphone High) | 7 dB max (Headphone Low)
  • Gain Control: MPU Controlled Stepped Attenuator
  • Frequency Response: 10 Hz ~ 100 kHz
  • Input Impedance: 10 kΩ (Voltage) | 10 Ω (ENLINK)
  • Input: 2 Voltage (RCA) | 1 ENLINK (BNC)
  • Output: 5 Way Speaker Binding Post | 1/4″ Headphone Out
  • Power Consumption: 30 watts (Idle) | 100 watts (Max)
  • Dimensions: 230 mm (W) x 230 mm (D) x 55 mm or 82.5 mm incl. Isolation (H)
  • Weight: 4.0 kg (net) | 4.5 kg (shipping)
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.
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.
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:

  • Enleum designs amplifiers leveraging its proprietary "Ensence" circuit, emphasizing zero negative feedback and discrete transistors for an ultra-fast, wide bandwidth signal path, resulting in exceptional transient response and clarity.
  • The brand employs a unique volume control method, adjusting gain at the input stage rather than traditional attenuation, which is said to preserve signal purity and performance at all volume levels.
  • Enleum products often feature a distinctive aesthetic marked by minimalist design, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship, earning them awards and recognition in industrial design.
  • Soo In Chae, the designer behind Enleum, emphasizes achieving exceptional sonic performance even at lower power outputs, optimizing circuit design to maximize musicality and driver control with efficient speakers and headphones.

AMP-23R 

  • Positioning: The AMP-23R is positioned as a reference compact amplifier in Enleum's lineup.
  • Description: The AMP-23R is praised for its compact design and advanced Ensence Circuit, which offers ultra-fast and wide frequency response. Compared to the AMP-54R, it features the JET2 Bias for efficient performance.

HPA-23RM

  • Positioning: The HPA-23RM is Enleum's reference headphone amplifier, designed for both desktop and mobile use.
  • Description: The HPA-23RM stands out with its dual voltage and current outputs, offering flexibility for various headphones. It shares the JET2 Bias technology with the AMP-23R but is more portable, making it suitable for users who need a high-end headphone amplifier on the go, without the larger footprint of the AMP-54R.

AMP-54R

  • Positioning: The AMP-54R is Enleum's flagship amplifier, representing the pinnacle of their engineering and design.
  • Description: The AMP-54R is distinguished by its JET3 Bias system, which enhances performance and efficiency, and its optional modules for phono preamplifier and streaming DAC. It offers a more powerful and versatile solution compared to the AMP-23R and HPA-23RM, making it ideal for users with larger budgets and those seeking an all-in-one high-end audio system for larger spaces.
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Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
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1
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Brand Popularity
234
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Products Listed
5
Founding Year
2009

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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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

What's your approach to customer support?

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

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What if you spend more?

Product image
ampsandsound
Nautilus
11000
11000
/
7
Reviews

With the inclusion the new tube cage, the transformer cover was raised 2" to allow the cage to fully protect any KT-120/KT-150 tube. The resulting metal work and power supply changes have yielded our quietest Nautilus yet. Many still love the sleek lower profile look of the Classic Nautilus and as such we allow you to order your Nautiluswith the original metal work style or the Rev 2. The Classic Nautilus will additionally save you $1000 on the purchase.

The Story of the Nautilus is born of the same process that brought the Zions. We set out to build my private amps apart from ampsandsound. These were to be mine without branding and never to leave for demos. All too often, my own listening space was sacrificed for the need for demo stock. I chose the HK Cit II as my inspiration point. From that seed came my own Cit II Monos build on turrets just like the best amps of the golden age.

The Nautilus brings the dual-mono layout onto a single chassis. We started with our most versatile circuit, the Mogwai, and went about creating two separate amps that share a single chassis. 2 Power Transformers, Separate Power Supplies, Chokes, and input transformers. The amps are built with separate turret boards, with the shared component being the input tube, volume control, and outputs.

The Nautilus is a classic and decidedly prosaic design, as it employs turrets and point-to-point wiring & there is no silicone, ICs, or regulators. We consider this a standard-bearer of purest audio with an American sensibility. The Nautilus is built in a way few modern amplifiers are. This is not due to intrinsic inferiority, but rather it is impossible to rush and is incredibly expensive to produce.

The Nautilus has been described as a tube integrated amp for personal audio users. We mean by this, the Nautilus allows for five separate impedances to be selected for system matching and has a pair of 8ohm 5 way binding posts. The speaker vs. headphone output is selected with a small toggle switch on the back of the amp.

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Five individualized outputs with different impedances
  • Custom wound ultra-high quality output transformers provide excellent frequency extension and a flat response
  • Engaging audio components offer superior sound quality using proven theories, solid engineering, and quality manufacturing, all taking place in the USA
  • Brings out the very best qualities in all of the headphones tested, providing the best presentation ever heard from the Aeolus
  • Build quality is a step-up from other amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • The most expensive quarter inch plugs you can get, have locks on them, which can be annoying
  • Unplug headphones before switching to speaker outputs
  • Weighs around 68 pounds and around 93 pounds shipped in its large pelican style case—it is heavy
  • Can clip when used with speakers if pushed too hard

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Nautilus sounds better than the ZMF Pendant Headphone Tube Amplifier and the Mogwai OG Tube Amplifier in every regard
  • Nautilus is even more comprehensive and expressive through the powerful, well-controlled, tonal density that is detailed and rich in nuance—it has more extension and top-notch resolution

Takeaway: The Nautilus seems to be a versatile amplifier that brings out the best in headphones and speakers. It's built with quality parts and offers a lush and detailed sound experience for audiophiles who want to enjoy music to the fullest.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
Western Electric
91E
14999
14999
/
5
Reviews

Double the Performance Trouble-free, noise-free, and double the power of traditional 300B amps. Made possible by patented circuit design. A New Classic We’re proud to continue a legacy of quality, American manufacturing with innovative new features. Ships with Tubes The 91E ships with new production 300Bs, the most popular electron tubes in the world. Made in the USA.

Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • New patented design SCS (source current steering) allows the amplifier to have a fabulous bottom end without affecting the glorious midrange
  • Proprietary noise reduction system eliminates noise that can be inherent in a single-ended design
  • Circuit protects the 300Bs and keeps them in their safe operating range, so there is no chance of damaging the tube or having a shortened life
  • More power from this amp than a traditional 300B, it's the difference in presentation
  • It has Bluetooth, phono stage (moving coil and moving magnet), and wireless remote control

Product Considerations

  • Instructions could be a little clearer about installing the 300Bs
  • More warm-up is needed for each listening session than originally allowed
  • The 91E was designed for operation with Western Electric manufactured 300B electron tubes
  • The brands and specifications of the capacitors, resistors, transformers, internal wires, RCA jacks, switches, and binding posts are not disclosed

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs WE 91A: 91E retains what's best about the early WE 91A—its delicacy, bloom, openness, and tonal magic—and adds modern improvements

Takeaway: The Western Electric 91E is a uniquely designed amplifier providing great sound with modern features like Bluetooth and remote control, pushing what a 300B tube amplifier can achieve. It's a great option for audiophiles wanting to step up from other tube amplifier sounds.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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Jadis
I300
16900
16900
/
3
Reviews

In the world of audiophiles, there is purist group militating for simplicity in tube amplification systems focusing on the use of the tube designed in the early days of tube technology: the directly heated triodes of which the most famous is the 300B. I300 is built around a simple 300B push-pull without feedback which offers unequalled musiciality of this tube.

After the preamplification using an ECC82, the signal feeds a phase inverter (called Schmitt) followed by 6SN7 triodes sufficient to drive the 300B.

The power supply is another strong point. In addition to the fact that each stage has its own power supply, particular care has been taken with the 300Bs themselves.

As direct heated triodes, the heater is the cathode. This requires a very "clean" power supply with no less than seven separate power circuits.

As for all our devices, transformers are designed and manufactured in our workshop. The one dedicated to the power supply, uses a magnetic circuit EI M6X of a design which gives a very stable operation, without noise and with a reduced overheating.

The output ones use a double CV38 magnetic circuit built according to our standards. The I300 is the only integrated with such an output transformer.

A design mode that allows the device to appear much more powerful than its 10W may suggest!

As far as design is concerned, the I300 remains faithful to our range and has a compact design. The 2mm thick 304L chassis easily supports the weight of the other elements. For a better comfort of use it is equipped with a remote control.

Listening to the I300, it's all about accuracy, subtlety and musicality of the 300B which magnify your tracks. No doubt it will delight demanding audiophiles triode lover!

Jadis Electronics is renowned for their meticulous handcrafting of tube amplifiers, with a unique process of hand-winding output transformers that's integral to their signature sound. Their tube amplifiers deliver unusually high power outputs without distortion even at maximum levels, setting them apart in the tube amplifier market.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Wonderful mid-band presentation that comes from the 300B tubes
  • Bass is extended and controlled
  • Provides detail and insight into recordings without being piercing
  • Soundstaging is wide, deep, and natural sounding
  • Every stage in the amplifier has its own power supply, and particular care has been taken with the 300Bs themselves

Product Considerations

  • The included remote is functional, but not in keeping with the quality of the amplifier itself
  • It is very heavy, weighing 40kg
  • The high polished chrome and gold accents may divide opinion
  • Those looking for an amplifier that is absolutely neutral in its presentation may want to listen to something else

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Merrill Thor amps, the Jadis I300, to the reviewer's ears, is a far superior amp for listening and putting a big grin on your face

Takeaway: The Jadis i300 is built superbly and delivers a balanced sound with detail and emotional connection, making it a joy to listen to. It is a refined performer across the audio spectrum and with all kinds of music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Jadis Electronics is renowned for their meticulous handcrafting of tube amplifiers, with a unique process of hand-winding output transformers that's integral to their signature sound. Their tube amplifiers deliver unusually high power outputs without distortion even at maximum levels, setting them apart in the tube amplifier market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Riviera
AIC10-Bal
19800
19800
/
3
Reviews
Riviera Labs designs amplifiers that match the human ear's natural distortion patterns, focusing on subjective listening experiences rather than technical specifications. Their products use a hybrid design combining tubes for signal processing and solid-state components for power stages, with the unique ability to switch between pure Class A and Class AB operation in their LEVANTE integrated amplifier.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Restores faith in humanity during an age dominated by digital devices
  • Outstanding product crafted with high-quality metalwork, including a thick engraved panel, heat sinks that match the rounded edges, and internal components that are hand-soldered onto double-sided, 2 mm thick circuit boards
  • Hybrid amplifier using a dual triode in the preamp stage and Mosfets in the output stage, offering the possibility to customize the sound by experimenting with different valves
  • Offers unparalleled control over bass and extension, the mids are incredibly authentic, while the highs are enchanting in their golden glow, also boasts impressive attack, dynamics, and rhythm, along with remarkable speed
  • Exceptional analogue amplifier primarily designed for high-quality sound through headphones—that also excels as a speaker stereo amplifier

Product Considerations

  • Expensive
  • Speaker declared power output is just 10W/8 ohms, which is enough to power a pair of medium-sensitivity speakers (88dB) in a small room if you don't push it too hard

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Pass Labs XA30.8: Low bass was a bit bloomier, and that its virtual needle on the elasticity-to-damping metre sat slightly deeper in the elasticity zone

Takeaway: The Riviera Labs AIC-10 BAL is a high-quality, all-analog hybrid amplifier that works great with headphones and speakers and is designed for a very pleasurable listening experience, built with human hearing in mind. This is the right choice if one wants the best sound possible.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Riviera Labs designs amplifiers that match the human ear's natural distortion patterns, focusing on subjective listening experiences rather than technical specifications. Their products use a hybrid design combining tubes for signal processing and solid-state components for power stages, with the unique ability to switch between pure Class A and Class AB operation in their LEVANTE integrated amplifier.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Product Page

What competes at this price?

CANOR
Canor AI 1.20
8375
/
Released
CANOR AI 1.20 is an integrated solid-state amplifier in pure class-A up to 50 W per channel with a relay attenuator with two standalone blocks for each channel.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

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
ampsandsound
Bigger Ben
5728
/
Released
2021
The Bigger Ben started life as 2nd channel adaptation of the Mogwai. It employed huge transformers and was a Class A beast. With the development of the Mogwai SE, the Bigger Ben became redundant as the Mogwai SE is such an overachiever.
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ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very powerful amp with crazy headroom, capable of driving most headphones, including those that need a lot of power, and can grow with you as different headphones
  • Delivers clarity, separation, detail, and impact, making every pair of headphones sound better
  • Multiple impedance outputs allow dialing in the best sound for a given pair of headphones
  • Super black background—very low noise floor
  • A ton of different tubes can be rolled, including EL34s, KT66s, KT67s, KT88s, 6550s, and KT90s, making it very versatile and allowing customization of the sound to exact taste

Product Considerations

  • Only one input via a pair of RCA connectors
  • Requires a pre-amplifier or DAC with volume control if obtained without the volume pot
  • May lack convenience features because of ampsandsound's minimalist philosophy
  • Can be very heavy

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Linear Tube Audio's Z10e: Z10e seemed more focused and brightly lit through the midrange

Takeaway: The Bigger Ben is a hugely versatile and powerful amplifier that could be an end-game amp, especially if you want to experiment with tube rolling. Its sound is detailed, clear, and engaging, making it a great choice for anyone who loves listening to music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Copland
CTA407
7241
/
Released
2023
The amplifier is the interface between your signal sources and the speaker system, whatever is lost at this position is lost forever and conversely, whatever is introduced is also amplified.
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Copland is a hifi brand known for its hybrid amplifier designs that combine tube and solid-state technologies, with their signature approach being the pairing of valve preamps with MOSFET power amps as seen in their CSA100 model. Their amplifiers deliver a controlled sound that maintains the precision of transistor designs while adding warmth from tube integration, all housed in minimalist designs that focus on understated aesthetics.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The CTA407 balances accuracy and musicality, creating an amplifier that is greater than the sum of its parts.
  • Utterly silent at idle, with neither noise from the amp itself nor through the speakers.
  • It delivers the recording with surprising punch and attack within its power output limits.
  • The amplifier is well-built, with every control feeling precise in use, exuding functionality.
  • It offers a balanced, expressive, and composed performance.

Product Considerations

  • The CTA407 is a big amplifier and requires plenty of room in any system.
  • The buttons on the remote are prone to sticking.
  • It has no headphone output.
  • The moving magnet phono stage might not suit all users, as many prefer MM/MC onboard phono sections or separate phono stages.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Copland CTA405: The CTA407 traces back to the CTA405, specifically the CTA405 and not the CTA405a.
  • Vs Copland CTA408: The CTA407 replaces both the 405a and the CTA408.
  • Vs Yamaha A-S3200: The Copland amplifier doesn't have quite the same control over bass frequencies when playing loudly.
  • Vs Audio Research I/50: The Copland amp seems more dynamic and plays with more authority in the bass range.
  • Vs Rotel Michi X5: The Copland amplifier doesn't have the same endless power.

Takeaway: The Copland CTA407 delivers a sophisticated and controlled sound, with a rich and nuanced tonal character. It is a well-engineered tube amplifier that offers a balance of power and refinement for an engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Copland is a hifi brand known for its hybrid amplifier designs that combine tube and solid-state technologies, with their signature approach being the pairing of valve preamps with MOSFET power amps as seen in their CSA100 model. Their amplifiers deliver a controlled sound that maintains the precision of transistor designs while adding warmth from tube integration, all housed in minimalist designs that focus on understated aesthetics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Unison Research
Simply 845
9999
/
Released
2023
The New Simply 845 ranks at the top of Unison Research's line of integrated tube amplifiers, second only to the historic ABSOLUTE 845. The SIMPLY 845, like the ABSOLUTE 845, also employs the famous 845 direct-heated triodes, tubes well known for remarkable durability and extraordinary sonic qualities.
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Unison Research specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state technology, with their flagship Unico DM featuring a pure class A double tube stage paired with POWER MOSFET components. Their Black Edition series, including the S6 and Simply Italy models, integrates modern digital connectivity like USB and SPDIF while maintaining their signature tube-based design philosophy.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Wide and deep soundstage, with a depth extending as far as 70 feet in one test
  • Music reproduction is natural and realistic, creating a sense of instruments and voices being present in the room
  • High frequencies and cymbals shimmer and crash realistically
  • Impeccably constructed and manufactured with original circuit solutions
  • Capable of drama, delicacy, and danger which transcends reproduction — turning the act of listening into a full-fledged experience

Product Considerations

  • Selector knob on top of the unit is difficult to access when the tube cage is installed
  • Speakers need to be a good match for the amplifier's 23 watts of power
  • Bass was shy and ill-defined when used with the Dynaudio Contour 60i speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Conrad Johnson Premier 10 & 11A, the Simply 845 has a wider and deeper soundstage and better reproduction of high frequencies and cymbals
  • Compared to PrimaLuna (top-of-the-line), the Simply 845 sounds better sonically
  • Compared to Line Magnetic Audio LM-845iA Integrated Amp, the Simply 845 does delicate better

Takeaway: The Simply 845 is a revealing integrated amplifier that makes music sound magical and is an excellent choice, especially for horn speaker lovers. This amplifier transforms speakers into something wonderful and will enhance the music experience.

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Our take on the brand

Unison Research specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state technology, with their flagship Unico DM featuring a pure class A double tube stage paired with POWER MOSFET components. Their Black Edition series, including the S6 and Simply Italy models, integrates modern digital connectivity like USB and SPDIF while maintaining their signature tube-based design philosophy.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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CANOR
Canor AI 1.10
6999
/
Released
2022
CANOR AI 1.10 is an integrated tube amplifier with an entirely new topology equipped with KT88 high-power tubes. The aim of the development was to merge the best sound characteristics of previous models together. The amplifier operates in a pure class A with an auto-bias function, and with cathode feedback.
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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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Our Summary

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
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