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

  • Illustrious performance beyond the 25-watt Enleum AMP-23R, leapfrogging to 100 watts to sanctify more speakers
  • Extremist visual finesse and thin-is-in futurism, with design ambitions comparable to 'Apple chic'
  • True variable current gain, not a classic integrated amp
  • 32-bit software constantly monitors and auto-adapts the power transistor class AB bias for optimal performance without warm-up

Product Considerations

  • Associated costs for its hyper styling may not be worth it for everyone
  • Operation without visible switches, controls, or a typical display can be perplexing
  • Making practical concessions for an ultra-sleek look is a hurdle, viewing the LED display from afar is vague compared to a numerical readout

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus the Enleum AMP-23R, the AMP-54R scales up output power times four

Takeaway: The Enleum AMP-54R is a visually stunning amplifier with advanced features, aiming for top-tier performance. It's a unique product for those who value aesthetics and innovative design as much as audio quality.

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-54R

reviews

[{"title":"AMP-54R","link":"https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/enleum-amp-54r","source":"6 Moons","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

The AMP-54R is Enleum's new statement product and flagship amplifier. Building upon the latest achievements and advancements made with the AMP-23R and HPA-23RM, we have employed our absolute best technologies and uncompromising designs in the AMP-54R, making it a statement product.
The AMP-54R is Enleum's new statement product and flagship amplifier. Building upon the latest achievements and advancements made with the AMP-23R and HPA-23RM, we have employed our absolute best technologies and uncompromising designs in the AMP-54R, making it a statement product. The AMP-54R is the direct successor to our legacy AMP-51R, introduced in 2016 as a 100-watt amplifier featuring various novel ideas and engineering efforts. Since then, we have made significant technological advancements, including the development of the JET Bias, our proprietary software-controlled bias system. This breakthrough has enabled us to design the AMP-54R with next-level performance, stability, efficiency, and most importantly, sound quality. Along with the latest circuits, we have also achieved significant breakthroughs in industrial design, improving aesthetics, precision, rigidity and overall build quality.
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
$10,001-$20,000
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1
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234
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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.

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What if you spend more?

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Gryphon
Diablo 333
24900
24900
/
9
Reviews

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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Burmester
032
25000
25000
/
6
Reviews

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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AVIDHIFI
Sigsum
20252
20252
/
4
Reviews

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

Musical Obsession

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

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

awesome

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

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

AVID Hifi is a brand known for its turntables featuring unique engineering like sapphire bearings and dual-stage clamping systems that improve bass grip and soundstage projection. The brand's design philosophy involves developing technology in their high-end models and then adapting it for more affordable products, with their components made from solid aluminum and speakers weighing 100kg for exceptional build quality.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Trafomatic
Rhapsody
24122
24122
/
4
Reviews

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Chord Electronics
Ultima Integrated
11700
/
Released
2023
The ULTIMA INTEGRATED is a class-leading 125-watt integrated amplifier benefitting from the latest dual-feed-forward error-correction topology, Chord Electronics' legendary proprietary ultra-high-frequency power supplies, plus an unmistakable industrial aesthetic.
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Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Hegel
H600
12500
/
Released
2023
H600 is our reference integrated amplifier. With its 303 watts in 8 ohms, a damping factor of 4000, and 2 ohms drive capability, this powerhouse of an amplifier can drive any speaker with confidence and ease. The amplifier is a dual mono design, bringing it as close as possible to the performance of two mono amps in a single box. It also boasts a state-of-the-art preamplifier with the extremely precise volume attenuator found in our reference P30A amplifier.
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Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Known for producing all-in-one integrated amplifiers, Hegel has become a favorite among hi-fi enthusiasts and dealers worldwide. Their amplifiers are particularly praised for their exceptional bass control, attributed to their high damping factor, which ensures precise management of even difficult-to-drive speakers like planar magnetics and dipoles. With competitive pricing and high performance, Hegel integrateds stand out as some of the best options available for audiophiles seeking simplicity and excellence in a single component.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Mola Mola
Kula
15055
/
Released
2021
Imagine a sleek, compact design that oozes class. Imagine an amplifier design that packs enough power to comfortably handle even the most demanding of loudspeakers. Imagine a complex yet agile and easy to use fully transparent line stage. Imagine every possible Phono EQ setting available from the comfort of your listening chair. Imagine a highly acclaimed discrete DAC boasting the best specs and sound around. Imagine, combining all of the above! Reality. Is. Kula!
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Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Mola Mola is recognized for bringing innovative Class D amplification to hifi through the work of renowned engineer Bruno Putzeys. Their products deliver clean and efficient performance with extremely low distortion, and their DAC is considered among the best.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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MOON
641
10999
/
Released
2023
A thrilling integrated amplifier and gateway to the North Collection.
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MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

MOON by Simaudio is known for their warm and natural "MOON sound," achieved through their proprietary Lynx circuit that eliminates global-feedback loop in their amplifiers. Their products feature fully balanced circuitry and customizable interfaces, with designs that minimize noise and distortion while revealing intricate audio details without harshness.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Luxman
L-509Z
12495
/
Released
2023
Taking our Z-Series integrated amplifiers to a performance peak. As the premium model for the new Z-Series generation, the L-509Z has evolved beyond the concept of a traditional integrated amplifier. Both the preamplifier and power amplifier sections simultaneously use our new generation amplification feedback engine "LIFES" for the first time. The volume control is supported by our new "LECUA-EX" attenuator system that suppresses sound quality deterioration and realizes a more precise feel of operation.
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Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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