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.

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.

Manufacturer details

Completely rebuilt, vacuum tube version of Fezz Gratia phonostage. Signal amplification section is based on a two low-noise 12AU7 vacuum tubes. Special design power supply is based on the Supreme Audio Toroidy.pl transformer. Thanks to the easily accessible vacuum tubes, located under the sliding glass on the top panel, unit gives the opportunity to create and adjust sound tone according to your own taste. It`s brilliant dynamics, improved bass response and greater resolution of details make Gratia prestige an undeniable upgrade compared to previous model. The distinct character of vacuum tubes reveals an unique flavor to your audio, elevating your listening sessions to a level of sophistication that is synonymous with our brand.
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:

  • Fezz Audio leverages its parent company, Toroidy.pl, a specialized transformer manufacturer, to create unique toroidal transformers specifically designed for their tube amplifiers, a departure from the more common E-I core designs.
  • The brand often presents a sonic profile that balances traditional tube warmth with clarity, detail, and accurate frequency response, resulting in a sound that appeals to both tube enthusiasts and those seeking a more neutral presentation.
  • Fezz Audio uses readily available and relatively inexpensive tubes such as EL34s, KT88s and 12AX7s while retaining great performance, making tube replacement affordable.
  • They offer a range of customization options, such as different colors, Bluetooth connectivity, or home theater inputs, at an affordable price, allowing customers to tailor their amplifier to their specific needs and preferences.

TORUS 5060  

  • Positioning: A complete solid state integrated amplifier offering modern connectivity for everyday home audio.  
  • Description: It stands out with its built-in DAC, Bluetooth 5.0 streaming, and multiple digital and analogue inputs, a feature not seen in the tube-based models. In comparison to the power amplifiers and tube preamplifiers, it serves users with smaller rooms or multimedia setups at a more approachable price point.  

FEZZ TITANIA KOPIA  

  • Positioning: A versatile power amplifier offering both stereo and mono operation for flexible use.  
  • Description: It features dual-mode output (2×45W in stereo and 1×90W in mono) with an efficient push-pull design that delivers full-bodied yet neutral sound.

FEZZ SAGITA PRESTIGE  

  • Positioning: A tube line preamplifier introducing fully balanced XLR connectivity to the lineup.  
  • Description: It uses a balanced circuit with hand-selected vacuum tubes to offer warm, immersive tones and precise signal definition, a unique feature among Fezz products.

FEZZ MIRA CETI 300B EVOLUTION  

  • Positioning: A single-ended tube amplifier designed for authentic analogue reproduction with a focus on midrange clarity.  
  • Description: It is distinguished by the use of toroidal speaker transformers that deliver a saturated midrange and solid bass response, a rarity for single-ended designs. Compared to the higher-end Lybra, this model offers a balanced tube character ideal for those seeking true analogue warmth on a moderate premium while still providing robust dynamics.

FEZZ LYBRA 300B EVOLUTION  

  • Positioning: A high-end tube amplifier crafted for the most demanding audiophiles seeking superior tube sound quality.  
  • Description: It uses an unprecedented PSE structure with custom toroidal transformers and delayed anode voltage switching to ensure extended tube life and a spacious, linear soundstage, features not found in other models.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
6
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
192
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
28
Founding Year
2014

Our take on the brand

Fezz Audio distinguishes itself by being the first to implement toroidal output transformers in single-ended tube amplifiers, a design choice that enhances efficiency and reduces noise. Their Evolution series, developed in collaboration with the KABO & PYDO design studio, has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Design Award.

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?

One of the key technological innovations that differs Fezz from other manufacturers is the usage of patented toroidal output transformers in our tube amplifiers. While most tube amplifier manufacturers rely on traditional EI-core transformers, we design and build our amplifiers around custom toroidal output transformers. This results in lower magnetic leakage, much improved bandwidth, and more precise bass control—qualities that are not easy to achieve with conventional designs.

Secondly, we strongly believe in balancing modern engineering with classic tube sound. Our amplifiers are meticulously tuned to retain the musical warmth and dynamics that tube enthusiasts love, while also delivering the clarity, stability, and efficiency demanded by today's high-end audio systems.

What's your approach to customer support?

We handle customer support through a dedicated network of authorized dealers and distributors, who are the first point of contact for our customers. However, we also encourage direct contact with us if a customer needs additional help or feels their issue requires further attention. Our team is always ready to support end users with technical advice, service coordination, or general questions.

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

Great question! Music is the key to everything we do.

Melody Gardot – Worrisome Heart

Stacey Kent & Jim Tomlinson – So Nice

John Lee Hooker – Susie (feat. Johnny Winter)

Katie Melua – Piece by Piece

These tracks aren't just technical tests—they're emotionally engaging, which is exactly what we want our amplifiers to bring out in every listening session.

What other products pair best with yours?

We especially love pairing our amplifiers with Klipsch, and next is the Polish brand Pylon.

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Cambridge Audio
Edge NQ
4999
4999
/
11
Reviews

Impressively Revealing

With a revolutionary preamp circuit-board that reduces interference and an incredibly clean signal path, Edge NQ plays your favourite music with astonishing depth. Stream, plug-in and play to enjoy every note in perfect clarity.

Edge NQ Preamplifier With Network Player and Edge W

All the Sources

Edge NQ lets you enjoy music from any source. As well as digital coaxial, HDMI, USB and S/PDIF connections, there's also Chromecast built-in, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX HD, Internet Radio and UPnP Playback. Roon Ready certification enhances your browsing experience. Wherever songs are played from, Edge NQ stays true to the character of every instrument and uncovers a musicality you've never heard before.

Edge NQ Preamplifier with Network Player and Edge W

Astonishing Digital Detail

With a wealth of connections including digital coaxial, ARC (Audio Return Channel), USB and S/PDIF, our engineers have ensured that all of your digital content can be enjoyed, at up to 24-bit/384kHz and DSD 256. Edge NQ offers an incredibly revealing sound that has detailed tone, rhythmic drive and taut bass.

EDGE

Sonic Balance

Edge NQ was designed with a unique PCB. Our engineers replaced conventional capacitors with a DC coupled topology and also added a solid state volume control. The end result is a clean signal path that's perfectly balanced at any volume.

EDGE

Award-Winning Streaming Software

Edge NQ boasts the very latest version of our award-winning streaming module. Designed in-house, right here in the UK, it features a new, faster chipset and support for both 24bit/192kHz and DSD128 files. The addition of Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, AirPlay, Bluetooth aptX HD and Internet radio means you can enjoy your music whatever the source. Roon Ready certification enhances your browsing experience.

Edge NQ Preamplifier and Network Player close-up of volume dial

Chromecast Built‑in

Thanks to Chromecast Built-in hundreds of music services, including Sirius XM & Soundcloud, can be enjoyed on the Edge NQ. Just tap the cast button in your favourite app to stream music from your smartphone, tablet or laptop in stunning high definition sound, up to 24bit/96kHz.

Edge NQ Preamplifier and Network Player close-up

Fixed Line-out Mode

If you wish to connect the Edge NQ to an integrated amplifier rather than a power amplifier, the streaming functionality can be used independently of the preamplifier. The preamplifier can be disabled via the dedicated Edge app for iOS and Android.

Edge NQ Preamplifier with Network Player and Edge W

Perfect Partners

Edge systems are designed to work in perfect synchronisation. Match the Edge NQ with our highest performing power amplifier, Edge W, to create a hi-fi system with a sound, and a look, unlike anything else.

Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exemplary build quality, with a visually pleasing design
  • The StreamMagic app is well-made and capable, offering a good user experience
  • Delivers music in an extremely lifelike manner, limited more by the source than its own limitations
  • Offers a strong musical sense of rhythm across all inputs, contributing to a well-rounded performance
  • Presents a clear, bold, and spacious presentation

Product Considerations

  • The volume dial may be slightly loose
  • Lacks a phono analog input
  • The acceptance angle of the remote sensor is limited
  • The USB has trouble with large music collections
  • The high frequencies can be bright with the system

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Musical Fidelity M8Xi: The M8Xi has more power output and exhibits more control over loudspeakers, but lacks the built-in streaming of the Edge NQ
  • Vs Naim electronics: The Edge system is neutral, and not as warm as the Naim electronics
  • Vs Gold Note DS-10: Provides a bigger soundstage and more detail
  • Vs PS Audio DSD Jr: The Cambridge Audio Edge NQ and the PS Audio DSD Jr are sonically comparable, but the NQ delivers more precise lateral focus

Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Edge NQ is a versatile, well-designed preamplifier and network streamer that delivers high-quality sound. It provides an enjoyable listening experience, making it a great choice for those seeking both performance and elegant aesthetics.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Primare
SP25 Prisma
4985
4985
/
4
Reviews
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The SP25 Prisma includes 4K dynamic HDR switching and eARC
  • Eleven channels of processing and preamplification
  • Dual eight channel DAC chips allow for unique digital to analogue conversion, allocating four channels of conversion when delivering signal to the pair of front left and right analogue outputs
  • Versatile, with single ended analog inputs, USB, coaxial and optical digital inputs, and HDMI inputs
  • Prisma streamer, wired and wireless

Product Considerations

  • Good surround sound gets expensive fast
  • Operation and setup can be complex

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The SP25 Prisma lacks the power amplifiers of the SPA25 Prisma, making it only an AV processor or preamplifier

Takeaway: The SP25 Prisma is designed for cinephiles and audiophiles. It provides the best home cinema experience with carefully considered features and functionality.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Holo Audio
Serene
2698
2698
/
4
Reviews
Holo Audio has established itself as a leader in the modern mid-level R-2R DAC movement, focusing on creating DACs with a natural, rich sound that emphasizes musicality over pure detail. Like Denafrips, Holo Audio is known for precise engineering, low noise levels, and exceptional value, offering performance that rivals far more expensive competitors. With a similar approach and price range, Holo Audio is frequently mentioned alongside Denafrips as a top choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound without the high-end price tag.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Our summary

Product Strengths

  • Highly detailed, clear, and clean sound with musicality, but without sterility
  • The KTE version includes a beautiful aluminum remote
  • Truth, neutrality, and accuracy, making it fun to listen to music
  • Enhanced spatial presentation, adding force and rhythmic nuance
  • First class build quality
  • It does not have a built-in DAC or phono preamp

Product Considerations

  • The buttons on the remote are a bit loose
  • It is not possible to directly select inputs, it is necessary to click through

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to ModWright LS-99, the Serene KTE is more accurate and neutral, while the ModWright LS-99 is juicier
  • Compared to Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL, the Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL added more midrange warmth and flavor

Takeaway: The Serene is a preamplifier that offers a clean and neutral sound, and it is excellent for those who want to hear the sound of other components without coloration. It is built with high-quality components.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Holo Audio has established itself as a leader in the modern mid-level R-2R DAC movement, focusing on creating DACs with a natural, rich sound that emphasizes musicality over pure detail. Like Denafrips, Holo Audio is known for precise engineering, low noise levels, and exceptional value, offering performance that rivals far more expensive competitors. With a similar approach and price range, Holo Audio is frequently mentioned alongside Denafrips as a top choice for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound without the high-end price tag.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
AGD
Alto MKII
4999
4999
/
4
Reviews
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Fully balanced design provides less noise and coloration to the sound.
  • Supports both moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono cartridges with a high-performance phono stage.
  • Passive ladder volume control with precision resistors provides superior channel separation, low distortion, and high signal integrity.
  • Superior noise performance and extended bandwidth, with a very low THD+N and wide frequency response.
  • Large, high-resolution display is visible from a distance

Product Considerations

  • Limited features for its price, lacking an internal DAC, room correction, or bass management.
  • Small, non-standard form factor might not match other hifi equipment aesthetically.
  • Limited to one balanced input and one balanced output.
  • Reviewers noted a chintzy plastic remote that needs to be synced.
  • Sensitive to cable changes and may exhibit high-frequency noise if XLR cables are not connected

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Alto was equal in sonic performance to the Amped America AAP-1, but the AAP-1 has dead-neutral tonality.
  • There is not a lot missing between the Alto and the Bricasti Design M20 preamplifier in terms of sound, but at a little more than double the price, the Bricasti Design M20 had better dynamics and ultra-fine resolution.
  • Both the Alto and the Pass Labs XP-12 stereo preamp are very high-end stereo preamps that do just that—do what they say on the box.
  • Trilogy's set emerged rounder, bloomier, more massive, and atmospheric against the quick snappy team AGD that prioritized dynamics, outlines, clarity, and had its spatial projections sensibly more oxygenated.
  • The Alto is like the Anthem without the DAC and streamer.

Takeaway: The Alto preamplifier is well-engineered to provide clean, high-quality sound, and it's a good choice for audiophiles who prioritize core preamp functions. It offers great performance for vinyl and digital sources when additional features aren't needed.

Video review

Our take on the brand

AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Hegel
V10
1650
/
Released
2021
The Hegel V10 is a brand-new take on an old technology. With 30 years' experience designing state-of-the-art discrete transistor circuits, we have built a phono preamplifier like no other. It is neutral, dynamic, and exceptionally revealing. We have used all our knowledge in amplification and applied it to one goal - To reach down into the record and reveal every bit of information.
Check Amazon
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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Ultra-low noise with remarkably quiet backgrounds and effortless transparency
  • Delivers Al Harewood's delicate brush work with an outstanding balance of brush "edge" and "swish"
  • Clear and distinct sound, with a soundstage that is tall, wide, and deep
  • Natural and matter-of-fact nature, one that doesn't feel processed or constrained in any particular way
  • The V10 is a highly musical phonostage that resolves fine details, honors tonal colors, and allows the dynamic life in music to breathe at levels that belie the unit's modest price

Product Considerations

  • Adjustments to capacitance, gain, and impedance are accomplished by means of a bank of DIP switches on the rear panel, which can be a bit confusing
  • The instruction manual states it's possible to set impedance "freely between 50 and 550 ohms" and add 6 addition dB of gain, but to do so contact your Hegel dealer for more information
  • Not as versatile as the PS Audio Stellar
  • The V10 does not try to mask physical imperfections on the record

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Simaudio MOON by Simaudio 610LP—the Hegel V10 performs so well in comparison to the much more expensive 610LP as to be encouraging
  • Vs Aurorasound VIDA Prima—the Hegel V10 seemed to pull out more detail than the VIDA Prima
  • Vs Aqvox Phono 2 Ci—V10 allows one to easily explore the musicians' context and intent better
  • Vs Rega Aria 3—the V10 betters it by quite a way, showing how the Hegel has a more incisive and detailed nature

Takeaway: The Hegel V10 is a great sounding, well-made phono stage that produces the 3D, of both the music and the space behind it, while honoring the purity and simplicity of the recording. It has connectivity and configurability as well.

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
Product Page
Product Page
Primare
R35
1679
/
Released
R35 is our most sophisticated and capable MM/MC phono preamplifier, providing the ideal interface between the low-level output of a moving magnet or moving coil phono cartridge and the line-level inputs of your hi-fi system, either RCA or XLR.
Check Amazon
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Comprehensive spec sheet
  • Versatile phono stage with balanced outputs offers greater levels of gain
  • Depth, detail, and an analogue character
  • Flexible and capable
  • Extracts the very best from any cartridge
  • The casework feels solid and beautifully finished

Product Considerations

  • Adjusting capacitance and loading via hidden dip switches under two small covers for left and right channels is a little trickier than the previous model's dial adjusters
  • DIP switches are fiddly to use
  • Busiest and brightest recordings can appear just a little sanitised

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The R35 offers a thorough update of its feature set, making it—on paper at least—one of the most versatile phono stages on the market today
  • The R35 ups the ante by some margin, despite looking deceptively identical to the retired R32 front on
  • Compared to the Hegel V10, the R35 is more playful dynamically with fatter bass, there is more depth in the soundscape, and a slightly larger range of timbres

Takeaway: The R35 is a versatile phono stage that can extract the best from any cartridge and has a comprehensive spec sheet. It offers depth, detail, and an analogue character that underlines vinyl's enduring appeal.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Musical Fidelity
M6x Vinyl
2399
/
Released
2021
The M6x ViNYL is a very high performance, highly accurate phono MM/MC cartridge amplifier in a beautifully designed and executed casework. We set out to make a phono stage without any practical limits. It's designed in such a way to ensure you cannot overload the input stage or encounter any practical limitations in the output driving capacity during regular use, whether running single-ended or balanced.
Check Amazon
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Crisp, clean, and spacious tone, which is fun to listen to, tonally neutral, and detailed
  • Good and solid build quality

Product Considerations

  • Substandard interface, with tiny buttons and labels, can be difficult to use
  • In single-ended mode, the sound presentation can have slightly edgy mids
  • Smaller interface font than the M6 makes the values slightly harder to read
  • Size and weight might require sturdy shelf support

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • M6x has an appreciable reduction in its noise floor and improved dynamic range compared to M6 Vinyl
  • M6x has a slightly well-lit upper midband and a drier and leaner bass compared to ModWright PH 9.0 tube phono stage
  • M6x Vinyl is a clear step up, having a crisp, clean, and spacious tone compared to Rega Aria Mk3

Takeaway: The M6x is a versatile phono stage that offers balanced connections, multiple inputs and solid build quality. It is sonically neutral and lets records speak for themselves.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Kinki Studio
EX-P7
2098
/
Released
2022
The EX Series has been fine-tuned to achieve a well-balanced sound quality with smooth extension at both the high and low ends of the frequency spectrum. The EX-P7 preamp features a true Class-A bias, as well as fully discrete input and output stages, which are the cornerstone of its design. This results in a rich, detailed, and high-resolution sound that is sure to impress even the most discerning audiophiles. Furthermore, the preamp boasts a silky-smooth volume control, thanks to its discrete R2R volume control. This type of volume control is renowned for its precise and accurate adjustments, which are made possible through the use of precision-matched resistors.
Check Amazon
Kinki Studio is known for delivering high-end sound quality at relatively affordable prices, particularly through their EX-M1+ integrated amplifier that's often compared favorably to much more expensive models. The brand appeals to audio purists through their focus on pure amplification without additional features, using design elements like dual mono power supplies, relay-based volume control, and capacitor-free signal paths to achieve exceptional performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a 'truthful' signal transmission with attributes of speed, low noise, vanishing grain, and purity—delivering a solid sonic performance
  • Excellent build quality, with robust aluminum chassis and quality parts
  • The knobs offer a silky-smooth feel, and the remote is well-designed and easy to use
  • Offers a detailed sound

Product Considerations

  • The XLR inputs and outputs are more for interface convenience, as the internal circuitry is single-ended
  • Some reviewers note a lack of density in the lower midrange compared to other preamps
  • The EX-P7 can sound too analytical if paired with already analytical components
  • May not match high-end SET amplifiers in accurately conveying timbre and texture of vocals

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Denafrips Athena preamp, the EX-P7 is faster, more linear and agile, but lacks some density in the lower midrange
  • Vs Kinki Studio EX-M1 Integrated Amplifier, the EX-P7 (paired with EX-B7 monoblocks) sounds beefier, more extended in the bass, and rounder, while the EX-M1 is leaner and feistier
  • Vs Audia Flight FLS1 preamplifier, EX-B7 monoblocks combined with the FLS1 gained resolution, clarity and transparency

Takeaway: The Kinki Studio EX-P7 preamp is well-built and offers a technically correct sound, making it a great option for those seeking a detailed and revealing listening experience when paired with the right components. It is designed with quality components, inside and out, and the overall product exudes quality.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Kinki Studio is known for delivering high-end sound quality at relatively affordable prices, particularly through their EX-M1+ integrated amplifier that's often compared favorably to much more expensive models. The brand appeals to audio purists through their focus on pure amplification without additional features, using design elements like dual mono power supplies, relay-based volume control, and capacitor-free signal paths to achieve exceptional performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Primare
SC15 Prisma MK2
2099
/
Released
2024
With SC15 Prisma MK2, Primare has created the perfect partner for our Silverback wireless speakers. The incredible flexibility, build quality and powerful performance set an inspiringly high standard for a modern music system. The SC15 MK2 is the brain of the system, connecting all your audio sources, whether wireless or wired.
Check Amazon
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent streaming capabilities with support for AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, and Bluetooth
  • Versatile functionality as a streamer, DAC, and preamplifier
  • The Prisma app is easy to use and allows for customization of settings and access to streaming services
  • Good sound quality with a fresh, energetic, dynamic, and well-timed presentation using either digital or analogue sources
  • Offers multi-room functionality, digital EQ, and room correction

Product Considerations

  • The built-in DAC may not be as good as separate—higher-end DACs
  • Sound quality using Chromecast and AirPlay may not be as good as using a direct USB connection
  • The USB drive playback interface in the Prisma app may have issues with track ordering

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Primare SC15 Prisma Mk2 has more inputs, better build quality, and Chromecast than the Bluesound Node 2i, while the Node 2i is Roon Ready and has more polished software (BluOS)

Takeaway: The Primare SC15 Prisma Mk2 is a well-rounded device that combines streaming, DAC, and preamp functionalities into a single, stylish unit that provides a wide range of inputs and a good overall sound experience. It's a great option for those looking to simplify their setup without sacrificing features or sound quality.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

How to buy

Preamplifiers

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.