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
- Incredibly beautiful in real life, a stunning piece of industrial art
- Sounds neutral and clear
- Can be safely run with speakers that have impedances that drop below two ohms
- Smooth, clean, and articulate sound
- Resolving and very good with dynamic transients
Product Considerations
- Purely analog amp, no DAC, streaming engine, or digital inputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- AMP-150 has better treble, but the Hegel has better slam and depth
- AMP-150 is tighter, quicker, faster, more neutral, and more transparent
- AMP-150 is more resolving
- AMP-150 is more resolving and has better layering
Takeaway: The AMP-150 is a well-built amplifier that sounds great and looks beautiful, making it a standout piece in any hifi audio setup. It offers a unique listening experience with its ability to deliver both power and nuance.
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-150 AE
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Output power: 2x 150 W RMS 8 Ω / 2x 250 W RMS 4 Ω
- Input impedance: 20kΩ RCA or 40kΩ Balanced
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz ± 0.5 dB, and 2 Hz - 100 kHz ± 3 dB
- Preamplifier output impedance: 100 Ω RCA and 200 Ω Balanced
- Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0,05 % at rated power
- Signal to Noise ratio: A-weighted > 100 dB
- Voltage gain: 27 dB (+10 dB headroom)
- Recommended speaker load: 4 Ω - 16 Ω
- Power consumption stdb/idle/max: < 1W/40W/600W
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 325 x 105 x 420 mm / 12.8 x 4.1 x 16.5"
- Weight: 14 kg / 30.4 lb
Description
An integrated amplifier of the highest aesthetic, technical and audio reproductive quality. Beautiful, simple and functional by design. As easy as childs play to operate. Resourceful enough to hold the most power-hungry speakers in a viselike grip, yet at the same time musical, respectful and authentic.
An integrated amplifier of the highest aesthetic, technical and audio reproductive quality. Beautiful, simple and functional by design. As easy as childs play to operate. Resourceful enough to hold the most power-hungry speakers in a viselike grip, yet at the same time musical, respectful and authentic.
Teaching it to sing
Thousands of hours have passed while "voicing", a process where each and every component has been carefully selected and optimised to ensure that the AMP-150 does not leave any fingerprints on the music. The way the AMP-150 plays is therefore quite unusual; aurally, this is about the closest you can get to a straight wire with built-in amplification.
Pure Power!
With more than 250W RMS @ 4ohms available in each channel, the AMP-150 delivers more than enough voltage to avoid clipping in the high peaks, offering loads of headroom and musical freedom.
TwinFET Technology
The Gato Audio TwinFET technology has been developed to counter problems and compromises that are present in the majority of power amplifiers. Our TwinFET circuit solves these electrical and sonic problems at the point where they are created, thereby avoiding adding compromising correctional circuits and components.
This is the basic reason why you will only find two output transistors per channel in the AMP-150s output stage, one for the positive and one for the negative part of a sine wa...
Teaching it to sing
Thousands of hours have passed while "voicing", a process where each and every component has been carefully selected and optimised to ensure that the AMP-150 does not leave any fingerprints on the music. The way the AMP-150 plays is therefore quite unusual; aurally, this is about the closest you can get to a straight wire with built-in amplification.
Pure Power!
With more than 250W RMS @ 4ohms available in each channel, the AMP-150 delivers more than enough voltage to avoid clipping in the high peaks, offering loads of headroom and musical freedom.
TwinFET Technology
The Gato Audio TwinFET technology has been developed to counter problems and compromises that are present in the majority of power amplifiers. Our TwinFET circuit solves these electrical and sonic problems at the point where they are created, thereby avoiding adding compromising correctional circuits and components.
This is the basic reason why you will only find two output transistors per channel in the AMP-150s output stage, one for the positive and one for the negative part of a sine wa...
Release Timeline
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:
- Gato Audio products exhibit a distinct design aesthetic, characterized by elegant curves, brushed aluminum, and the option for high-gloss black, white, or walnut top covers.
- The brand incorporates high-quality DACs, often Burr-Brown PCM1794A chips, with upsampling of digital signals to 24-bit/192kHz for enhanced sound reproduction.
- They integrate a custom-designed network player module (NPM) that offers extensive streaming capabilities and Roon endpoint functionality, transforming their amplifiers into versatile all-in-one solutions.
- Gato amplifiers aim to emulate the sonic characteristics of Class AB amplifiers while utilizing the efficient, cool-running Class D topology, often employing International Rectifier circuits in their designs.
Select products
Select product comparisons
DIA-250S NPM
- Positioning: Positioned as a versatile and cost-effective integrated amplifier in Gato Audio's lineup.
- Description: Offers a powerful 250W per channel output with a built-in Roon Ready network player. Its Class-D amplification and advanced D/A converter provide smooth and detailed audio, distinguishing it from the more powerful DIA-400S NPM. This model is suitable for small to medium-sized rooms and offers excellent value for those with a moderate budget, while still providing extensive connectivity options for various digital sources.
AMP-150
- Positioning: Gato Audio's reference integrated amplifier, known for its high aesthetic and technical quality.
- Description: Features Gato Audio's TwinFET technology, which ensures minimal distortion and a pure sound. With 150W per channel, it offers less power than the DIA-400S NPM but focuses on delivering a more traditional analog sound experience.
DIA-400S NPM
- Positioning: The flagship model in Gato Audio's integrated amplifier series, offering the highest power and advanced features.
- Description: Combines a robust 400W per channel Class-D amplifier with a Roon Ready network player, providing exceptional performance for demanding audio setups. Its advanced digital and analog connectivity, along with high-definition Bluetooth, sets it apart from the DIA-250S NPM.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
3
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
289
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
19
Founding Year
2007
Our take on the brand
Gato, a Danish hifi brand, combines Scandinavian minimalist design with advanced technical features, including femto clocks and seven low-noise voltage regulators in their streaming DACs. Their integrated amplifiers feature active cooling systems and custom-tuned analog circuitry, all housed in their distinctive "fresh Royal" design that distinguishes them from conventional hifi offerings.
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Used
Gato
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
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Enleum
AMP-23R
6250
6250
/
19
Reviews
Enleum was launched as a new brand with the AMP-23R. While our legacy AMP-13R had already been praised all around the world for its performance and unique design, we pushed the boundaries to create the AMP-23R with a new circuit that truly enhances the existing performance. We have drastically improved the PCB circuit board design, chosen new internal components and upgraded our JET2 Bias design. And the reviews and awards are unanimous. The AMP-23R's physical size and footprint may be compact, but with the all new chassis and thermal heatsink design, we've launched a product that's fit for the next generation reference compact amplifier. The unique design is the DNA of our new Enleum Brand and was already awarded the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021 and iF Design Gold Award 2022. The AMP-23R proudly showcases Enleum's expertise in technology and design.
Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Addictive sound signature, unlike any other amp, with otherworldly instrument and voice reproduction
- Delivers serious magic with Fleetwood Deville and Klipsch Heritage speakers, revealing obscure details and creating a massive soundstage
- Dynamics for days
- Combines the qualities of a nice SET amp without the downsides, like noise or tube replacement
- Exceptional build quality and design with high-quality parts
- Only has two RCA inputs, no XLR balanced connections
Product Considerations
- Heavy speaker cables can cause the amp to tilt
- The volume dial functions as a gain dial, which may be different than what some users are accustomed to
- May not be suitable for hard-to-drive speakers in the 85db range that dip into 2–4 ohms
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The AMP23R offers more texture, layering, mid-bass, and vocal presence than Nagra INT
- The AMP23R is more organic, ethereal, and dynamic than Kinki Studio EXM1
- It sounds better than the Vinnie Rossi L2iSE, so long as the speakers are easy to drive
- The Enleum has more delicacy and finesse than Pass Labs and Cary Audio
- The AMP23R stacks up with the finest gear such as ampsandsound Bryce monoblocks
- Pass Labs First Watt SIT-3 offers a bit more organic, warmer presentation
Takeaway: The Enleum AMP-23R is a small but mighty integrated amplifier with a unique and addictive sound signature, and it is built with high-quality components. It's a great choice for those with sensitive speakers looking for a reference-quality system in a compact package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
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Feliks Audio
Envy
7345
7345
/
14
Reviews
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with a blend of expertly crafted wood and metal, creating a visually striking and durable statement piece
- Dynamic, rich, and effortless sound with excellent detail, texture, and the right amount of tube magic
- Powerful output capable of driving demanding headphones while maintaining clarity and control
- Versatile performance with a variety of headphones (dynamic and planar) due to its output transformer design, often improving sound for warm or neutral headphones
- Value added by its ability to be used as a pre-amplifier in a stereo system
Product Considerations
- Large size and weight (around 15kg) require ample desk space and sturdy furniture
- Generates heat, which could be a concern in warmer environments without adequate ventilation
- Accidental switching of 'On/Off' is possible due to the touch-sensitive bar in the front not being intuitive, so use with care around pets
- Too powerful for some very sensitive IEMs, potentially resulting in overwhelming sound or audible hiss, though this is not the intended design for the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Susvara, Envy empowers Susvara's natural presentation while giving it all the dynamics and slam needed
- Vs Cayin HA-300MkII, Envy exhibits more linear mid-to-high frequencies and offers a more transparent sound, while HA-300MkII has a warmer—more engaging midrange
- Vs AURIS Headonia 2A3, Envy performs at the same level, with technically incredibly strong aspects
- Vs Octave V 16, Envy completely demolishes the V 16 when it comes to energy, control, timbre, and resolution
- Vs Ferrum OOR, Envy is more powerful sounding, while also being more detailed with better tonality
Takeaway:
The Felix Audio Envy is a high-end headphone amplifier for audio enthusiasts who want the best quality sound to bring out the magic in their favorite headphones. Its stunning design and versatile performance make it a worthwhile addition to any serious audiophile setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Product Page
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Naim
Uniti Nova
6899
6899
/
13
Reviews
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Combines comprehensive functionality, connectivity and usability with good performance, and elegant design
- Exceptional sound quality is described as refined, muscular, detailed, confident, transparent, and natural
- Easy to use, has a great control app, a remote, and an intuitive interface that removes itself from the system
- Well-built with premium materials, including CNC-machined aluminum casework, finned heat sinks, and a hefty toroidal transformer
- Has a musicality that makes it hard to be objective about, the music flows as you listen and makes you want to repeat
Product Considerations
- Overheating may occur due to undersized heatsinks under demanding conditions
- Naim's speaker connectors may be unique, although banana plugs are an acceptable workaround
- Although a detail performer, it isn't the quietest digital source or imaging performer in the market
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Uniti Star: The Nova has a more substantial amplifier section, with greater current delivery and stability into tricky loads
- Vs SuperUniti: The Nova offers a more dynamic, detailed, fluid, and natural sound–with a bigger soundstage
- Vs Chord Electronics CPM2800 MkII: The Nova is closer spiritually to separates like the Chord CPM2800 MkII than to other all-in-one systems
- Vs NAD M10: The Naim Unit Nova has full unwavering control of the entire frequency range, from the deepest chest-thumping bass to the most delicate highs
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: The Nova has more power to get a good result in bigger rooms, whereas the Atom needs to be in a smaller room
Takeaway: The Naim Uniti Nova is a well-designed and easy-to-use all-in-one system that combines comprehensive functionality with very good sound quality. It's a good choice for those who want a convenient and high-performing audio solution without the complexity of separates.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Product Page
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Luxman
L-507Z
8995
8995
/
11
Reviews
Luxman’s new generation Z series integrated amplifiers. The L-507Z is the debut model heralding our new generation of amplifier products. Featuring our newly developed LIFES amplification feedback engine, we look towards the future of Luxman. This amplifier has realized a dramatic development in musicality that goes far beyond its class. L-507Z combines advanced technology and sophisticated functionality. Our new, innovative Z series integrated amplifier generation begins with this superb model.
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.
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Product Strengths
- Delivers music with a very pure, low-grain tonality, not compromised by frequency response or dynamic trickery
- Beautifully crafted with a traditional, recognizable Luxman aesthetic and excellent build quality
- Has enough power to drive a wide range of speakers
- Possesses a good moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono stage
- Features the new Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES) amplifier topology
Product Considerations
- The volume control can be finicky and hard to dial in
- Some reviewers wished it had separate phono inputs for MM and MC cartridges, instead of a selectable one
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Hegel H590, the Hegel has more relaxed sound, while the Luxman has a more forward presentation, brilliance and sheen—the Hegel had better bass control
- The 507Z is a step up from the Luxman L-507UX2 with improved aesthetics, including a new LED display
- Versus the Luxman L-590II (Class A), the L-590II is slightly warmer, but less dynamic
- Some 509X owners preferred the Luxman L-507Z
Takeaway: The Luxman L-507Z is a beautiful and well-built amplifier that produces pure, high-quality sound. It has enough power for most speakers and offers versatile features like tone controls and a phono stage, making it a great choice for an all-in-one audio solution.
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.
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What competes at this price?
Gato
DIA-400S
4088
/
Released
2023
The Gato Audio DIA-400S is all about merging the best sound quality with the best and most versatile features. The all new Gato Audio DIA-400S has been thoroughly updated compared to the standard DIA-400. We wanted to get the performance even closer to that of our AMP-150 integrated amplifier but keeping all the versatile features and even adding a high quality aptX Bluetooth receiver.
Gato, a Danish hifi brand, combines Scandinavian minimalist design with advanced technical features, including femto clocks and seven low-noise voltage regulators in their streaming DACs. Their integrated amplifiers feature active cooling systems and custom-tuned analog circuitry, all housed in their distinctive "fresh Royal" design that distinguishes them from conventional hifi offerings.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Immense power, outputting 400 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 800 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- Beautiful design, described as museum-worthy, with a sleek aluminum front, large display, silky volume knob, and curved heatsinks
- As an all-in-one integrated amplifier, the DIA-400S includes a very good DAC inside
- The DIA-400S runs cool and is dead silent in operation, with no buzzing, humming, or noise
- Smooth, muscular, dynamic, and offers effortless power
Product Considerations
- Out of the box, the DIA-400S can sound leaner, more focused on clarity, and a little brighter, but improves with burn-in
- The RCA connectors and speaker binding posts are more generic than the higher-quality WBT connectors found on the Gato Amp 150
- Does not have a phono stage
- The top end is not as airy or holographic as some Class A or A/B amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Aavik U-150: The DIA-400S is leaner and more correct, while the Aavik puts a little romance into the music, the Aavik has more inner details and texture, is warmer, richer, and tonally thicker, with more detail and air
- Vs Michi X3: The DIA-400S has more body, warmth, and smoothness, with a greater sense of power and ease
Takeaway: The Gato DIA-400S is a beautiful and powerful all-in-one integrated amplifier, perfect for those seeking a simple, high-quality digital streaming solution. It delivers a smooth, musical sound and has enough power to drive any speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gato, a Danish hifi brand, combines Scandinavian minimalist design with advanced technical features, including femto clocks and seven low-noise voltage regulators in their streaming DACs. Their integrated amplifiers feature active cooling systems and custom-tuned analog circuitry, all housed in their distinctive "fresh Royal" design that distinguishes them from conventional hifi offerings.
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Gato
DIA-400S NPM
4717
/
Released
2021
The reference in Class-D amplification with our all new Roon Ready streaming module built-in is an absolute killer among the one box solutions in the market today.
Gato, a Danish hifi brand, combines Scandinavian minimalist design with advanced technical features, including femto clocks and seven low-noise voltage regulators in their streaming DACs. Their integrated amplifiers feature active cooling systems and custom-tuned analog circuitry, all housed in their distinctive "fresh Royal" design that distinguishes them from conventional hifi offerings.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Warm, smooth, muscular, and dynamic sound with effortless massive power
- Artful and gorgeous design, potentially museum-worthy, with a sleek aluminum front, large display, and silky volume knob
- Dead silent in operation and runs cooler than most class A or A/B amps
- The built-in DAC is very good, making it a great one-box solution for digital music
Product Considerations
- The sound can be a bit crystal clear and lean out of the box, requiring burn-in time to reach its full potential
- The top end may not be as airy or holographic as some Class A or AB amps
- It will not sweeten up or add flavor to the sound, so bad recordings will still sound bad
- The Bluetooth sound is flatter and thinner compared to using a proper streamer into the Gato DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Aavik U-150: The Aavik is warmer, richer, and has more detail and air, but the Gato gets close at a much lower price
- Vs Michi X3: The Gato has more body, warmth, and smoothness, with a greater sense of power and ease
Takeaway: The Gato DIA-400S is a powerful and beautiful integrated amp that delivers a warm and smooth sound, making it a great all-in-one solution for those who value both performance and design. It offers effortless power and a musical presentation that can connect you with your music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gato, a Danish hifi brand, combines Scandinavian minimalist design with advanced technical features, including femto clocks and seven low-noise voltage regulators in their streaming DACs. Their integrated amplifiers feature active cooling systems and custom-tuned analog circuitry, all housed in their distinctive "fresh Royal" design that distinguishes them from conventional hifi offerings.
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Cambridge Audio
EVO 150
2999
/
Released
2021
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box. And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
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.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
- The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
- Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
- Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
- The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal
Product Considerations
- The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
- There is a noted lack of bass management
- The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
- Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
- One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
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Naim
Uniti Atom Headphone Edition
3799
/
Released
2021
There is no easier way for you to get up close and personal with music than with the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition; put on your headphones, take yourself away, with no distractions. For even more flexibility, you can keep up to three headphones plugged in and switch sets depending on your listening preference.
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
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Audiolab
9000A
2999
/
Released
2022
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It's more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet.
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sonic clarity, detail resolution, and control
- Sturdy build and fine finish with solid casework and nicely damped
- Flexible product offering integrated, pre-amp, or pre-power combo options
- Balanced nature means that no particular genre of music is favored above any other
- Impressively equipped with a wide range of inputs including RCA, XLR, Coax, Optical, USB B, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and LDAC
Product Considerations
- Dynamic contrasts could be stronger
- Rhythmic drive could be stronger
- Phono stage a little flat-footed
- The display graphics on the screen can be on the small side to read from across a room
- Treble could be more exciting and dynamic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audiolab 6000A: Offers better instrumental separation, clarity of guitar strings, and a fuller bass response
- Vs Naim Nait XS3 or Rega Elicit Mk5: Delivers less entertainment and rhythmic drive
Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000A is a capable and flexible amplifier offering sonic clarity and a range of features to slot easily into most systems. It charms and delights, never forcing music onto your ears but always upgrading the sound for great speaker performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
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