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
- 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.
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
DIA-400S NPM
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 400 W / 8 Ω - 2x 800 W / 4 Ω
- Frequency response: 20 Hz-20 kHz - 0.5 dB, and 2 Hz-70 kHz - 3 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0,01% at rated power
- Signal to noise ratio: > 110 dB
- Line out maximum level: 13V balanced, 6,5V unbalanced
- Input impedance: 20 kO RCA or 40 kO Balanced
- Line output impedance: 75 O
- Voltage gain: 26 dB (+10 db headroom)
- Recommended speaker load: 4 -16 O
- Power consumption stdb/idle/max: < 1W/35W/1600W
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 325 x 105 x 420 mm / 12.8 x 4.1 x 16.5"
- Weight: 11 kg / 22 lb
Description
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.
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.
Our reference in Class-D amplification
The DIA-400S amplifier offers a state of the art Class-D output stage with dedicated and optimized switch mode power supplies. The multiple stage power amplifier is built around proven technology from International Rectifier, optimized with a precision high frequency oscillator and PWM modulator. A pair of precision switching MOS-FET transistors, with super low on-resistance ensures the high frequency switching is done perfectly and with as little loss as possible. The output filters are made from quality PP capacitors and low DCR coils, converting the high power PWM signals back into detailed and smooth analogue music.
Built-in D/A converter
The built-in D/A converter offers real high end performance, enabled by the use of a dedicated power supply, a balanced-drive Burr-Brown PCM1794 D/A converter, an optimized high bandwidth I/V converter, and an analogue stage with low-Q, low pass filters. All digital inputs are upsampled to 24bit/192kHz. This D/A converter will upgrade any digital source - such as wired or wireless streaming from your computer or CD drive - to a high end level of detail and musical performance.
Versatility and Connectivity
We had our eye on versatility...
Our reference in Class-D amplification
The DIA-400S amplifier offers a state of the art Class-D output stage with dedicated and optimized switch mode power supplies. The multiple stage power amplifier is built around proven technology from International Rectifier, optimized with a precision high frequency oscillator and PWM modulator. A pair of precision switching MOS-FET transistors, with super low on-resistance ensures the high frequency switching is done perfectly and with as little loss as possible. The output filters are made from quality PP capacitors and low DCR coils, converting the high power PWM signals back into detailed and smooth analogue music.
Built-in D/A converter
The built-in D/A converter offers real high end performance, enabled by the use of a dedicated power supply, a balanced-drive Burr-Brown PCM1794 D/A converter, an optimized high bandwidth I/V converter, and an analogue stage with low-Q, low pass filters. All digital inputs are upsampled to 24bit/192kHz. This D/A converter will upgrade any digital source - such as wired or wireless streaming from your computer or CD drive - to a high end level of detail and musical performance.
Versatility and Connectivity
We had our eye on versatility...
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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What if you spend more?
Musical Fidelity
Nu-Vista 800.2
8999
8999
/
11
Reviews
The Nu-Vista 800 was an amplifier that has enjoyed much popularity and use as a high end hybrid integrated over the past few years. Unfortunately, as with all things encompassing modern, as well as more traditional technology, parts were discontinued. The original “retro look” display was suddenly no longer produced at very short notice. We were therefore left with a choice - discontinue a popular amplifier or workaround and replace the original with updated version but as unchanged as possible from the original formula. The Nu-Vista 800.2 measures like a dream but, more importantly, it sounds incredible. It is silky smooth with enormous transients and an effortless feel that is at once relaxing and involving. Of special note how the Nu-Vista 800.2 projects images between the loudspeakers so that you can almost touch them.
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.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality and power output meters
- Hugely revealing performer with warm, rich, and smooth sound
- More power than most will ever need
- Dual-mono design with nuvistor tubes for the input stage and solid-state output stage
- New power transformers are rewound to have lower standing flux, making them less sensitive to mains DC offset noise
Product Considerations
- The remote control is difficult to read in poor lighting conditions
- The VU meters are distracting to some
- A very heavy and sizeable unit
- It does not have a phono stage or digital inputs
- Transient response was below that of the best integrated amplifiers, as was its resolution
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Hegel H590: The Hegel H590 offers similar level of performance
Takeaway: The Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 800.2 is a powerful and well-built amplifier that delivers a smooth, musical, and detailed sound. Its exceptional power and unique nuvistor tube design make it a great choice for audiophiles who want a high-performing and visually impressive centerpiece for their system.
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.
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Rotel
X5 Series 2
8499
8499
/
3
Reviews
The Michi X5 Series 2 Integrated Amplifier combines 600 Watts of unwavering Class AB output power and an ESS SABRE 8-Channel Digital to Analog converter to deliver breathtaking precision and unparalleled control. Analog, Digital, XLR, aptX™ HD Bluetooth, PC-USB, Moving Magnet and Moving Coil Phono Stage sources are all supported.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality commensurate with the Michi name
- An almost absurd amount of power to drive even the most demanding loudspeakers (350Wpc into 8 ohms, 600Wpc into 4 ohms)
- A very quiet and nice-sounding onboard phono stage
- Excellent sound quality with both analog and digital sources
- The ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC delivers a precise, tighter, and more open soundstage
- Streaming is limited to Bluetooth ACC and aptX HD
Product Considerations
- Lacks built-in Wi-Fi for streaming
- No settings for adjusting capacitance or resistance on the phono input, values are preset
- The power amplifier section cannot be muted when using preamp outputs
- Some reviewers would like to see an HDMI ARC connection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bryston B135 SST 2, the X5 S2 has greater power, broader connectivity, and more luxurious industrial design
- Vs Hegel H400, X5 S2 has more power in the sub-bass range and a phono input, but the H400 has streaming via Ethernet
- Vs Yamaha A-S3200, X5 S2 has better control, especially in the bass
- Vs McIntosh MA5300, X5 S2 has more power
- Vs Hegel H600, the Michi X5 S2 delivers comparable high-end performance
Takeaway: The Michi X5 S2 is a powerful, all-in-one integrated amplifier that delivers excellent sound quality and build quality, making it a great choice for those wanting a high-end audio solution. Its massive power reserves ensure it can drive almost any loudspeaker with ease.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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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.
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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.
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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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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.
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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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Rega
Elicit MK5
3345
/
Released
2022
The all new Elicit MK5 stereo integrated amplifier is designed and built to the highest standard. Housed in our latest custom case to match the rest of the Rega range, the new MK5 builds on previous Rega designs by using our multi-award-winning Class A/B power amplifier circuit to deliver a powerful 105 W per channel into 8 Ω loads (127 W into 6 Ω). Our engineers have designed a new Rega DAC circuit offering digital connectivity and greater integration with a variety of other products. We have taken great care to incorporate a high-quality MM phono stage and the headphone output has been configured such that the speaker switching is performed by the output mute relay to avoid obstructing the signal path.
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Ground-breakingly different than its predecessor (Elicit-R) and the Elex R, integrating the Athos sound and signature
- Combines musicality with a real sense of propulsion
- Taut, punchy, clear sound with impressive clarity and detail
- Excellent built-in moving magnet phono stage, delivering enjoyable results across various music genres
- Internal DAC is of good quality, sitting comfortably beside the analogue line stages in quality, with lively and punchy character, strong detail levels, and dynamic contrasts
- Lacks USB input or Bluetooth connectivity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter than usual
- Can sound a little bright tonally, requiring careful speaker choice
- Volume control steps on the remote may be too large for precise adjustments
- Functional looking rather than stylish
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Roksan K2: The Elicit MK5 is a brawny amplifier with a full package for the audiophile journey
- Vs. Exposure 3510: The Elicit has a decent headphone option and the MM input, while the Exposure would suit if one already has a decent phono stage and a DAC in place
- Vs. Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x PA-10: While the Edge / PA-10 setup justifies its higher sticker, the Rega Elicit MK5 has a ballsier take on music
Takeaway: The Rega Elicit MK5 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a detailed, clear, and punchy sound, making music sound great and alive. With its integrated DAC and phono stage, it is ready to be the heart of any great listening setup.
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Our take on the brand
Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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