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
- The Marantz PM7000N is a 'just-add-speakers' streaming system with an entertaining performance and class-leading clarity
- It provides big, spacious and insightful sound
- It integrates a DAC, network module, and access to various music streaming services via the HEOS platform
- Many reviewers point out its versatility, being an all-in-one solution
- It has a nice sparkly treble and a deep rounded mid-bass
Product Considerations
- The HEOS app is considered robust and easy to use, but some find it not as good as BluOS or Naim streaming apps, some point out that it is not integrated with Qobuz
- The front-panel navigation buttons are described as plasticky
- Some find the on-unit display screen small, but this is not always seen as a negative
- It lacks a USB-B input, so it cannot be used as a USB DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The PM7000N offers a more dynamic mid-bass and is tonally more even than the Cyrus 1 Cast, but the Cyrus 1 Cast is more dynamic in the bass department
- The PM7000N trumps the Bluesound Powernode 2i with greater clarity and expression
Takeaway: The Marantz PM7000N offers a practical way to enjoy a wide variety of music sources with great sound and comprehensive features. Its all-in-one design simplifies a home audio system, and it could be a good choice for audiophiles who appreciate functionality and streaming.
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
PM7000N
reviews
[{"title":"Marantz PM7000N Integrated Amplifier","link":"https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/marantz-pm7000n-integrated-amplifier","source":"The Absolute Sound","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/marantz-pm7000n","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"A super-integrated for the rest of us: Marantz’s PM7000N","link":"https://darko.audio/2020/04/a-super-integrated-for-the-rest-of-us-marantzs-pm7000n","source":"Darko Audio","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N Integrated Amplifier Reviewed","link":"https://hometheaterreview.com/marantz-pm7000n-integrated-amplifier-reviewed","source":"Home Theater Review","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N Review: All-in-one Amplifier For Discerning Ears","link":"https://www.lbtechreviews.com/test/hi-fi/marantz-pm7000n","source":"LB Tech Reviews","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Review: Marantz PM7000N","link":"https://blog.son-video.com/en/2020/01/marantz-pm7000n-stereo-amplifier-review","source":"Son-Vidéo","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N Review","link":"https://timesaudio.in/marantz-pm7000n-review/?srsltid=AfmBOooKE-EcfWElTnI8s_xi14CQnJr8BNuXyeKXpvC9AYXEO1lMgDQG","source":"Times Audio","datePublished":""},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N : Chipping Away at Audiophile HiFi","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tO31iN7JDc","source":"13th Note HiFi Reviews","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N - The Best Amplifier #marantz","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzHBoXGIVws","source":"Aleg Reviews","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Marantz PM7000N review unboxing Heos","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T_rrlA3dcXc","source":"Francisco Ortiz","datePublished":"2021"}]
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
- Power Output (8/4 Ohm RMS): 60W/80W
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz-100 kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.02%
- Damping Factor: 100<
- Input Sensitivity MM: 2 mV/47 kOhm
- Signal to Noise Ratio High Level: 115dB(2V input)
- Signal to Noise Ratio MM: 87 dB
- Power Consumption: 220W
- Standby Consumption: 0.3W
- Dimensions (WxDxH): 440 x 379 x 125 mm
- Weight: 10.3 kg
Description
Engineered and extensively tuned by a team drawing on decades of Hi-Fi expertise, the PM7000N provides exceptional performance for your audio collection. Whether digital or analog, enjoy the most musical sound from any source.
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:
- Marantz distinguishes itself through its commitment to producing slim AV receiver designs that offer essential home theater functionalities at an affordable price, catering to budget-conscious consumers seeking practicality and minimalism.
- The brand stands out for its emphasis on expandability and upgradability, equipping their entry-level models with preamp outputs for all channels, allowing consumers to enhance their systems with external power amplifiers.
- Marantz products feature the HEOS streaming platform, allowing seamless integration into multi-room audio systems, while also supporting popular streaming platforms and wireless technologies.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Marantz PM Model
- Positioning: The PM series is positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option in the Marantz lineup, offering integrated amplifiers with a focus on sound quality and versatility.
- Description: The PM7000N stands out with its all-in-one design, integrating a DAC, network streaming, and phono input, making it ideal for users seeking simplicity and high-quality sound in a compact form. Compared to higher-end models like the Model 30, the PM7000N offers a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features.
Marantz Link Series
- Positioning: The Link series, particularly the Link 10n, is positioned as a high-end network audio player within Marantz's lineup, designed for audiophiles seeking top-tier digital streaming performance.
- Description: The Link 10n features Marantz's proprietary HDAM modules and a robust build. While it offers exceptional streaming quality compared to the PM series, its premium price point and advanced features cater to those with a higher budget and a focus on digital music sources.
Marantz Model 10/30/40n/50
- Positioning: The Model 30 and 40n are part of Marantz's premium integrated amplifier series, offering advanced features and superior sound quality for discerning audiophiles.
- Description: The Model 40n is notable for its streaming capabilities and high-resolution audio support, making it a versatile choice for modern audio setups. Compared to the PM series, the Model 40n provides enhanced connectivity and sound refinement.
Marantz Model M4
- Positioning: The Model M4 is positioned as a high-performance multi-room streaming amplifier, designed for whole-home audio distribution.
- Description: The Model M4 excels with its four-zone audio distribution and high power output. Unlike the PM and Link series, the M4 focuses on multi-room capabilities and system integration.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
63
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
29
Founding Year
1953
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
.
Brand Page
Used
Marantz
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Marantz
Model 40n
2499
2499
/
20
Reviews
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
.svg)
Our summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and aesthetics, with a metal casing and elegant fascia made to a high standard
- A clear, powerful, and spacious sound, with a presentation that is appealing right from the beginning
- Plenty of power on tap, specified at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- Fantastic connectivity, with three pairs of line-level inputs, an MM phono stage, and outputs for a recorder and subwoofer
- Capable network DAC/streamer with digital controls
Product Considerations
- The dimpled effect flanking the extruded front panel gives the unit a further distinctive look, but the finish feels like plastic upon closer inspection
- The HEOS app isn't bespoke to the 40n, many of the product's set-up options can only be accessed through the unit using the included remote control
- Bluetooth pairing took longer than expected, and there were occasions when the app stopped being able to see or display the music server when switching inputs
- The lettering on the remote control is impossible to read in dim light, and the buttons are too similar in size, resulting in fumbling in the dark
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz Model 40n is a different proposition compared to the Marantz PM7000N, Marantz is keen to reposition itself as a luxury hifi brand and that intent is clear in the 40n's gorgeous build and aesthetics
- Rival systems such as the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Naim Uniti Atom do a better job of engrossing listeners in the music, being more insightful, musically engaging, and dynamically exciting by degrees
- Is super-sexy and distinctive styling, a higher level of fit and finish, a much better remote, and access to Sound United's HEOS streaming/multiroom audio platform wanted—or more coaxial and optical digital inputs, Dirac Live room-correction capabilities, more power, a more efficient topology, and access to Lenbrook's BluOS streaming/multiroom audio platform
- At first glance it's hard to distinguish the Model 40n from its slightly costlier Marantz Model 30 sibling
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 40n is a stylish and feature-packed streaming amplifier that offers a musical and inviting performance. With its versatile connectivity options and impressive sound quality, the Model 40n is a great choice for modern, lifestyle hifi systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Product Page
Product Page
Marantz
MODEL 60n
1500
1500
/
9
Reviews
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a neutral and effortless sound, performing admirably with various speakers
- Features HEOS Built-in for high-resolution streaming from various platforms, including Spotify, Tidal, and Amazon Music HD
- Uses Marantz's proprietary HDAM circuitry for lower distortion and a more dynamic soundstage
- Combines elegance with functionality, featuring a sturdy steel chassis, top, and a well-designed remote
- Offers extensive connectivity, including HDMI ARC, digital inputs, analog inputs with MM phono stage, and USB-A
Product Considerations
- The subwoofer crossover is fixed at 150Hz, which may not be ideal for all users
- When pushed to high volumes, the sound can become a little aggressive with more challenging speakers
- The HEOS app is limited by the 60N's lack of features compared to other Marantz models
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Marantz M1: The 60N sounds better overall due to superior components and HDAM circuitry
- Vs Marantz Model 40N: The 40N offers more sophisticated components, a better chassis, and more dynamic sound, but the 60N is a great value
- Vs Marantz Stereo 70S: The 70S is less expensive and has more power, but focuses more on home theater applications
- Vs Cambridge Audio CX-N100: The CX-N100 has slightly better channel separation, which makes the soundstage that more defined and helps separate instruments and vocalists
- Vs Marantz PM7000N (predecessor): The Model 60n offers enhanced features, newer technologies, greater agility, a finely tuned DAC preamp circuit, and HDMI
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 60N is a versatile amplifier that blends high-quality sound with modern connectivity, making it ideal for both analog and digital music lovers. It offers a well-rounded feature set and great value, especially for those seeking a centerpiece for a comprehensive audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Product Page
Product Page
Marantz
Model 50
1800
1800
/
7
Reviews
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Material, industrial design with gold accents exhibits quality and prestige
- High-quality moving magnet phono preamp
- HDAM circuitry provides a warm and open sound
- Warm sound quality with smooth vocals
- Well-controlled low end helps to neutralize the top end
Product Considerations
- Lacks digital inputs, HDMI, and a built-in DAC, which may not meet the needs of audiophiles seeking versatility
- Sits in a gray area between all-in-one and all-separate systems, potentially making it a harder sell
- Sound sacrifices some clarity and detail, especially in the treble and soundstage separation
- Plugging in headphones does not mute the speaker outputs
- Quick Start Guides are anemic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Model 50 sounds clearer and more concise and has more clarity and more expression in the top end, compared to Marantz Model 40n
- For a smoother, warmer sound with incredible voice reproduction, choose Marantz, while Musical Fidelity offers a more neutral, balanced, transparent, and detailed sound
- Marantz has a big, weighty sound, while Rega is lean and punchy, and Marantz has better communication and soundstage scope, making vocals sound beautiful and creamy, with better imaging, however, Rega excels in resolution and detail revelation
- Marantz creates beautiful renditions for listening to music day and night, compared to Denon PMA-1700NE
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 50 is a well-designed, analog integrated amplifier with a warm and smooth sound, making it great for those who appreciate a traditional listening experience. Its exceptional bass and smooth vocals make it an appealing option for audiophiles seeking a classic sound signature with modern build quality.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
iDSD Diablo 2
1299
1299
/
25
Reviews
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Marantz
Model M1
1000
/
Released
2024
MODEL M1 is a wireless streaming amplifier engineered with performance and versatility in mind. Enjoy your favorite music or TV shows with seamless connectivity from one elegant, compact device.
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size and sleek design, featuring a unique woven-mesh top panel
- Delivers a solid punch with a finely resolved soundstage
- Excellent graphical setup assistance is available via the HEOS app
- Capable of driving most speakers, offering an organic warmth that conveys a dreamy atmosphere
- A fully digital switching amplifier delivers 100W per channel at 8 ohms, making it suitable for a wide range of speakers
Product Considerations
- The HEOS app can be buggy at times, exhibiting limited functionality and curious quirks
- Sound adjustment via the HEOS app is basic, only offering treble and bass adjustments without a fully parametric equalizer
- No remote control is included, as it relies entirely on smartphone control via the HEOS app
- Lacks a phono stage, which may disappoint vinyl fans
- Touch-sensitive front-panel controls have loud sound effects that can only be turned on or off, not attenuated
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Bluesound Powernode, the switch to BluOS gives more baked-in streaming-service support and less-glitchy performance, but no local phone-library support natively
- Compared to the WiiM Amp, the Marantz is more focused and sounds both wider and more organized, and it also has significantly more power, allowing it to drive demanding speakers effectively
- Compared to the Marantz Stereo 70s, the Stereo 70s offers more connectivity and functionality for the same price
- Compared to the Arcam Radia A25, the Marantz Model M1 proved to be somewhat more robust in the low frequencies
Takeaway: The Marantz Model M1 is a compact and stylish streaming amplifier that delivers a refined and warm sound. Its versatility and ease of use make it a good option for those already invested in the HEOS ecosystem or who primarily use AirPlay.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Marantz is a hifi brand known for its proprietary HDAM technology, which replaces traditional op-amps in their amplifiers for better sound quality. Their products include slim-design AVRs that fit better under TVs, and their flagship Model 10 Reference Integrated Amplifier delivers exceptional power with 250 watts into 8 ohms through its dual-mono symmetrical amplifier topology.
Product Page
Product Page
Chord Electronics
Mojo 2
650
/
Released
2022
The British designed and built Mojo 2 is the most advanced portable DAC and headphone amplifier in the world today. Winner of Best DAC (£300-£500) in the What Hi-Fi? Awards 2022, the Mojo 2 is entirely engineered around a powerful, custom-coded FPGA processor and benefits from several unique technologies.
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved battery management offering faster charging rates and better efficiency than its predecessor
- Features a new USB-C data input for greater flexibility alongside other inputs
- Offers the world's first lossless DSP for tone adjustments without degrading sound quality, providing customization options
- Excellent resolution and dynamics with a large soundstage and extreme detail
Product Considerations
- The Mojo 2 can get warm when in a pocket for a period of time
- Complicated menu navigation with color-coded buttons that may require the manual
- Still uses Micro-USB for charging, which some find outdated
Takeaway: The Chord Mojo 2 is an exceptional DAC/headphone amplifier for those seeking high-resolution audio and customized sound in a portable format that is easy to move. Its sonic accuracy, detailed soundstage, and improved features provide a versatile and enjoyable listening experience, making it a worthwhile consideration for audio enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Chord Electronics designs and manufactures all their products in Great Britain, setting themselves apart by using proprietary FPGA technology instead of off-the-shelf DAC chips found in most competitors' products. Their DACs and portable audio devices, featuring distinctive color-changing buttons and portholes, deliver studio-grade performance through unique technologies like the Watts Transient Aligned filter, which provides more natural and detailed sound reproduction.
Product Page
Product Page
iFi
xDSD Gryphon
599
/
Released
2021
On the desk or in your pocket, be ready for anything. Packed with award-winning features and functionality, the xDSD Gryphon takes the best tech from our desktop DACs to create a portable DAC/Amp that can rise to any challenge.
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity with both wireless (Bluetooth 5.1 with various codecs) and wired options (USB, S/PDIF, analog inputs) makes it suitable for various setups—from desktop to portable usage
- Eloquent, informative, and entertaining sound quality, able to produce clear, non-artificial sound across different headphones
- Features such as XBass II and XSpace provide additional sound shaping options for the user to customize the sound to their liking
- The aluminum build provides a robust and premium feel, with a design that's described as sleek and comfortable to handle
Product Considerations
- The user interface is not very intuitive
- Decent headphones are needed to reveal its quality
- The OLED screen can be difficult to read
- Battery life is around six to eight hours
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the hip-dac2, the Gryphon offers better sound quality, more features, and flexibility
- Compared to the iFi GO bar, the Gryphon is bigger and has a built-in battery, and the GO bar is much smaller and draws power from the source device
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo, the Diablo has more power for very demanding headphones, Gryphon has more functions
- Compared to the Zen DAC, the xDSD Gryphon has a more sophisticated and detailed sound
Takeaway: The iFi xDSD Gryphon is a portable and versatile device delivering high-quality sound with extensive features that cater to audiophiles. Its ability to improve sound quality from various sources and its robust build make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers on the go.
Video review
Our take on the brand
iFi Audio specializes in portable hifi audio players, offering compact DACs and headphone amplifiers for audiophiles seeking quality sound on the go. The brand also provides affordable audiophile gear, making quality hifi audio accessible to more people.
Product Page
Product Page
Bluesound
Powernode
949
/
Released
2021
The Bluesound POWERNODE is the HiFi amp reinvented for the streaming age, combining audiophile-grade componentry and multi-room music capabilities to create an intuitive "just add speakers" hi-res sound system for modern music lovers.
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Punchy and musical performer
- BluOS is a treat to operate
- Convenient design as a source and amplifier in one, only needing speakers to complete the system
- Engagingly musical performer—dynamically fluid and punchy, with plenty of energy
- More neutral sounding now, making gains in clarity and insight across the frequency range
- Connectivity options are through 3.5mm headphone-type connectors, shared with mini-TosLink connections
Product Considerations
- Tough competition from other streaming amplifiers
- No way to send data out to an external DAC
- The Powernode was occasionally hard on transients and dynamic bursts
- There is no included remote
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz has a wider-scale, roomier soundstage and greater subtlety
Takeaway: The Bluesound Powernode is a superb streaming amplifier that is better than ever, offering excellent sonic talent and a well-rounded feature set. It provides a convenient and high-quality music experience for anyone looking to simplify their home audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bluesound is one of the best entry-level amps if you're looking to dip your toes into hifi. Reviewers love it for what it offers at the price—solid dynamics and tight bass, which is exactly what you expect from good Class D. It’s the go-to pick for people new to hifi since it gives you about 75% of the high-end experience without needing a ton of power. It’s perfect for smaller setups where you want good sound without going all-in on expensive gear.
Product Page
Product Page
.png){kind=logo}
aune
S17 Pro
699
/
Released
2023
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Fully balanced technology, with balanced inputs and outputs.
- Delivers powerful amplification, with up to 7.5 watts of power, capable of driving a wide range of headphones, including hard-to-drive models.
- Features a linear power supply with a large transformer and capacitor bank, providing a stable and powerful power source.
- Provides two current modes (50mA and 100mA) to tailor the sound tonality, allowing users to choose between a more forward/analytical sound and a warmer/fuller sound.
- Employs an R2R network for volume control, ensuring channel balance even at low volumes.
Product Considerations
- Runs quite hot due to its Class A amplification, requiring adequate ventilation, with chassis temperatures potentially reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, and the unit may switch from 100mA to 50mA mode if it overheats.
- High power output might not be ideal for very sensitive IEMs, potentially limiting volume control flexibility.
- The preamplifier output is always active, meaning it doesn't mute when headphones are plugged in, requiring caution to prevent damage.
- The LCD display cannot be dimmed or switched off, and the red color of the 100mA mode may appear washed out.
- Some report volume slots are not regular or have large jumps, and/or that the remote control can be buggy.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Topping A90 Discrete: The S17 has a richer sound, wider soundstage, and easier dynamics, especially in 100mA mode, placing it in a higher tier.
- Vs. Topping A90D: The S17 Pro is capable of even stronger dynamic swings, with a slightly cleaner and less cluttered soundstage.
- Vs. Violectric V222: The Aune S17 Pro is more 'tubey' and warmer sounding than the V222.
- Vs. HIFIMAN EF600: The Aune S17 has better volume control, higher dynamic range, better driving power, and better resolution.
Takeaway: The Aune S17 Pro is a powerful and versatile headphone amplifier that delivers rich, detailed sound, allowing listeners to experience music in new ways. With its balanced design and flexible current modes, it can enhance a wide range of headphones and audio setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Product Page
Product Page
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
