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
- Open and pure display
- Exceptional design
- Resolving power
- Fluidity, exceptional clarity, and silky resolution
- Refined natural ease
- Recessed switches are present on each amp's underbelly to select between the RCA and XLR inputs, and to engage "music sense"
Product Considerations
- Humble appearance
- Limited power
- Music was a bit flat, a bit dark, and a tad closed in when paired with the DeVORE FIDELITY O/96 speakers
- Image specificity was not as clearly defined as other amplification
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Leben CS600 or the Audia Flight FLS 10, the scale of various elements wasn't quite as clearly defined
- Compared to Riviera Labs gear, the Riviera Labs gear offers airier presentations
- Compared to the Line Magnetic LM-845iA Integrated Amplifier, the Line Magnetic LM-845iA Integrated Amplifier emphasizes timbral richness and gut punching power more
Takeaway: The Sonnet Kratos Mono Amplifiers offer a detailed and clear sound, capable of delivering a compelling musical experience. With a refined natural ease, these amplifiers draw the listener into music's finer moments.
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
Sonnet Kratos
reviews
[{"title":"Sonnet Digital Audio Kratos mono power amplifiers","link":"https://www.alpha-audio.net/review/sonnet-digital-audio-kratos-mono-power-amplifiers-music-unraveled","source":"alpha-audio.net","datePublished":""},{"title":"Review: A Sonnet Stack: Hermes Streamer, Pasithea DAC, ...","link":"https://twitteringmachines.com/review-a-sonnet-stack-hermes-streamer-pasithea-dac-kratos-mono-amplifiers","source":"twitteringmachines.com","datePublished":""}]
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
- Model: Kratos mono power amplifier
- Class: A/B, first 10 watts in class A
- Frequency Response: 10 - 230.000 Hz – 3dB
- Input Impedance: RCA 15 KOhm, XLR 60 KOhm
- Output Impedance: 0.10 Ohms
- Slew Rate: 100V / µSec
- Output Noise: 310µV RMS A weighting
- Distortion: 0.040% THD
- Gain: 22dB
- Power Supply: 115VAC 230VAC 50/60Hz
- Max Power Consumption: 400 Watt
- Dimensions: 290 x 250 x 70 mm
- Weight: 3.9KG
Description
Our Kratos mono block amplifier differs in many respects compared to normal transistor power amps. When looking at contemporary hybrid designs where tubes drive the power output stage, soundwise, the Kratos will have lots of similarities. Like them, Kratos has an airy and spacious sound but with the control and grip of a transistor amplifier.
Our Kratos mono block amplifier differs in many respects compared to normal transistor power amps. When looking at contemporary hybrid designs where tubes drive the power output stage, soundwise, the Kratos will have lots of similarities. Like them, Kratos has an airy and spacious sound but with the control and grip of a transistor amplifier. A disadvantage of these hybrids however is the problem of aging of the triodes.
To avoid this problem for our Kratos a front end with high voltage FET transistors was designed. As a result, the measurable properties are completely identical compared to triodes, but having the advantage that no aging occurs. A similarity is the high operating voltage to get these circuits working. The result is a high degree of linearity.
From this point on, the circuit drives a class A/B MOSFET output stage. Only a small amount of feedback is needed to get the correct gain while also improving the damping factor. A dedicated circuit for the high voltage is used, where the output stage is powered using a heavy 400 Watts power supply.
In addition to manual control of the amplifier, it can also be controlled via a remote cable to our Morpheus or Pasithea DAC. Another switchable option is the so-called "music sense" that checks the input for the presence of music and turns the power amplifier on. After half an hour of silence, the music sense circuit will p...
To avoid this problem for our Kratos a front end with high voltage FET transistors was designed. As a result, the measurable properties are completely identical compared to triodes, but having the advantage that no aging occurs. A similarity is the high operating voltage to get these circuits working. The result is a high degree of linearity.
From this point on, the circuit drives a class A/B MOSFET output stage. Only a small amount of feedback is needed to get the correct gain while also improving the damping factor. A dedicated circuit for the high voltage is used, where the output stage is powered using a heavy 400 Watts power supply.
In addition to manual control of the amplifier, it can also be controlled via a remote cable to our Morpheus or Pasithea DAC. Another switchable option is the so-called "music sense" that checks the input for the presence of music and turns the power amplifier on. After half an hour of silence, the music sense circuit will p...
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:
- Metrum products, including those under the Sonnet Digital Audio brand, are designed around the company's proprietary R2R ladder network DAC chips, known as Transient DAC modules, providing a unique approach to digital-to-analog conversion.
- The brand is known for its commitment to non-oversampling (NOS) designs, eschewing oversampling and filtering techniques to preserve the naturalness and musicality of audio signals.
- Metrum implements unique approaches to volume control that maintain signal integrity, utilizing techniques like changing the reference voltage of the DAC modules rather than traditional digital attenuation or analog potentiometers.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Metrum Onyx
- Positioning: A mid-range non-oversampling DAC designed for home sound systems.
- Description: Uses dual DACTWO chips per channel with parallel FPGA-driven R2R ladder networks for high linearity and clear channel separation. Compared to pricier models like the Pavane and Adagio, it offers solid performance for everyday listening at a moderate budget and suits setups where effective detail and balance are key.
Sonnet Morpheus MK-II
- Positioning: A versatile digital preamplifier DAC suited for integration with sensitive tube designs.
- Description: Adds a -10dB attenuator feature that allows output voltage adjustments, making it flexible for both DAC and preamp usage. Compared to the simpler Onyx and the more feature-rich flagship models, it targets buyers needing adaptable output control for specialized use cases.
Metrum Pavane
- Positioning: A flagship non-oversampling DAC aimed at delivering high-end, refined audio performance.
- Description: Incorporates advanced DAC 2 modules and proprietary forward correction techniques to produce a rich and natural sound with enhanced spatial cues. Compared to the mid-range Onyx and the integrated Adagio, it delivers top-tier sonic detail.
Metrum Adagio
- Positioning: A flagship DAC with integrated volume control that serves as a digital preamplifier for active systems.
- Description: Features dedicated DAC boards with larger, higher voltage transformers and separate toroidal power supplies to maintain low noise and precise volume regulation. In comparison to the Pavane and Onyx, it offers more functionality and controlled performance for users requiring integrated preamp capabilities.
Sonnet Pasithea
- Positioning: A premium DAC and preamplifier built with eight SDA-3 DAC modules for enhanced performance and versatility.
- Description: Delivers improved linearity, lower distortion, and a noise floor markedly lower than the Morpheus by using multiple DAC modules and flexible attenuation options. Compared to all other products in the lineup, it provides superior build quality and maximum sonic resolution in complex and demanding systems.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used For Sale
11
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
195
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
13
Founding Year
2012
Our take on the brand
Metrum Acoustics is known for its unique approach to DAC design, using R2R non-oversampling technology that wasn't common when they introduced it, with their flagship Pavane DAC using four DAC ONE modules per channel. Their DACs are particularly suited for tube lovers, with models like the Morpheus MK-II featuring a -10dB attenuator specifically designed to work with sensitive tube setups.
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
Metrum
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Chord Electronics
Ultima
15375
15375
/
8
Reviews
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
.svg)
Product Strengths
- Offers a remarkably smooth, unforced, and natural presentation with a touch of warmth
- Excels in detail retrieval and textured presentation of instruments and vocals, making the music feel alive
- Presents a wide and holographic soundstage, especially when paired with speakers that are already strong in this area
- Demonstrates agility, precision, and clarity, combined with a naturalness that eluded earlier generations of Chord amplifiers
- Scales dynamically and has the ability to punch hard when required
Product Considerations
- Has a minimalist design with just four line-level inputs, lacking features like phono stages, tone controls, headphone outputs, or DAC modules
- Some may find its sonic signature prioritizes articulation over qualities such as richness and authority, potentially sounding thin if partnered poorly
- Balance control has no center indent or marked position
- The polychromatic lighting may be an issue for the color-blind
- Remote operation can be affected by direct sunlight
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3, the Chord Ultima Integrated delivers undeniably elevated sound in all respects, with greater dimensionality and smoother vocals
- Vs Bryston 7B 3 monoblocks, the Chord Ultima Integrated offers a weightier and more thunderous delivery, especially in the midrange and vocals, with more inner warmth in tone
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Chord Ultima Integrated provides a more energetic and fun listening experience, with Thor-like bass impact and overall superior dynamics
- Vs Accuphase E-270, the Chord Ultima Integrated is warmer, rounder, more powerful, and refined, with a more fluid and emotionally engaging performance
Takeaway: The Chord Ultima Integrated is a unique and well-built amplifier that combines a visually pleasing design with a captivating sound, full of detail and dynamic precision. It brings music to life with an engaging and immersive experience, making it a worthy addition to any audiophile's setup.
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
AGD
Duet
11500
11500
/
7
Reviews
The AGD DUET Monoblock Amplifier, is the newest addition to our state of the art Hi-End Power Amplifiers family. The AGD DUET is our first compact Monoblock Amplifier utilizing 100% Gallium Nitride Power MOSFET design for both the output power stage and the power supply.
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Compact size, lightweight, and runs cool compared to traditional high-end amplifiers
- Exceptionally quiet operation, with reviewers noting a complete absence of hum or buzz
- Delivers a clean, crisp, and neutral sound signature without added coloration
- Upgradeable design, allowing users to update the amplifier with new GaN modules as technology evolves
- Produces a Single Ended Triode-like midrange and top end
Product Considerations
- The polished finish is a fingerprint magnet, requiring the use of gloves for handling
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AGD Audion MKIII: The Duets offer a cleaner and more refined sound with improved bass and greater immediacy and snap compared to the Audion MKIII
- Vs Daniel Hertz Maria: The AGD Duets seem to have a little more inner resolution
- Vs Pass Labs X250.8: The AGD Duets performed to a higher level
- Vs Peachtree GaN 1/VTV GaN amps: AGD amps seem to be on another level in regards to design, and the sound is more refined and beautiful
- Vs Aavik U-150, Luxman 595, Yamaha A-S 3200, Axxess Forte 1, Line Magnetic 219ia: The AGD Duets performed to a higher level
Takeaway: The AGD Duet amplifiers offer a blend of cutting-edge technology, exceptional sound quality, and user-friendly design. They are a great option for those seeking a high-end audio experience in a compact and energy-efficient package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Product Page
Product Page
ASR
Emitter II
18750
18750
/
6
Reviews
The Emitter II models are considered by real music connoisseurs and uncompromising audiophiles to be the ultimate in amplifier construction. Almost purely by hearsay, a music-addicted and ever-growing fan base has developed worldwide, which has realized its dream of a concert hall in its own home.
Powered by two separate power supplies, the most sophisticated loudspeakers and elaborately constructed dynamic converters are driven to peak sound performance. With an Emitter II Basic, music unfolds in the full dynamic range. From the breath to the slightest rustle on the stage to the power of the full orchestra, the Emitter II Basic reproduces all tones neutrally, powerfully, energetically, with high resolution and unadulterated in the listening room.
Especially at peak levels at concert volume, the playback and spatial imaging remain absolutely stable. Quiet listeners also rave about the noticeable and very pleasant energy in the sound, which makes the music a relaxing and pleasant experience even at low levels.
ASR Audio's Emitter II Exclusive amplifier creates a vast, tube-like soundstage and three-dimensional presentation without tube colorations, while maintaining exceptional transparency and a low noise floor. The brand stands out for its emphasis on measurements and scientific analysis in audio equipment evaluation, often sparking debates between measurement-focused and subjective listening-focused audiophiles.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Known for combining the musicality of tube amplifiers with the precision and power of solid-state amplifiers.
- It provides a transparent sound with steel control, without the electronic 'shine' associated with transistor amplifiers.
- Exceptional bass performance, described as deep, explosive, and completely controlled.
- Homogeneous frequency range, offering a very high degree of transparency and control.
- Offers an ability to resolve even the finest musically significant details.
Product Considerations
- Requires a substantial amount of space due to its multi-component design.
- The sound offered might be 'too beautiful' for some listeners, as it is not 'brutal' or 'terse' enough.
- Requires care in using its switches to avoid shutdowns.
- Some reviewers note it was 'dark sounding' on the highs, though it did not lack information.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Quad ESL loudspeakers, it surpasses the musicality and clarity achieved with many tube amps, rivaling even high-end options like Lamm Industries ML2.2 and Miyajima Laboratory 2010.
- The ASR has better bass and is more transparent than MBL, however, it lacks the grace that MBL offers.
- Compared to Rogue 180W monoblocks, the ASR Emitter II delivers better bass.
- The ASR Emitter II has slightly better bass control than Manley Neoclassic 500, but the Neoclassic 500 has a more marvelous style of fiddling.
- Compared to Edge and Audio Research, the ASR is darker sounding.
Takeaway: The ASR Emitter II Exclusive offers a combination of tube-like warmth and solid-state precision, making the listening experience a very involving one. It provides exceptional control and detail across the entire frequency range, making it a great choice for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ASR Audio's Emitter II Exclusive amplifier creates a vast, tube-like soundstage and three-dimensional presentation without tube colorations, while maintaining exceptional transparency and a low noise floor. The brand stands out for its emphasis on measurements and scientific analysis in audio equipment evaluation, often sparking debates between measurement-focused and subjective listening-focused audiophiles.
Product Page
Product Page
Audio Research
Reference 80S
18500
18500
/
6
Reviews
Audio Research is a hifi brand that has stayed committed to tube technology while many competitors moved to solid-state designs. The brand is known for its use of KT150 power beam tetrodes and hybrid power supply designs that blend tube amplification with solid-state regulation.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Delivers power while handling subtlety and fine detail with aplomb
- Presents an engaging and naturally organic soundstage
- Offers switchable Ultralinear and Triode tube configurations
- Hand-wired, hand-soldered, and hand-assembled
- The top end is silky, resolved, and decent, resulting in no listening fatigue
Product Considerations
- The bass is not that punchy as with the best high-end amplifiers
- The amplifier can be demanding towards the acoustics of the room due to its heavy-on-bottom balance
- Limited power handling that does not allow for playing too loud
- The 80S sounds more homogenous, although the listening is rewarding and entertaining
- Ensure existing speakers will work with the Reference 80S to satisfaction before purchase
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Simaudio Moon 860A v2 power amplifier, the voice of Hana was warmer and velvetier through the Audio Research—a bit more human for my ears—although the sound was slightly less transparent and less controlled
Takeaway: The Audio Research Reference 80S is a tube power amplifier that delivers precision and subtlety. If high-end audio is desired and a lot of power is not necessary, the Reference 80S could be a good fit for a listening space.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio Research is a hifi brand that has stayed committed to tube technology while many competitors moved to solid-state designs. The brand is known for its use of KT150 power beam tetrodes and hybrid power supply designs that blend tube amplification with solid-state regulation.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Primare
A35.8
5247
/
Released
2022
The A35.8 is Primare's most powerful and flexible multi-channel amplifier, designed to serve the needs of virtually any high-performance multi-channel system through its ability for each pair of channels to be bridged to mono for an incredible level of power delivery and system building options, including 1500 watts of total output in a fully bridged bi-amped stereo configuration.
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The A35.8 provides eight channels of 'unimpeachable Class D power in a fairly compact and very flexible package'
- Flexible configuration options for power output to speakers are available, such as bi-amping and bridging
- Each stereo pair can be bridged separately to make four times 375 watts (8 Ohms) from the eight times 150 watts
- Fault-free sound quality
- High quality fit and finish
- The A35.8 offers flexible connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The 20-amp power inlet is the seldom-seen variety with three horizontal blades
- The speaker output posts are spaced too widely for dual-banana plugs
- Cabling can be tricky
- A high current power cord is needed
- Lower gain is present, though this doesn't necessarily need to be an issue
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M28, the A35.8 gets you one more channel and more versatility for a 10% price increase
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Benchmark presented a more neutral tonal balance and undistorted soundstage
- Vs NAD C 298 stereo amplifiers, the Primare seemed slightly more forward, often conveying an appealing liveliness
Takeaway: The A35.8 power amplifier is a flexible and versatile product worth considering for anyone seeking a high-quality multi-channel setup. Its ability to bridge channels offers many ways to configure your speaker system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Product Page
Product Page
.png){kind=small}
EAR Yoshino
EAR 890
6351
/
Released
Push-pull power amplifier using eight KT90 output valves (four per channel). 70 Watts per channel stereo (bridgeable to 140 watts mono) into 4, 8, or 16 ohms. Self-biasing design with Balanced or unbalanced input.
EAR Yoshino is a British hifi brand where each product is handmade from start to finish by a single engineer, with their amplifiers featuring a unique balanced bridge mode output stage design that assigns separate windings to each electrode on the output transformer. Their tube-based equipment, inspired by founder Tim de Paravicini's professional recording studio experience, is used by renowned artists like Pink Floyd and Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The EAR 890 produces 70Wpc in stereo, and can be bridged to 140W in monoblock
- Neutral sound that gets out of the way and lets the user enjoy the music
- Complex and dense music textures are handled with ease, and dynamically demanding passages are sailed through
- Articulate midrange
- Detailed and realistic bass
Product Considerations
- Removing/installing tube cages is difficult and time-consuming
- The loudspeaker binding posts are positioned too close to the output transformers, making it hard to tighten them properly
- Some assembly work appeared amateurish, specifically the use of silicone in various locations, such as fastening chassis wires
- The amplifier can operate quite hot
- May not have as much bass impact compared to solid state amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The EAR 890 monoblocks achieve SET-like definition along with the authority and swagger necessary for most full-size speaker systems, when compared to Cary Audio 300B SET amps
- The EAR 890 is as textured as the top LAMM designs, but with noticeably better neutrality and more power
- The EAR 890 surpassed the deHavilland KE50As with a more articulate midrange, producing more color and separation in the microtones of instruments
Takeaway: The EAR 890 is easy to set up and sounds good with very little tweaking, making it easy to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music. It's a good choice for people who want a tube amp that is both musical and powerful for their home listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EAR Yoshino is a British hifi brand where each product is handmade from start to finish by a single engineer, with their amplifiers featuring a unique balanced bridge mode output stage design that assigns separate windings to each electrode on the output transformer. Their tube-based equipment, inspired by founder Tim de Paravicini's professional recording studio experience, is used by renowned artists like Pink Floyd and Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs.
Product Page
Product Page
Parasound
Halo A51
5749
/
Released
The Parasound A51 is a high-powered five-channel amplifier designed to bring your home theater system to life. Delivering 250 watts per channel at 8 ohms, the A51 ensures powerful, clean, and dynamic sound across all five channels. This amplifier is THX Ultra2 certified, providing exceptional performance for even the most demanding speaker systems.
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers amazing quality of sound and detail
- Bulletproof amplification
- Has a rhythmically soulful sound with a tremendously rich and natural midrange
- The A51's bass is well-defined, extremely textured, and robust
- With 250 watts on tap, the Parasound A51 will power virtually anything
Product Considerations
- Due to its class A/AB design, the A51 does get a bit warm and should be installed in a properly ventilated space and/or rack
- The A51 is large and heavy, and is best moved and/or positioned by two people
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Rotel, the Rotel makes the M&K Sound system slightly bright with a bit of sibilance, while the Parasound is more neutral
- Compared to Acurus A250, the Parasound had tighter bass, which is probably attributed to a better damping factor
Takeaway: The Parasound Halo A51 is a high-performance amplifier with great sound quality, detail, and build quality, making it an excellent choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. Its ability to deliver power and control to speakers makes it a valuable addition to any high-end audio system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Product Page
Product Page
AGD
Tempo di GaN
5500
/
Released
2021
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- GaN technology allows for efficient power usage, with 94% of energy being turned into sound
- Compact size challenges the notion that high-quality amps need to be large
- Design and packaging create pride of ownership
- It can be run in bridged mode to deliver 400 watts into one channel
- Stability and ability to handle complex impedance loads
Product Considerations
- The slight sonic signature may not be for everyone
- If truly outrageous amounts of power are needed to drive speakers, a second AGD Tempo amp might be needed to run in a bridged configuration
- High-frequency noise was discovered when XLR cables were not connected between them
- Power cords can make a large difference, the included power cord doesn't flatter the amp
- Some traditionalists may find it hard to accept that it's a Class-D amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Peachtree Audio GaN400, the AGD Tempo reports to have better overall specifications
- Compared to Parasound Halo A21+, the AGD Tempo is simply superior
- Compared to Bricasti M30 monoblock amplifiers, the level of which the most subtle detail exists approaches reference Bricasti M30 monoblock amplifiers
Takeaway: The AGD Productions Tempo is a cutting-edge amplifier that offers a new take on audiophile amplification and rivals more expensive amplifiers. It can drive speakers easily while being energy efficient.
Video review
Our take on the brand
AGD Productions uses GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology in their amplifiers, which are housed in glass tubes reminiscent of classic vacuum tubes, delivering high power from a compact size with near-perfect square waves. The amplifiers are designed to be upgradeable as technology advances, with GaN modules that can be replaced, while handling complex impedance loads similar to high-end Class-A or SET tube amps.
Product Page
Product Page
Parasound
JCM250
6000
/
Released
2024
The Halo JCM250 is an uncompromising mono power amplifier that sets new standards in power and fidelity. With 250 watts at 8 Ω up to 800 watts at 2 Ω, it delivers exceptional audio performance. The balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs ensure compatibility with various audio sources. Its dual-mono design with two transformers provides exceptional channel separation and sonic accuracy. The direct-coupled design, without capacitors in the signal path, preserves signal integrity and enhances transparency.
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive parts quality uses FR408 circuit boards and an R-Core transformer to suppress power line noise
- The amplifier has a harmonic richness and bloom to the sound that's seductive
- Bass was tight, controlled, very extended with pitch definition and detailed
- The amplifier's ability to resolve low level spatial cues is amazing—sound stage layering, image specificity, size and shape are outstanding
- Excellent build quality includes a heavy duty chassis and heat sinks
Product Considerations
- It is only available in black
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The JCM250s give a performance very similar to Cambridge Audio JC1 Plus
- The JCM250 is a bit warmer than the Cambridge Audio Edge M, and includes controls to set bias and gain
- With the JCM250 monoblocks having a separate power supply for each channel, it has lower noise compared to the Cambridge Audio JC5
Takeaway: The JCM250 is a high-quality amplifier that uses the best components. It offers great versatility, fitting well with any preamp and speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Product Page
Product Page
Questions? Ask the brand's dealers.
All Dealers
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
