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
- Class-leading clarity and insight, a noticeable upgrade from previous models, makes the music feel like it's coming from inside the room
- Beautifully designed with clean lines and a responsive 5" color TFT panel
- Offers compatibility with every music source including high-res streaming, Bluetooth, and vinyl
- Well-built from sturdy, brushed and anodized aluminum, it has a satisfyingly smooth volume wheel action
- Well-designed, stable, intuitive, and simple to use app
- Non-standard speaker connectors requiring banana plugs
- Naim hangs their hats on UPnP as a method of getting networked music into their systems, which can be cryptic in their setup and less than stellar in performance
Product Considerations
- Does not come with an internal phono stage, requiring the end user to supply their own
- Felt just a tad lacking with low-end thump
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Atom has better clarity and insight, compared to the Naim Uniti Qute 2
- Musical delivery is a double shot espresso to the Peachtree nova300's long black or the AURALiC Polaris' ristretto
- The difference between the Atom's DAC and the Chord Qutest was only modest when played over the Falcon's
Takeaway: The Naim Uniti Atom is a beautifully designed, versatile all-in-one system that provides a wealth of connectivity options and high-quality audio. It simplifies the audio experience, making it a great centerpiece for a modern music system.
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
Uniti Atom
reviews
[{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/naim/uniti-atom/review","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Wheel love with the Naim Uniti Atom","link":"https://darko.audio/2018/07/wheel-love-with-the-naim-uniti-atom","source":"Darko Audio","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom All-In-One Integrated Amplifier with HDMI ARC","link":"https://addictedtoaudio.com.au/blogs/reviews/naim-uniti-atom-all-in-one-integrated-amplifier-with-hdmi-arc","source":"Addicted To Audio","datePublished":""},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom Network Amplifier Review: Is it the Powered Streamer to Rule Them All?","link":"https://www.ecoustics.com/reviews/naim-uniti-atom-network-amplifier","source":"Ecoustics","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"What’s in a Naim? A Uniti Atom Review","link":"https://audiophilestyle.com/ca/reviews/what%E2%80%99s-in-a-naim-a-uniti-atom-review-r745","source":"Audiophile Style","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom | The Desktop","link":"https://pt.audio/2023/07/21/naim-uniti-atom-the-desktop","source":"pt.audio","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom review","link":"https://www.techradar.com/reviews/naim-uniti-atom","source":"TechRadar","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom Review","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/audio-player/media-streamer/naim-uniti-atom-review","source":"Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom All-In-One Audio System | Review","link":"https://pt.audio/2019/01/20/naim-uniti-atom-all-in-one-audio-system-review","source":"pt.audio","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom Review","link":"https://www.themasterswitch.com/naim-uniti-atom-review","source":"The Master Switch","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom Review","link":"https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/naim-uniti-atom","source":"Trusted Reviews","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Uniti Atom From Naim: All For One…?","link":"https://theaudiophileman.com/uniti-atom-naim-review-streaming","source":"The Audiophile Man","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Naim Audio Uniti Atom All-In-One System","link":"https://www.audiophilia.com/reviews/2017/8/19/naim-audio-uniti-atom","source":"Audiophilia","datePublished":"2017"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom All-in-One Wireless Music Player Reviewed","link":"https://hometheaterreview.com/naim-uniti-atom-all-in-one-wireless-music-player-reviewed","source":"Home Theater Review","datePublished":"2017"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom","link":"https://www.dutchiee.tv/reviews/audio/naim-uniti-atom","source":"Dutchiee","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"BEST MUSIC STREAMING PLAYER! Naim Uniti Atom Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdXkSeDn-Zs","source":"Andrew Robinson","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom Review w/ Upscale Audio's Kevin Deal & Kat Ourlian","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbEoFt1BXh8","source":"Upscale Audio High Fidelity","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRI5sONCzd8","source":"United States of Analog","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Naim Uniti Atom: Future-Fi for Music First Audiophiles","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00GRnwGkE-U","source":"Darko Audio","datePublished":"2019"}]
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
- Audio Format: WAV up to 32bits/384kHz, FLAC/AIFF up to 24bit/384kHz, ALAC up to 24bit/384kHz
- Power Output: 40W per channel into 8 ohm
- Analogue inputs: 1 x Stereo RCA pair
- Analogue outputs: 1 x Stereo power amplifier, 1 x RCA sub/pre output
- Digital inputs: 2 x optical TOSLink (up to 24bit/96kHz), 1 x coaxial RCA (up to 24bit/192kHz)
- Headphone outputs: 1 x jack 3.5mm
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 9.5 x 24.5 x 26.5 cm (3.75 x 9.44 x 10.43 in)
- Weight: 7 kg (15.43 lb)
- Power consumption: 90W normal use, <2W network standby, <0.5W deep sleep
Description
The Uniti Atom is the epitome of elegance and performance in a single device. This all-in-one streaming player has a stunning British design that is both eye-catching and timeless. The Uniti Atom is designed with excellent build quality, usability, and versatility in mind. You can stream your favourite music, tune in to your preferred radio stations, and even enjoy enhanced audio while watching TV. With its adaptability, the Uniti Atom transforms your home into an immersive audio oasis. Every sound is crystal clear, every note is pure, and every detail is brought to life.
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:
- Naim devices, such as the Uniti Atom HE and Mu-So 2nd Generation, employ a fully-featured streaming platform that extends from their entry-level products to their flagship ND 555 player.
- The brand uses oversized, beautifully lit volume knobs as a central design element across various product lines, contributing to a tactile user experience.
- Their products are designed to be aesthetically flexible and to be easily incorporated into both high-end and real world listening environments.
- Naim designs components with the potential for future upgrades, such as adding external power supplies, enabling long-term use.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Uniti Atom
- Positioning: The entry-level all-in-one streaming amplifier in the Naim lineup.
- Description: Features a compact design and high-quality sound, making it ideal for small rooms or as a secondary system. It features a 40W per channel amplifier and supports a wide range of streaming services, offering versatility similar to the Uniti Star but at a lower power output and without CD playback capabilities. This makes it a great choice for those with a moderate budget who prioritize streaming and connectivity over physical media.
Uniti Star
- Positioning: Sits in the middle of the Uniti range, offering more features than the Atom but less than the Nova.
- Description: Combines streaming capabilities with CD playback and ripping, which the Atom lacks. It delivers 70W per channel, providing a more powerful sound suitable for larger rooms or those seeking a more dynamic audio experience.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
318
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
8
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
28
Founding Year
1973
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.
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
Naim
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Naim
Uniti Nova PE
5999
5999
/
8
Reviews
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
.svg)
Product Strengths
- Sleek, understated, and elegant design with a substantial feel
- Comprehensive streaming support, including Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive), Chromecast, Internet Radio, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, Tidal, and UPnP, and is Roon Ready
- Delivers music with a sense of immediacy
- Tight and detailed bass response
- The 5-inch LCD screen displays high-resolution album art
Product Considerations
- Is not a fan of heavily compressed or low-resolution content
- The Naim sound is not a lush sound and can err slightly on the 'harder' end of the spectrum rather than the warmer end
- The app has a laggy volume control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Uniti Nova: It offers more power (150W vs 70W), and it has tighter bass
- Vs NAD Masters M33: In terms of sound quality, they are likely on par, while the NAD may be a tad quieter and more transparent, the Naim is likely ballsier and weightier
- Vs Lyngdorf MXA-8400: Connecting the RCA preamp outputs of the Nova PE to the MXA-8400, to turn amplification duty over to the Lyngdorf, resulted in little difference in sound
- Vs JDS Labs Atom headphone amplifier: The Naim lacked some bass thump, most noticeable on Vanilla Ice's "Ice Ice Baby (Too Cold for Christmas Mix)"
Takeaway: The Uniti Nova PE is a well-built all-in-one system that combines modern styling cues with traditional aesthetics, and offers a powerful and engaging audio experience. It is a great choice for buyers seeking luxury and state-of-the-art sound in a convenient package.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Product Page
Product Page
Naim
Uniti Nova
6899
6899
/
13
Reviews
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Combines comprehensive functionality, connectivity and usability with good performance, and elegant design
- Exceptional sound quality is described as refined, muscular, detailed, confident, transparent, and natural
- Easy to use, has a great control app, a remote, and an intuitive interface that removes itself from the system
- Well-built with premium materials, including CNC-machined aluminum casework, finned heat sinks, and a hefty toroidal transformer
- Has a musicality that makes it hard to be objective about, the music flows as you listen and makes you want to repeat
Product Considerations
- Overheating may occur due to undersized heatsinks under demanding conditions
- Naim's speaker connectors may be unique, although banana plugs are an acceptable workaround
- Although a detail performer, it isn't the quietest digital source or imaging performer in the market
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Uniti Star: The Nova has a more substantial amplifier section, with greater current delivery and stability into tricky loads
- Vs SuperUniti: The Nova offers a more dynamic, detailed, fluid, and natural sound–with a bigger soundstage
- Vs Chord Electronics CPM2800 MkII: The Nova is closer spiritually to separates like the Chord CPM2800 MkII than to other all-in-one systems
- Vs NAD M10: The Naim Unit Nova has full unwavering control of the entire frequency range, from the deepest chest-thumping bass to the most delicate highs
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: The Nova has more power to get a good result in bigger rooms, whereas the Atom needs to be in a smaller room
Takeaway: The Naim Uniti Nova is a well-designed and easy-to-use all-in-one system that combines comprehensive functionality with very good sound quality. It's a good choice for those who want a convenient and high-performing audio solution without the complexity of separates.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Product Page
Product Page
Naim
NAP 350
8499
8499
/
2
Reviews
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- High current delivery effectively drives demanding loudspeakers
- Combines pace, rhythm, timing, and dynamics with improved imaging and stage depth
- Superb drive, impressive bandwidth, detail, and power maximize loudspeaker performance
- Low noise floor
- Handsome looking with an illuminated Naim logo
- Only accepts interconnects terminated with an XLR
- Custom Naim loudspeaker connectors work best with Naim cables
Product Considerations
- Compact but heavy, the NAP 350 monoblocks weigh 36.4 pounds each
Takeaway: The NAP 350 is a powerful and handsome amplifier that offers superb drive. It maximizes loudspeaker performance, making music exciting to listen to.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Product Page
Product Page
.png){kind=logo}
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.
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Naim
Uniti Atom Headphone Edition
3799
/
Released
2021
There is no easier way for you to get up close and personal with music than with the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition; put on your headphones, take yourself away, with no distractions. For even more flexibility, you can keep up to three headphones plugged in and switch sets depending on your listening preference.
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
- Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
- Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
- Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
- Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to
Product Considerations
- The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
- The front display is not a touchscreen
- Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
- The HDMI ARC connection is absent
- The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
- As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
- Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200
Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Product Page
Product Page
.png){kind=logo}
Enleum
HPA-23RM
3000
/
Released
2022
The HPA-23RM is our new reference dedicated headphone amplifier. It is designed for both high-end desktop usage and mobile usage – hence using "R" for reference and "M" for mobile in the product name.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers both voltage-driven and current-driven amplifier circuits, providing versatility in driving different headphone types
- Fully discrete, zero-feedback circuit design contributes to a sweeter and more natural sound
- Battery-powered, offering portability and the ability to use it in locations without AC power
- High-quality craftsmanship, solid build with aluminum case
- Expertly controls headphone drivers, offering immaculate bass slam
Product Considerations
- The price tag is high
- Size is large for a portable device
- It is a single-ended only amplifier
- The volume control may be somewhat inconvenient
- Battery life is limited to about 5 hours on voltage circuit and 3 hours on current circuit
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The HPA-23RM has a slightly less refined treble response and separation isn't quite as good when compared to Enleum AMP-23R; the AMP-23R had more weight behind the notes and a greater sense of transparency
- The Chord Hugo TT2 separates vocals more nicely, while the HPA-23RM is smoother
Takeaway: The HPA-23RM is a versatile and well-designed headphone amplifier, great for users looking for a transportable amp with multiple amplification circuits. It delivers high-quality sound and can drive demanding headphones, offering a unique listening experience.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
NAD
M23
3749
/
Released
2022
Building on NAD's long tradition of identifying and developing cutting-edge amplification technology, the M23 HybridDigital Stereo Power Amplifier features Purifi Audio's Eigentakt™ design, a once-in-a-decade innovation that virtually eliminates harmonic and intermodulation distortion. Noise is inaudible, for a completely black background and exquisite micro-detail. Conservatively rated at 2x200W continuous into 8 ohms and 2x380W into 4 ohms, the M23 can deliver live performance levels through any loudspeaker.
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The M23's build quality feels solid and elegant, with impressive small design details
- The sound is striking in its purity and clarity
- It offers up to three levels of gain, switchable on the back panel, to best fit the system
- It provides a clear sound without sounding hard
- It features Purifi Eigentakt Class D amplification, which provides virtually unmeasurable distortion levels
Product Considerations
- The bass is clean but may be perceived as a little on the cool side and not as 'wompy-sounding'
- The M23 is not a forgiving amplifier that makes everything sound sweet and wonderful—it's not for those seeking a soft and mellow sound
- Bridging with speakers below 5 or 6 ohms is not recommended, as the amp will current limit and potentially shut down
- The reviewer found ergonomical challenges using fancy speaker cables in bridged mode due to wide terminal spacing
- The capacitive touch power button can accidentally trigger
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bel Canto C6i: The M23 offered a layer of refinement and better reproduction of the recording space
- Vs Pass XA25: The M23 had more transparent sound and detail, especially in the treble and upper mids, but lacked the organic quality of the XA25
- Vs HiFi Rose RS 520: The M23 sounded cleaner and had better separation/depth, HiFi Rose seemed to have an EQ built-in, emphasizing midrange and bass
- Vs NAD C298: The M23 is more neutral, deals with decay more naturally, and has better casework, making it look high-end
- Vs Anthem M1 monoblock amplifiers: The M23 was slightly more transparent throughout the entire frequency range
- Vs Bryston 4B 3: The Bryston had more grunt but the M23 is more neutral
Takeaway: The NAD M23 is a powerful and precise amplifier that delivers clean and clear sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want to hear their music as accurately as possible. It is especially well-suited for those looking to build a high-end system around a quality preamp or DAC.
Video review
Our take on the brand
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
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.
