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
- High sound quality for its price
- Fluidity, delicacy, and refinement reminiscent of classic Jeff Rowland amplifiers
- A 30% reduction in MOSFET temperature during high-speed operation exceeding 750kHz, enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring sound stability
- Aerospace-grade ultra-high-precision resistors with a minimal error margin of 1/1000
- A newly developed AC power supply minimizes external radiation noise interference, while a redesigned SMPS power module ensures an ultra-low-noise system power supply for circuits that require low voltages
Product Considerations
- Lacks the ST-10's sonorous ballsiness, nor entirely all of its dynamic impact
- The enhanced realism might not emulate a tube sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- AMG STA-SE narrows the gap between the different sound characteristics of models such as the NuPrime ST-10
- AMG STA-SE improves the tonality and elevates the realism, deeper stereo imaging, tighter bass, more dynamics, and transparency
Takeaway: The AMG STA-SE delivers high sound quality with enhanced precision and detail. It is a true value amplifier that is worth keeping for a long time
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
AMG STA-SE
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Stereo Power: 2 X 130W @ 8 Ohm & 2 X 200W @ 4 Ohm
- Mono Power: 300W @ 8 Ohm & 320W @ 4 Ohm
- Rated / Peak Current: 10A / 15A
- Gain: 26 (stereo) & 52 (mono)
- Signal to Noise Ratio: 100 dB @ 10W
- THD+N: 0.006
- Frequency Response: 10Hz~50K Hz +-0.2dB @ 8 Ohm, 58K Hz @ -3dB
- Input Impedance: 1M Ohm
- Output Impedance: 20m Ohm
- Sensitivity: 1.2 Vrms @ Stereo; 0.95 Vrms @ Mono
- Color: Grey
- Product Dimension: 55 x 235 x 300 mm (H x W x D)
- Package Dimension: 90 x 430 x 320 mm (H x W x D)
- Product Weight: 4.5kg
- Package Weight: 6kg
Description
The AMG STA-SE incorporates numerous cutting-edge innovations in power amp design. Its exceptional features include a 1M Ohm input impedance, high instantaneous current for efficient power delivery, a >700kHz switching frequency, and a unique combination of Single-Ended Non-Negative Class A module with Double Feedback Class D module, resulting in a powerful 300W mono amp output. The exceptionally smooth sound characteristic of the AMG STA-SE sets it apart from other top NuPrime amps like the AMG One, Evolution STA, and Evolution Two.
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:
- NuPrime's designs incorporate their proprietary Class D amplification techniques, deviating significantly from off-the-shelf modules by using higher switching frequencies and custom-designed circuits.
- They often include a unique Harmonic Generation Circuit, utilizing Class A transistors, to provide a warmer, more tube-like sound in their solid-state designs.
Select products
Select product comparisons
STA-9
- Positioning: A hybrid Class A+D amplifier offering both stereo and mono operation with a design aimed at delivering warm, tube-like sound at an accessible price point.
- Description: Uses an enhanced even-order harmonic circuit, high switching frequency, and refined linear power supply to produce transparent sound with controlled dynamics. Compared to higher-priced models in the lineup, it provides balanced performance for typical home setups and moderate soundstage needs.
PRA-9X
- Positioning: A fully balanced preamplifier designed for ultra-low distortion and precise phono input processing at an attractive entry-level price.
- Description: Achieves low THD through a specialized audio relay switch and NJR MUSES8820 op-amp circuitry while offering versatile settings for different MM cartridges. Compared to the integrated IA-9X, it emphasizes refined source input quality for users focused on vinyl playback and detailed analog transmission.
IA-9X
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier that combines modern Class-D efficiency with adjustable harmonic generation to allow a choice between a neutral or warmer sound signature.
- Description: Dual-circuit design combines Only Distortion Cancellation with a Harmonic Generation mode, letting users select a sound character that suits diverse musical genres. Compared to the PRA-9X and AMG PRA, it merges amplification and preamplification in one unit.
AMG PRA
- Positioning: A transparent preamplifier that introduces an active low frequency and harmonic gain control feature to enhance bass performance.
- Description: Features a selectable four-stage control that extends low-frequency response without raising overall volume, backed by a fully balanced design and high input impedance. Compared to lower-priced models, it delivers advanced analog source input performance and tone customization.
Evolution STA
- Positioning: A flagship stereo amplifier delivering exceptional distortion cancellation and robust dual-mono performance for demanding audio setups.
- Description: Only Distortion Cancellation (ODC) Class-D design, high switching frequency, and enhanced power supply work together to provide natural sound with superior clarity and controlled dynamics. Compared to the other models in the lineup, it targets users with high expectations for premium sound quality and larger room applications.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
31
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
123
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
32
Founding Year
2014
Our take on the brand
NuPrime Audio is known for its proprietary Class-D amplification technology that delivers high power with low distortion through its Only Distortion Cancellation circuit and high switching frequencies of 650kHz. Their amplifiers produce a natural, tonally dense, and warm sound character similar to tube amplifiers, making them particularly appealing to listeners who appreciate the warmth of tubes but want the efficiency of solid state.
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What if you spend more?
Nuprime
Evolution STA
4995
4995
/
2
Reviews
The Evolution STA offers a breakthrough in distortion reduction (Only Distortion Cancellation) and rivals the Evolution One in sound quality. It is a stereo amplifier with a dual-mono configuration. Rated RMS Power: 230W @ 8 Ohm.
NuPrime Audio is known for its proprietary Class-D amplification technology that delivers high power with low distortion through its Only Distortion Cancellation circuit and high switching frequencies of 650kHz. Their amplifiers produce a natural, tonally dense, and warm sound character similar to tube amplifiers, making them particularly appealing to listeners who appreciate the warmth of tubes but want the efficiency of solid state.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Sublime bass performance—full-size, unrestrained, rock-solid, full-bodied, weighty, fast, articulate, and nimble
- Superbly neutral midrange—concrete, clean, open, and expressive, without sounding lean or devoid of saturation or harmonics
- Excellent tonal saturation and great texturing, without even a sliver of edge or hardness
- Soundstaging is a surprising strong suit—wide, deep, and room-filling stage with strong focus and depth
- Exceedingly low noise floor and superb resolution of low-level detail
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- Treble is a bit dry and ever so slightly dark, and not as good as some competitors in an absolute sense
- May lack fluidity compared to some amplifiers
- May be less emotionally captivating with certain delicate music
- Limited macrodynamic reach with challenging speaker loads
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Evolution STA bass is reminiscent of Analog Domain, AVM, and Anthem amplifiers
- The Evolution STA has similar bass and overall solidity to the NuPrime ST-10, but with more linearity, refinement, and low-level detail
- The AMG-STA sounds airier, more refined, and more fluid than the Evolution STA
Takeaway: The NuPrime Evolution STA power amplifier offers a balanced and neutral sound with exceptional bass performance and soundstaging. It's a great amp for those seeking a solid-state amplifier that conveys the music as unedited as possible.
Video review
Our take on the brand
NuPrime Audio is known for its proprietary Class-D amplification technology that delivers high power with low distortion through its Only Distortion Cancellation circuit and high switching frequencies of 650kHz. Their amplifiers produce a natural, tonally dense, and warm sound character similar to tube amplifiers, making them particularly appealing to listeners who appreciate the warmth of tubes but want the efficiency of solid state.
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NAD
M23
3749
3749
/
13
Reviews
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. With its unique combination of features, performance, and value, the M23 represents the new benchmark for the stereo power amplifier.
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.
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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.
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Parasound
Halo A52+
4199
4199
/
9
Reviews
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.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers ample, clean, and dynamic power to all channels, ensuring speakers reach their full potential
- Designed by John Curl, featuring Class A/AB circuitry for a balance of warmth, richness, efficiency, and punch
- Pleasing sound for dialogue and music, with very high-quality and detail
- Versatile, suitable for both movies and music, with a low noise floor for quiet passages and great transparency—that doesn't color the sound
- Built to last, with high-quality internal components
- Signal-sensing power-on mode can be fussy and may require adjustment
Product Considerations
- Super heavy and large, potentially requiring rearranging a system or dedicated rack space
- Only available in anodized black
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The A52 Plus has bigger parts and bigger power than the Outlaw Model 5000, including balanced XLR connections
- A52 Plus is the 'teenager' compared to the elder Parasound A51
- Parasound A52+ sounds better, is more accurate, and more powerful than the Denon receiver's amplifier section
Takeaway: The Parasound A52+ Halo is a versatile and powerful amplifier that delivers clean, dynamic sound for both home theater and music systems, with a build quality designed to last. This is a worthy investment for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who seek high-quality audio performance.
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.
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Orchard Audio
Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DMC 2.5
4249
4249
/
16
Reviews
This amplifier has an independent power supply for each channel and 87,200uF (43,600 per channel) of added capacitance on the power supply rails. The Starkrimson® Stereo Ultra DMC offers phenomenal sonic performance. Its advanced design and meticulous construction ensure exceptional clarity, power, and dynamic range. Experience the nuances of your favorite recordings with crystal clear detail and realism. A must-have for discerning audiophiles, and music lovers/enthusiasts seeking to elevate their musical experience.
Orchard Audio is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that uses Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their Starkrimson amplifiers, which allows for faster switching and less distortion compared to traditional amplifiers. Their compact Starkrimson Mono amplifiers deliver 150 watts per channel with very low noise, and the company provides detailed specifications and measurements that are valued by the audiophile community.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptionally transparent sound output quality
- Exceptionally powerful, capable of outputting 500W into a 4-Ohm load
- Delivers a remarkably clean, transparent sound with very little noise or distortion
- The amplifier's ability to reproduce bass is awe-inspiring and delivers deep, powerful bass without distortion
- Runs cool and weighs very little for its sound output, making it easy to move around
Product Considerations
- Options can be a little pricy, such as the 12v trigger and RCA inputs
- The Starkrimson Stereo Ultra may lead to further system upgrades
- Depending on your sources, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra will play exactly what you feed it, good or bad, and if your source components are slow, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra will not speed them up
- Power on only after all connections are properly made, including the power cord, analog inputs, and speaker outputs, and wait five minutes after powering it off before removing any of the connections
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Krell S550i integrated amp, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra showed a much faster and finer resolution of the upper frequencies of the human voice and a far greater ability to play more of the microdetails of a recording
Takeaway: The Starkrimson amplifier is well-built and provides a level of speed and transparency to hifi music that makes listening to music very fun. Its GaN modules can be upgraded and it is available in several configurations.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Orchard Audio is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that uses Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their Starkrimson amplifiers, which allows for faster switching and less distortion compared to traditional amplifiers. Their compact Starkrimson Mono amplifiers deliver 150 watts per channel with very low noise, and the company provides detailed specifications and measurements that are valued by the audiophile community.
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What competes at this price?
Nuprime
STA-9X
1249
/
Released
2023
The NuPrime STA-9X, a 2 X 130W Class A+D stereo amp, bridgeable into a 330W mono amp, is designed with enhanced even-order harmonic circuitry that mimics the most attractive features of tubed and Class-A amp sound without incurring their drawbacks and limitations. The STA-9X's frequency response to 50 kHz elevates vocals into emotional experiences; similarly, instrumental upper registers mimic a live performance's shimmering heights.
NuPrime Audio is known for its proprietary Class-D amplification technology that delivers high power with low distortion through its Only Distortion Cancellation circuit and high switching frequencies of 650kHz. Their amplifiers produce a natural, tonally dense, and warm sound character similar to tube amplifiers, making them particularly appealing to listeners who appreciate the warmth of tubes but want the efficiency of solid state.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Powerful Class A/D stereo power amplifier, with an output of 2x 130Watt at 4 and 8 Ohms
- Can be used as a 'monoblock' to output 1x 330 Watt of 4 and 8 Ohm output power
- Dual-mono construction, with both single-ended RCA input and a balanced XLR input
- Firm grip and well controlled lows
- Trigger input and output automatically switch it on/off when the DAC9-X or a pre-amp is switched on
Product Considerations
- When using two STA-9X power amps in bridged mode, you can't connect the high level input of a subwoofer to the speaker terminals on the amp
- Combining the DAC9-X, STA-9X, and Streamline still results in a slightly bright sound
Takeaway: The STA-9X offers good value for its features and sound quality. With its ability to be bridged for even more power, it is a solution for speakers that need more current.
Video review
Our take on the brand
NuPrime Audio is known for its proprietary Class-D amplification technology that delivers high power with low distortion through its Only Distortion Cancellation circuit and high switching frequencies of 650kHz. Their amplifiers produce a natural, tonally dense, and warm sound character similar to tube amplifiers, making them particularly appealing to listeners who appreciate the warmth of tubes but want the efficiency of solid state.
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Galion
TS A75
1495
/
Released
2024
The performance of this amplifier is so good that you will question whether the significantly more expensive amplifier you are currently shopping for is truly better than this one; for those who prefer XLR, the TS A75 comes with both XLR and RCA inputs.
Galion Audio designs amplifiers with truly balanced architecture and tube-like sound characteristics, featuring unique controls for feedback levels and tone adjustments that avoid typical tonal discoloration. Their amplifiers are distinguished by robust power supplies with dual toroidal transformers and the ability to switch between Class A and Class AB modes, which is rare in their price range.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a tube-like sound, with a warm and musical presentation
- Robust power supply with substantial capacitance (200,000 microfarads) provides good bass control and dynamics
- Transparent and precise sound, with a wide and deep soundstage
- Balanced design with both RCA and XLR inputs, the latter offering a cleaner and more dynamic sound
- Offers excellent value, outperforming other amplifiers in a similar price range
Product Considerations
- Requires a pre-amplifier to control volume
- May exhibit slight transformer noise when close to the unit
- Does not have pop control, requiring caution when plugging/unplugging connections
- Some reviewers found the logo placement slightly off-center and the blue LED power light too bright
- Bass control is not as punchy or defined for some tastes, leaning towards a tube-like bass delivery
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The TSA-75 has a different, more flavorful sound signature compared to the Orchard Audio's neutral sound
- The TSA-75 provides superior micro detail, cleanliness, clarity, and stereo imaging, compared to Schiit Audio Vidar 2
- Performance is head-to-head with the Denafrips Thalo, depending on sound preference—the more balanced, snappy presentation of the Thalo, or the more V-shaped sound with greater depth and soundstage of the TSA-75
- The TSA-75 has a distinct sound signature, unlike Emotiva amps
- The TSA-75 outperforms the McIntosh MC275 Mark VI in audiophile performance
Takeaway: The Galion Audio TS A75 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a warm, tube-like sound with good bass and a wide soundstage. It provides excellent value and is a great choice for those looking for a musical and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Galion Audio designs amplifiers with truly balanced architecture and tube-like sound characteristics, featuring unique controls for feedback levels and tone adjustments that avoid typical tonal discoloration. Their amplifiers are distinguished by robust power supplies with dual toroidal transformers and the ability to switch between Class A and Class AB modes, which is rare in their price range.
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Schiit
Tyr
1399
/
Released
2022
Tyr is a monstrous, old-skool, crazy heavy, over-the-top mono speaker amplifier. It uses the best of today's and yesterday's technologies to create something totally unique—and It has enough power to run almost anything.
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Robust, effortless power with excellent control makes it easy to drive all speakers with authority and deliver a satisfying listening experience.
- Balanced and neutral sound, with a solid low end that prevents it from sounding dull or anemic, while also ensuring it is not too aggressive to cause listening fatigue.
- Excellent timing makes music engaging and foot-tapping, and is particularly impressive with genres such as R&B and soundtracks.
- Built in the USA, it has a 5 year warranty and 15 day satisfaction guarantee
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for listeners seeking a romantic, sweet, and smooth midrange, or those who prefer a very lively sound.
- The amp required careful system matching to achieve its full potential, particularly needing a high-end preamp to unlock greater refinement and resolution.
- Bass performance might be seriously challenged by more modern amplifiers.
- There is a slight differential in gain
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Emotiva A1s, the Tyr has more bass, more clarity in the bass, and is less veiled overall
- Reminiscent of McIntosh 7270—the Tyr gives off similar 'Mac vibes'.
Takeaway:
The Schiit Tyr monoblocks deliver a lot of power and control, making music sound good with a balanced and neutral style. It's a great option for an amplifier that can handle almost any speaker and is versatile.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
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Topping
DX9
1299
/
Released
2023
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Breathtaking design with curved corners, symmetrical front faceplate, and a glass component revealing internal circuitry
- Powerful headphone amplifier capable of outputting up to 10W at 16Ω and 7W at 32Ω
- Good sound quality, described as clean, detailed, and punchy, with a balanced tonal presentation
- CNC machined aluminum remote control with rubber buttons
- Multiple inputs and outputs, including 6.35mm, 4.4mm, and 4-pin XLR outputs on the front, and optical, coaxial, AES, IIS, USB, and Bluetooth on the back, with RCA and XLR outputs for lineout and preamplifier lineouts
Product Considerations
- Glass top panel gets hotter than the aluminum housing
- The glass panel is a fingerprint magnet and requires cleaning regularly
- No analog line-in to pair the amplifier with 3rd party DACs
- No streaming capability via WiFi or LAN
- Some menu navigation can be cumbersome, requiring cycling through options rather than direct selection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Topping A90 and D90 stack, the DX9 has similar inputs, outputs and power, but the stack is more versatile, as the amp and DAC can be used separately— the DX9 has additional coaxial and optical inputs, and the sound is somewhat similar
- Compared to the HIFIMAN EF400, the DX9 has more inputs/outputs and more power, but the EF400 sounds warmer
- Compared to the Topping D90SE, the DX9 sounds more fun, its bass and midrange has more energy and oomph, but the D90SE is more transparent, though ultimately quite flat
- Compared to the AURALiC Altair G2.1, the DX9 sounds cleaner and better separated, with a small reduction in digital hash
Takeaway: The Topping DX9 is a beautiful and powerful all-in-one DAC/amp that offers a clean and detailed sound, making it suitable for both headphone and speaker setups. Its versatility and attractive design make it a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Peachtree
GaN 1
1499
/
Released
2022
The GaN 1 is a 200 watt-per-channel power amplifier designed to be the sole interface between your variable output digital audio device, like a Bluesound NODE, and your speakers. The GaN 1 is a simple, pure and cost-effective audio solution. Connect the GaN 1 to a streamer and a pair of speakers. That's it...no DAC, no preamp and no input switching. The signal path from the music to your speakers is remarkably short and free from artifacts.
Peachtree Audio, a popular entry-level hifi brand, delivers Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their amplifiers, making Class D sound more like Class A with a richer midrange.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- GANFET transistors switch faster, are more heat resistant, and produce less distortion than MOSFET transistors
- A monstrous 400-watt regulated power supply
- Designed to work specifically with a source with a variable output, be it a silver disc-spinning device or one of today's best yet affordable HD music streamers
- Offers a level of audiophile performance that well exceeds any reasonable expectations that come with the amp's modest price tag
- Offers a super clean minimal setup when paired with the Bluesound Node
Product Considerations
- Has only one digital coaxial input, limiting connectivity options and expansion
- Lacks volume indication on the unit itself, requiring reliance on the source's volume control
- Some reviewers noticed a high-pitched noise coming from early prototypes, which was later fixed by Peachtree
- Isn't the type of amp that makes a poorly recorded song sound better
- Is a non-standard size
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Power Node: Setup has a much more substantial mid-range, better low-end control, and ever so slightly better speed with rhythmic transient attack
- Vs NAD M10 V2: Is the more dynamically relaxed
- Vs Hegel H190: Reviewers actually preferred the more forward presentation of midrange
Takeaway: The GAN1 is a forward-thinking piece of tech that prioritizes simplicity and sound quality for those who want to just stream music. It provides outstanding value and impressive performance, especially for those looking for a minimalist, high-fidelity system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Peachtree Audio, a popular entry-level hifi brand, delivers Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their amplifiers, making Class D sound more like Class A with a richer midrange.
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