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
- Clarity and natural tonality in the midrange and high frequencies rivals much more expensive amplifiers
- Exceptional imaging precision and soundstage depth—due to a pitch-black background
- Top-quality components are used, including WEMA film caps and a Blue Beauty Alps volume pot, which are unusually good for the price
- The circuit is DC coupled between stages, improving clarity and reducing coloration
- Hand built in Durham, England by MVA, a small hifi manufacturer driven by enthusiasm
Product Considerations
- Bass lacks definition and grip—affecting the overall rhythm
- Limited power may struggle with inefficient speakers or larger rooms
- Speaker matching is critical to achieve optimal performance; unwise choices can lead to disappointment
- Careful selection of speaker cables is required, avoiding shielded or twisted geometry cables with high capacitance to prevent potential oscillation
- The acrylic casework and lack of remote control may not appeal to all users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Exposure 2510: S80 surpasses it in clarity and natural tonality in the mid-range and high frequencies
- Vs Hegel H190: S80 surpasses it in sheer levels of insight in the mid-range and high frequencies
- Vs Accuphase E280: S80 matches it in clarity and surpasses it in natural tonality
- Vs Cambridge Audio AXA35: Cambridge Audio AXA35 does an equally good job of hanging on to the rhythm section
Takeaway: The S80 power amp is a great piece of kit for people who value clarity and natural sound. It offers a unique approach to amplifier design.
All
S80
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Power Output: 35w
- Power Supply: single 80va
- Input Impedance: 47k ohms
- Gain: 30db
- Dimensions: w250mm x h65mm x d205mm
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:
Select products
NVA P50 MKII Passive Preamplifier
- Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for simplicity and musical transparency.
- Description: Praised for its completely passive design, which ensures high musical transparency and simplicity. Unlike the more advanced models like the P50SA, it offers a basic yet effective solution for those who want to maintain a pure signal path without active components. This makes it ideal for users with a limited budget who prioritize a straightforward setup in small to medium-sized rooms.
NVA S80 Stereo Power Amplifier
- Positioning: Mid-range amplifier, suitable for bi-amping setups.
- Description: Designed for bi-amping tweeters, offering a low-power solution with excellent results when paired with the right speakers. It stands out from higher-end models like the S300 by focusing on specific bi-amping applications.
NVA Artisan S300 Stereo Power Amplifier
- Positioning: High-performance stereo amplifier for serious audiophiles.
- Description: Offers a significant upgrade with its high-quality Toroidy transformers and dedicated power supplies, providing excellent musical transparency and dynamic ease. Compared to the S80, it delivers more power and is suitable for a wider range of speakers.
NVA Artisan M600 Monoblock Power Amplifiers
- Positioning: Premium monoblock amplifiers for ultimate performance.
- Description: Features twin power supplies per channel, offering greater transparency and dynamic ease, especially with demanding speakers. Unlike the S300, these monoblocks provide dedicated power for each channel, enhancing separation and detail.
NVA Integrated Amplifier in Satin Matt Case
- Positioning: Flagship integrated amplifier with a focus on versatility and power.
- Description: Features a new satin-matt finish and upgraded power supplies, offering 70 watts of power with a premium volume pot for optimal signal purity. It combines the functionality of separate components like the P50 and S300 into a single unit.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
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?
Used
NVA
What if you spend more?
Evolution Elegance is the most powerful amplifier in the Evolution series. It is constructed as push-pull using well known 6550 (KT88) output tubes. Output power is 50W per channel, which is sufficient for most speakers, even those with lower than average sensitivity. This is a power amplifier, requiring preamplifier and opening endless possibilities for system configuration.
Based on previous work on negative feedback, -6dB reaction has been tuned to provide sound equivalent to a good Single Ended application. Cathode feedback was used as the most musical one. Bass is well controlled, dynamic response is excellent and this amplifier belongs to the very top of its class.
Same as all previous models, well designed power supply utilizes 300VA toroidal transformer, C-L-C filter and Nippon Chemi-Con electrolytics. Output transformers are based on a Double-C core configuration and Solen fast capacitors are used throughout. Adding well thought-out concept to the mix results in a recognizable high quality sound of our amplifiers.
Modern styling of Trafomatic Audio amplifiers has been extended to this model as well, which makes a perfect sonic and visual fit with Evolution Line One preamplifier. An excellent starting point for full immersion in good sound. See and hear for yourself.
.svg)
Product Strengths
- Top-quality finish and material selection
- Beautifully smooth and particularly natural sound reproduction
- Little sound of its own, so no typical tube coloring
- Tight bass
- Excellent price-performance ratio
Product Considerations
- Tubes require occasional extra attention
- Tubes need to be replaced every few years
- The power amplifier requires more space due to heat dissipation
Takeaway: The Trafomatic Evolution Line One and Elegance offer top-class pre- and power amplifiers with star quality for the price of an excellent integrated amplifier. Any music lover should quickly be able to embrace these two products.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The EVO 300 features PrimaLuna's exclusive AC Offset Killer technology that provides an extremely quiet background by reducing transformer noise to unprecedented levels. It includes a Bad Tube Indicator system that puts the amp into protection mode if a tube fails, with LED indicators showing which tube needs replacement.
The amp uses premium Takman resistors from Japan, known for their low noise and musicality. It can be operated in either stereo or monoblock configuration by simply flipping a switch. In monoblock mode, it provides dual output transformers for optimal speaker coupling and adds a 2-ohm speaker tap.
The unit employs custom toroidal power transformers that radiate minimal magnetic field interference and feature potted designs for noise reduction and protection. It uses super-wide-bandwidth output transformers designed and wound in-house for extended frequency response.
The EVO 300 features PrimaLuna's Adaptive AutoBias technology, which monitors and adjusts tube operation in real time, reducing distortion and extending tube life. The amp is hand-wired point-to-point using Swiss-made, silver-plated, oxygen-free continuous crystal copper wire with Teflon dielectric in critical signal paths.
The amplifier is compatible with a wide range of tubes including 6L6G, 6L6GC, 7581A, EL34, EL37, 6550, KT66, KT77, KT88, KT90, KT120, and KT150, offering users flexibility in fine-tuning their sound.
Product Strengths
- The EVO 300 runs EL34 tubes at a conservative 440 volts, increasing tube life and reliability
- Adaptive auto bias ensures tubes work together in their perfect linear operating position, reducing distortion and extending tube life
- Point-to-point wiring gives the product an intrinsic value and increases longevity
- High-quality components like TACMAN resistors, Nichicon capacitors, and Swiss-made silver-plated oxygen-free copper wiring are used
- It includes an AC Offset Killer to reduce mechanical hum from the power transformer
Product Considerations
- EL34 tubes are not as durable as KT120s
- If KT-150 tubes are used, the tube cage cannot be installed, because the tubes are too tall
- Switching from ultralinear to triode operation cuts the power in half, requiring volume adjustment for fair comparison
- The reviewer recommends using the speaker tap that 'sounds best' rather than relying on the speaker's impedance rating
Takeaway: The EVO 300 Power Amp is a high-quality amplifier designed for everyday use and long-term reliability. Its flexible design lets you experiment with different tubes and sound signatures.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- The M600 monoblocks clean up the bass compared to the smaller S80 power amplifier
- The M600 monoblocks offer clarity in mid-range and natural tonality
- The M600 monoblocks provide detail and beauty/grace at high frequencies
- Excellent timing translates into precise imaging and superior spatial qualities
- The M600s improve the separation of transients and instruments compared to the S80
Product Considerations
- Bass lacks impact
- Careful consideration of partnering equipment is required to ensure it has detail and timing ability to match the amps
- The P50SA is a passive pre-amplifier, and some people who listen at loud volumes with low-sensitivity speakers may run out of dynamic headroom
- There is no remote control, which may be a problem for some users
- The speaker posts only accept banana plugs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Burson stack has similar abilities to pull details from recordings, but sounds comparatively hifi with a more synthetic-sounding mid-range
- The Musical Fidelity is very resolving and will play a lot louder, but sounds artificial in the mid-range by comparison
- The Yamaha is great value and has a detailed presentation, but there's some leanness in the mid-range that isn't present with the P50SA M600s
- The Accuphase shares a wonderful sense of timing, but has a slight leanness in the mid-range
- The Hegel has greater slam to kick drums, but is no match for the NVA P50SA and M600 monoblocks in other regards
- The Exposure delivers more dynamic fireworks and a warmer, richer tone, but the NVA Pre mono combination has the more accurate tone, greater resolution of details, and a better sense of timing
Takeaway: The NVA M600 monoblocks paired with the P50SA preamplifier are a purist audiophile's dream that produce the finest sound for the price with unmatched clarity and definition. If detail and natural sound quality are desired, this could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
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
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Vacuum tube design using four 12AX7A valves, two per channel with stainless steel individual cage surrounds
- Detailed, dynamic, and very musical
- Versatile, bridging the gap between the audiophile and custom install worlds
Product Considerations
- Sound was initially warmer than expected
- May sound too warm for some listeners' preference
- More expensive cables are not always the better option, system compatibility plays a big part
Takeaway: The C8 offers a unique combination of tube and solid-state technology, providing detailed and dynamic sound. It is a great option for those looking for a musical and engaging listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional metal fit seen on amplifiers
- First 5W in class A and then it moves to AB, providing sweetness and natural harmonics
- Delivers the most current output (45A per channel peak current), translating into the hardest slamming power amplifier
- Cleanest sounding power amplifier with absolutely zero noise coming out of speakers
- AC turn-on in-rush surge protection, overload and over-temperature protection
Product Considerations
- Sound was initially too upfront, too close and personal and dynamics were missing, needing a one-month burn-in period to bloom
- Delivers only 130W in 8ohms, and it has a max power of 240W for some short dynamic swings
- Power consumption doubled from 500W on S125 to 1000W on S300
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Kinki Studio EX-M7—S300 delivers more current output and speed, making it the hardest slamming power amplifier, while being comparable in transparency and resolution
Takeaway: The S300 is a high-end power amplifier that delivers a clean and powerful sound, and will adjust to the music, gear, and room acoustics. It offers a top-notch performance, making it a great addition to any hifi audio setup.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Open, neutral, and extremely rewarding sound quality
- Excellent phono stage and headphone amplifier
- Beautifully made with a solid build quality
- Transparent sound allows the listener to shape the system's character
- Integrated amp can be partnered to double down on transparency or to shape the system you want
Product Considerations
- Remote control can be a bit difficult to use in low light
- Offers less functionality compared to some rivals at the same price point
- Some reviewers found certain performances to be slightly cool
- Volume adjustments with the remote control could be more sophisticated
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The MOON 250i v2 sounds more open than the MOON 600i v2
- The MOON 250i V2 is not as tactile in the treble region, when compared to Naim Nait XS 3
- The MOON 250i V2 has more bite in the treble region, when compared to Exposure 3510
- The Pass Labs amplifier has a more transparent—involving sound, when compared to the MOON 250i V2
Takeaway: The MOON 250i v2 is a well-made amplifier that delivers transparent sound quality suitable for various audio systems and listening preferences. It is a great choice for those looking for quality audio reproduction without needing all the latest digital features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
.png){kind=logo}
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
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
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
