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
- A very quiet background allows detailed music to emerge clearly
- Plenty of power (150W into 8 Ohms) exhibits good control, speed and dynamics
- GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology is used for efficient power throughput and performance, which shakes the bad reputation of Class D amps
- A neutral sound signature aims to reproduce the recording accurately
- Compact size allows for flexible placement and short speaker cables
- Balanced XLR cable connections are required, RCA connections need a separate adapter (sold by Orchard Audio)
Product Considerations
- Visually, the amps may not appeal to those seeking 'audiophile eye candy'
- A power cable is not included unless specified
- A power indicator light is absent
- In certain system pairings, the sound can be analytical or bright
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Starkrimson provides micron-precise separation, while the First Watt F5 thickens things up a touch
- Starkrimson offers more power and benefits from being a monoblock chassis, while the Gold Note IS-10 does not
- Starkrimson offers more power and better control over the bass, as well as speed, compared to the Nakamichi PA-5 Stasis
Takeaway: The Orchard Audio Starkrimson Mono Premium amps deliver power and performance in a small size, and are especially good for audiophiles that seek a neutral sound, lots of detail, and excellent value. These amps could be a great fit for anyone wanting a modern and efficient hifi experience.
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Starkrimson Mono (Premium)
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Power Output: 150W into 8/4Ω
- Gain: 21.5dB
- Size: 11" x 6.1" x 3.1" (26.9cm x 15.5cm x 7.9cm) - including binding posts
- Weight: 8 lbs
- Dimensions: 14 × 10 × 6 in
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:
- Orchard Audio prioritizes a minimalist design philosophy, focusing on essential features and high-quality components rather than superfluous aesthetics or connectivity options.
- They utilize cutting-edge Gallium Nitride (GaN) transistors in their Class D amplifier designs, enabling high power output, exceptional efficiency (cool running), and remarkably wide bandwidth with minimal phase shift.
- The brand emphasizes a "transparent" and "neutral" sonic signature, aiming to reproduce music accurately without adding coloration, allowing the characteristics of the source and speakers to shine through.
- A key differentiator is their direct-to-consumer sales model, coupled with modular designs and repairable/upgradeable components, offering high-end audio performance at a more accessible price point than many established brands.
Select products
Starkrimson Mono Premium
- Positioning: The entry-level high-performance monoblock amplifier in the lineup.
- Description: Offers excellent sound quality with its gallium nitride (GaN) technology, providing clear and distortion-free audio. It is ideal for those with a smaller budget who still want high-quality sound, making it suitable for small to medium-sized rooms. Compared to the Ultra models, it has a lower power output of 150W.
Starkrimson 150W
- Positioning: A versatile mid-range option in the lineup, offering both dual and triple mono configurations.
- Description: This series stands out with its flexibility, allowing users to choose between dual or triple mono setups, which is great for custom audio configurations. It shares the same GaN technology as the Mono Premium but offers more configuration options. While it provides similar power output to the Mono Premium, its versatility makes it more appealing for users with specific system compatibility needs.
Starkrimson Mono Ultra Premium
- Positioning: A high-end monoblock amplifier designed for audiophiles seeking superior performance.
- Description: This model uses advanced GaN technology, delivering exceptional clarity and dynamic range. It offers a significant power increase with 250W into 8 ohms, which is more than the Mono Premium, making it suitable for larger rooms or more demanding speakers.
Starkrimson Ultra 500W
- Positioning: The flagship model in the lineup, offering the highest power and performance.
- Description: This groundbreaking amplifier is a powerhouse, providing 500W per channel, making it ideal for large spaces and high-demand audio systems. It features state-of-the-art GaN technology, ensuring unparalleled sound quality and efficiency. Compared to other models, its superior power output and advanced features justify its premium price.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Clean and clear music with a very dead black background, allowing the music to breathe and swell naturally
- Very firm and deep bass response, sounding incredibly powerful
- Delivers a muscular sense of control over musical dynamics and instrumental transients, confirming an abundance of reserve power
- Accurate and transparent sound, reflecting changes in equipment and cables
- Sound signature similar to a really good class AB or class A amplifier, with natural and transparent sound and very good power and control
Product Considerations
- Some users may find the lack of an on/off light and remote control disconcerting
- At 105 dB range, the bass control gets weaker and the bass gets less pronounced
- Synergy-wise, it does not work well with R2R pre-stages
- Some found it a little less dynamic and a little too soft, but still good and engaging
- Needs to be powered on only when something is plugged into the outputs to avoid damage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Starke Sound ZA3s: Starkrimson is the next step above in clarity and power for home theater applications
- Vs SMSL A10A: There was an immediate change in soundstage and clarity when Starkrimson replaced the SMSL
- Vs Peachtree Nova: Starkrimson offered a riveting sound presentation, as opposed to the Peachtree Nova, which was less bold, but somewhat more nuanced
- Vs Class AB amp up to $3,000: Starkrimson has better noise control, accuracy, and transparency
Takeaway: The Starke Sound amplifier is a simple unit which produces a clean sound, with good detail and power. This amplifier is a great choice for audiophiles looking for a high-quality listening experience.
Video review
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Truly neutral amplifier that adds nothing and takes away nothing from the music as recorded
- Loads of headroom even on demanding speakers and plenty of power for bass, with an output of 250/500 watts (500/1000 watts peak) into 8Ω/4Ω respectively
- Dynamics and speed are incredible due to the amp's ability to masterfully control the drivers
- Great sound quality, fully balanced, and has a neutral tone
- Great build quality and easy to integrate
Product Considerations
- May not correct flaws in a system's sound unless those flaws are related to a lack of power
- The amps were not perfect with the Magnepan LRS+ without a subwoofer, though this was more a reflection of the LRS+ speakers
- RCA to XLR adapters may be needed depending on the preamp used, as some preamps may not have XLR outputs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Ultra Premium version has more power, extra headroom, and expanded dynamics, compared to the Starkrimson Mono Premium
- The Ultra Monos leave the integrated power of the Marantz in the dust, both in power and consequently dynamics
- The Java Hi-Fi is tonally similar, though with quite a bit less power
- With Magnepan LRS+ speakers, the Viva Solistino had more midrange and low-end body
Takeaway: The Starkrimson Mono Ultra Premium amplifier is a neutral and powerful amp that will let speakers shine. It provides great sound quality and dynamics, making it a solid choice for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
It 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. Want to hear all of the intricate details in your music that have always been there, but you couldn't quite hear them before? Then the GaN 1 is for you!
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
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Giant Killer Galion TS A75 Power Amp
Why is this called a giant killer? 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.
High current design
Sure, it is only 75w, but there is so much power and control with the TS A75 that you might mistake it for a 200w amplifier instead. We designed the TS A75 to deliver quality watts over quantity watts. This amp will grip your bass drivers with authority and control.
Dynamic Bass
With two 200W toroidal transformers and 20 capacitors, giving a total of 200k uf of capacitance bank for both channels, while most affordable amplifiers have about 40k uf, the bass on the TS A75 will make you wonder if you even need to turn on your subwoofer. Not only is the bass impactful and gut-punching, but it is also tight and fast.
Airy Holographic 3D Soundstage
The airy 3D soundstage of the TS A75 is so good that it can even challenge tube-integrated amps. If you have been curious about what audiophiles mean when they talk about this mysterious 'air' in the soundstage, you no longer need to feel left out because the TS A75 has so much air that it can rival expensive amplifiers. Having an airy soundstage is one of the main advantages of the TS A75 current feedback design over the voltage feedback design.
High-Quality Build
The TS A75 custom chassis and big heatsink were designed to keep the unit cool. As a result, the amplifier barely runs warm, which means the capacitors will have a longer lifespan. In addition, we built the amp to have a thick chassis, so you don't have to worry about stacking your preamp on top.
True High Resolution
You might have heard of this audiophile joke, "My system is so resolving that I can hear a pin dropping." Although this is an exaggeration, high-end systems are more detailed than entry-level systems, and you can hear everything effortlessly. The TS A75 will allow you to hear the pin dropping. You will hear things in the recording you have never heard before. The saying, 'A veil has been lifted,' is how you will feel with the TS A75.
Midrange clarity
Besides the sparkling top-end detail, one of the things that will catch your attention right away is the midrange clarity. The saying, 'I can hear the vocal chords of the singer,' is not a dream with this amplifier. Never before have we seen this level of clarity with an affordable amplifier.
Extreme Dynamic Contrast
One thing you will notice right away with the TS A75 is its incredible dynamic contrast. Highs extend further up, the bass hits lower and harder, and the swing from quiet to loud passages seems instantaneous. The TS A75 is an exciting amp to listen to, especially if you are into classical music, where there is significant variation in dynamics.
True Balanced Circuit
The TS A75 features a genuine XLR balanced design. When using a long interconnect cable with the TS A75, opt for XLR connections to experience reduced noise and a darker background.
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
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
- Delivers a neutral presentation overall
- Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
- The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
- Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
- Only has a single line-level RCA-style input
Product Considerations
- Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
- High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
- Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
- Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage
Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean and well-focused sound with a good soundstage
- Good sense of depth and soundstage, with lifelike and detailed vocals and instruments
- Very clean signal with low noise
- Excellent build quality with a solid, all-metal construction
- Three balanced inputs (XLR or TRS)
Product Considerations
- Lacks RCA inputs, limiting connectivity for some users
- Some reviewers felt that the sound lacked dynamics and energy compared to other amplifiers
- Highs are detailed, but could be a problem depending on the speaker selection
- Separate 12-volt trigger leads could be a hassle in some setups
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3 Monos, the B200s deliver a slightly wider soundstage and better resolution of detail
- Vs Schiit Audio Aegir Classic monoblocks, the B200 delivers clean transparent and spacious sound, micro detail and resolution is a bit better with better separation between the notes
Takeaway: The Topping B200 monoblock amplifiers offer a clean and detailed sound with excellent build quality, making them a good option for audiophiles seeking a high-performance, small-footprint amplifier setup Their balanced inputs and powerful output make them a versatile addition to any serious listening environment
Video review
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers 'maximum bang for the buck' sonic performance, uniquely useful features, and Parasound's renowned reliability
- Has a fairly neutral sound that leans towards the forward side
- Delivers great power for the dollar and is well made
- The midrange is very clean and articulate
- The bass is very tight, quick, and clean
- The noise floor may be noticeable with speakers of very high power efficiency (96 DB or higher)
- May sound a little forward in the treble with certain speakers
Product Considerations
- The noise floor may be noticeable with speakers of very high power efficiency (96 DB or higher)
- The amplifier may sound a little forward in the treble with certain speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Parasound Zamp V3, the 275 V2 improves on the Zamp V3 in every way, except for size
- Vs Parasound HCA-1200, the NewClassic 275 v.2 may have sounded a tad sweeter than the Parasound HCA-1200, however, it is so subtle it was difficult to distinguish between the two power amplifiers
- Vs Quicksilver Audio tube monoblocks, the NC 275 V2 amplifier provided a direct comparison to the tube amplifiers
- Vs Halcro amplifiers, the NC 275 V2 gave up some control and pitch definition in the bass notes
Takeaway: The NC 275 V2 is a versatile amplifier that offers great value and solid audio performance for both standalone stereo systems and complex audio distribution setups. It is well-built and has a neutral sound signature, making it suitable for a variety of speakers.
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