Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • Combines musicality of tubes with the drive of solid-state amplification
  • Has a refined, yet entertaining sound with expressive dynamics and good detail resolution
  • Distinctive styling and high build quality
  • The amplifier's midrange is lovely, being subtle, articulate, and well-projected
  • Includes a well-designed DAC and a headphone amplifier that performs better than many stand-alone entry to medium-level models

Product Considerations

  • Some rivals deliver more low-end authority and scale
  • Some of the USB ports and the ethernet connection are not yet active
  • The sound had a sensation of compact, focused timbre in the mid-frequencies, as opposed to the airier ASR Emitter
  • Slightly laid-back, liquid, and warm sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Naim SuperNait 2, the Naim has more grip at the lowest frequencies and greater authority, but the Pathos has more fluidity through the midrange and communicates low-level dynamic shifts with more finesse
  • Compared to the ASR Emitter I Exclusive, the Pathos is less capable in driving capabilities, resulting in a narrower soundstage and less defined lower octaves, but rivals in terms of musicality

Takeaway: The Pathos Classic Remix HiDAC is a well-built and stylish amplifier that offers a blend of tube warmth and solid-state power, making music sound great. With its built-in DAC and headphone amp, it's a complete solution for those seeking top-class sound in their home.

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

Classic Remix

reviews

[{"title":"Pathos Acoustics Classic Remix Integrated Amplifier / Headphone Amp w/DAC","link":"https://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/0115/Pathos_Acoustics_Classic_Remix_Integrated_Amplifier_Review.htm","source":"Enjoy the Music","datePublished":""},{"title":"Pathos ClassicRemix HiDAC review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/pathos/classicremix-hidac/review","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2015"},{"title":"Pathos Classic Remix HIDAC MK1 vs MK2","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2AHrf39iPU","source":"Trying things","datePublished":"2022"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Type: Integrated stereo amplifier, fully balanced, Hybrid technology
  • Preamplifier stage: Tube (2x6922 ECC88)
  • Final stage: solid state, bridge mode, class AB
  • Output Power: 2x70 W RMS @ 8 Ω (Both channel driven)
  • Frequency response: 1.5Hz – 200KHz ± 0.5dB
  • Max input voltage: 4.25VRMS
  • Input sensitivity: 500m VRMS
  • Input impedance: 47K Ω
  • THD: 0.025% @ 70W
  • S/N Ratio: > 100dB
  • Power requirements: 250W @ 70W PC / 100W @ zero volume / < 0.5W@standby
  • Headphone Output power: 1.6W @ 32 Ω
  • Headphone Output impedance: 10 Ω
  • Headphone Max output level: 10 V RMS
  • Dimensions: 37cm (W) x 28cm (D) x 17cm (H)
  • Weight: 14Kg / 17.5Kg (packed)
Presented during the last edition of the Munich High-End 2014, the new integrated amplifier of Pathos Acoustics stems from the desire of the company from Vicenza to make a deep renewal of one of the biggest international hits of its history that is the critically acclaimed and award-winning amplifier ClassicOne, which in any case will still remain in its catalog.
Presented during the last edition of the Munich High-End 2014, the new integrated amplifier of Pathos Acoustics stems from the desire of the company from Vicenza to make a deep renewal of one of the biggest international hits of its history that is the critically acclaimed and award-winning amplifier ClassicOne, which in any case will still remain in its catalog. But in the act of thinking about the new ClassicRemix the company becames aware that with the renewal could not miss even a new and more ambitious positioning in the market. In fact, the mission entrusted to the ClassicRemix is to meet the increasingly demanding expectations of the public audiophile and at the same time meet the attention of young people and those who are "just" in love with the Music.

To reach this goal, the company has used first of all the twenty years of experience in hybrid amplifications. By starting from this wealth of knowledge and experience, Pathos has subsequently refined every aspect of the circuitry (as clean as possible) and has made a careful selection of components that must meet the requirements of the highest quality and musicality. The result is then a hybrid device, Class A / B, with a fully balanced circuit and capable of providing a power of 70 + 70W (prudential).

The preamp section has been realized around a pair of valves Electro Harmonix ECC88 – 6922 (double triodes) in a dif...
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:

  • Pathos products, handmade in Italy, feature a distinct aesthetic that blends modern and classic design elements, utilizing materials like aluminum and wood in visually striking ways.
  • The brand's patented InPol (Inseguitore Pompa Lineare) technology combines the sonic characteristics of tubes and solid-state, aiming for a natural and engaging musical reproduction.

Inpol2 MKII

  • Positioning: Positioned as an evolution of the classic Inpol2, offering enhanced power and connectivity.
  • Description: Features increased power output on 4Ω loads and improved power supply. Its dual-mono configuration and optional HiDac Mk2 integration for digital sources set it apart from the T.T., which lacks these features. This model is suitable for users who prioritize digital connectivity and a balanced soundstage without needing the highest power output.

T.T.

  • Positioning: A classic model in the Pathos lineup, known for its unique design and sound signature.
  • Description: Features pure Class A operation and absence of feedback, providing a warm and transparent sound that is perfect for small to medium rooms. Unlike the Inpol2 MKII, focuses on simplicity and analog purity.

InPower MK2

  • Positioning: Designed for high-end performance, offering significant power and flexibility for advanced setups.
  • Description: Delivers 120W output at 8Ω, making it suitable for large rooms and demanding speakers. Its adjustable gain feature allows for precise control in bi-amped systems, a capability not found in the Adrenalin.

Adrenalin

  • Positioning: The flagship model, representing the pinnacle of Pathos' InPoL technology.
  • Description: Offers a remarkable 200W output in pure Class A, providing exceptional power and fidelity for the most demanding audio setups. Its double InPoL configuration and zero feedback design ensure a pristine soundstage, surpassing the InPower MK2 in raw power and sonic purity.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
6
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
205
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
18
Founding Year
1994

Our take on the brand

Pathos Acoustics is known for its InPol technology, which combines tube pre-amplification with solid-state amplification to create a distinctive warm yet powerful sound. The brand stands out in the hifi market for its striking visual designs that blend wood and aluminum, while using both tubes and transistors in their amplifiers to achieve their signature sound.

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?

Pathos stands out for two fundamental elements that represent our identity: technological innovation and design philosophy.

The first is INPOL, our exclusive patented technology: a hybrid circuit that combines the warmth and musicality of tubes with the strength and precision of MOSFETs. The tubes shape the sound in terms of amplitude, offering transparency and naturalness, while the MOSFETs provide the current needed to drive the speakers, working in pure Class A, without distortion or feedback. The result is a dynamic, detailed sound that is incredibly faithful to the original. With the evolution of DOUBLE INPOL, this philosophy reaches higher power and even more refined performance, while maintaining the sonic character that defines us.

The second is our choice to remain true to the essence of sound and the true meaning of “Made in Italy.” Every one of our products is designed and built in-house at our facility in Vicenza: from the electronics to the processing of aluminum and wood, to the painting, every phase is closely overseen by our team with artisanal care and obsessive attention to detail. We don’t just build amplifiers: we create unique objects, designed for those who seek an authentic, thrilling listening experience, without compromise, where beauty, technique, and passion coexist in perfect balance.

What's your approach to customer support?

In general, the ideal procedure is for the end user to contact their retailer or local distributor, who are always the first points of reference. However, it often happens that customers reach out to us directly: depending on the situation, I either direct them to our partner or assist them personally.

What truly matters to us is that the customer feels listened to and taken care of. That’s why, even remotely, I often personally handle support cases: not due to a lack of trust in our distributors – with whom we have excellent relationships – but to show that every customer is important to us. We know that our amplifiers have a value that goes beyond the cost: they represent a passion, a conscious choice, often a dream come true. And those who own them have every right to feel in good hands.

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
Anna Letizia
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
Feliks Audio
Envy
7345
7345
/
14
Reviews
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
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Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build quality with a blend of expertly crafted wood and metal, creating a visually striking and durable statement piece
  • Dynamic, rich, and effortless sound with excellent detail, texture, and the right amount of tube magic
  • Powerful output capable of driving demanding headphones while maintaining clarity and control
  • Versatile performance with a variety of headphones (dynamic and planar) due to its output transformer design, often improving sound for warm or neutral headphones
  • Value added by its ability to be used as a pre-amplifier in a stereo system

Product Considerations

  • Large size and weight (around 15kg) require ample desk space and sturdy furniture
  • Generates heat, which could be a concern in warmer environments without adequate ventilation
  • Accidental switching of 'On/Off' is possible due to the touch-sensitive bar in the front not being intuitive, so use with care around pets
  • Too powerful for some very sensitive IEMs, potentially resulting in overwhelming sound or audible hiss, though this is not the intended design for the amplifier

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN Susvara, Envy empowers Susvara's natural presentation while giving it all the dynamics and slam needed
  • Vs Cayin HA-300MkII, Envy exhibits more linear mid-to-high frequencies and offers a more transparent sound, while HA-300MkII has a warmer—more engaging midrange
  • Vs AURIS Headonia 2A3, Envy performs at the same level, with technically incredibly strong aspects
  • Vs Octave V 16, Envy completely demolishes the V 16 when it comes to energy, control, timbre, and resolution
  • Vs Ferrum OOR, Envy is more powerful sounding, while also being more detailed with better tonality

Takeaway:

The Felix Audio Envy is a high-end headphone amplifier for audio enthusiasts who want the best quality sound to bring out the magic in their favorite headphones. Its stunning design and versatile performance make it a worthwhile addition to any serious audiophile setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Luxman
L-507Z
8995
8995
/
11
Reviews

Luxman’s new generation Z series integrated amplifiers. The L-507Z is the debut model heralding our new generation of amplifier products. Featuring our newly developed LIFES amplification feedback engine, we look towards the future of Luxman. This amplifier has realized a dramatic development in musicality that goes far beyond its class. L-507Z combines advanced technology and sophisticated functionality. Our new, innovative Z series integrated amplifier generation begins with this superb model.

Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
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Product Strengths

  • Delivers music with a very pure, low-grain tonality, not compromised by frequency response or dynamic trickery
  • Beautifully crafted with a traditional, recognizable Luxman aesthetic and excellent build quality
  • Has enough power to drive a wide range of speakers
  • Possesses a good moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono stage
  • Features the new Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES) amplifier topology

Product Considerations

  • The volume control can be finicky and hard to dial in
  • Some reviewers wished it had separate phono inputs for MM and MC cartridges, instead of a selectable one

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus Hegel H590, the Hegel has more relaxed sound, while the Luxman has a more forward presentation, brilliance and sheen—the Hegel had better bass control
  • The 507Z is a step up from the Luxman L-507UX2 with improved aesthetics, including a new LED display
  • Versus the Luxman L-590II (Class A), the L-590II is slightly warmer, but less dynamic
  • Some 509X owners preferred the Luxman L-507Z

Takeaway: The Luxman L-507Z is a beautiful and well-built amplifier that produces pure, high-quality sound. It has enough power for most speakers and offers versatile features like tone controls and a phono stage, making it a great choice for an all-in-one audio solution.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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What competes at this price?

Pathos
Classic One MKII
3495
/
Released
After having won over the international audiophile community with state-of-the-art reference amplifiers, to conceive a product with a set price point as the main design limit has been a true challenge to Pathos. The Classic One project was initiated to transfer, in a more affordable amplifier, all the know-how and expertise acquired developing reference products. Classic One represents a new standard in its price category: it success fully blends in a single chassis a preamplifier and power amplifier, completely separated from each other and provided with their own individual power supplies.
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Pathos Acoustics is known for its InPol technology, which combines tube pre-amplification with solid-state amplification to create a distinctive warm yet powerful sound. The brand stands out in the hifi market for its striking visual designs that blend wood and aluminum, while using both tubes and transistors in their amplifiers to achieve their signature sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Pathos Classic One Mk II / New Classic One presents a sweet, musically natural sound, especially for a tube/transistor hybrid
  • It offers improved refinement and smoothness compared to the original model, with added linearity between the mid and high range
  • It creates a wider, more focused, and deeper soundstage than its predecessor
  • The amp gets the tone, timbre, and balance of music right, as long as it is played at natural listening levels or lower
  • The aesthetic design of the amplifier is unique and desirable, making it a visually appealing piece of equipment

Product Considerations

  • The bass response is considered dry and controlled, and may not satisfy bass enthusiasts
  • The power output is only 70-watts-a-side
  • The unique design may result in a mismatch with other components, requiring careful system matching

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Pathos Classic One (original) — the New Classic One offers improved refinement and smoothness, a wider soundstage, and better-balanced mids and highs

Takeaway: The Pathos Classic One Mk II / New Classic One offers a musically natural sound with a touch of sweetness, and its improved soundstage makes listening more pleasant. If sonic purity and a unique design are valued, this could be a great addition to an audio setup.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Pathos Acoustics is known for its InPol technology, which combines tube pre-amplification with solid-state amplification to create a distinctive warm yet powerful sound. The brand stands out in the hifi market for its striking visual designs that blend wood and aluminum, while using both tubes and transistors in their amplifiers to achieve their signature sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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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.
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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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Rega
Elicit MK5
3345
/
Released
2022
The all new Elicit MK5 stereo integrated amplifier is designed and built to the highest standard. Housed in our latest custom case to match the rest of the Rega range, the new MK5 builds on previous Rega designs by using our multi-award-winning Class A/B power amplifier circuit to deliver a powerful 105 W per channel into 8 Ω loads (127 W into 6 Ω). Our engineers have designed a new Rega DAC circuit offering digital connectivity and greater integration with a variety of other products. We have taken great care to incorporate a high-quality MM phono stage and the headphone output has been configured such that the speaker switching is performed by the output mute relay to avoid obstructing the signal path.
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Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Ground-breakingly different than its predecessor (Elicit-R) and the Elex R, integrating the Athos sound and signature
  • Combines musicality with a real sense of propulsion
  • Taut, punchy, clear sound with impressive clarity and detail
  • Excellent built-in moving magnet phono stage, delivering enjoyable results across various music genres
  • Internal DAC is of good quality, sitting comfortably beside the analogue line stages in quality, with lively and punchy character, strong detail levels, and dynamic contrasts
  • Lacks USB input or Bluetooth connectivity

Product Considerations

  • May run hotter than usual
  • Can sound a little bright tonally, requiring careful speaker choice
  • Volume control steps on the remote may be too large for precise adjustments
  • Functional looking rather than stylish

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Roksan K2: The Elicit MK5 is a brawny amplifier with a full package for the audiophile journey
  • Vs. Exposure 3510: The Elicit has a decent headphone option and the MM input, while the Exposure would suit if one already has a decent phono stage and a DAC in place
  • Vs. Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x PA-10: While the Edge / PA-10 setup justifies its higher sticker, the Rega Elicit MK5 has a ballsier take on music

Takeaway: The Rega Elicit MK5 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a detailed, clear, and punchy sound, making music sound great and alive. With its integrated DAC and phono stage, it is ready to be the heart of any great listening setup.

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Our take on the brand

Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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