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

  • In-pole design and Class A operation provides a practical amount of power from 25 watts
  • Delivers a musically fluent and tonally rich experience
  • Transparent across the band, not emphasizing the midrange
  • Makes cheaper speakers sound more expensive, an 'endgame combination' with some speakers
  • Made in Italy with most components sourced from Italy, has in-house manufacturing including paint and metal shops
  • Streaming system may be limited with some peripheral hardware, specifically NAS devices that are not SAMBA compatible

Product Considerations

  • Limited power handling, requires efficient speakers (over 88dB, ideally over 90dB)
  • Bass extension is not as great as more powerful solid-state amplifiers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Kinki Studio EXP 7 preamp and monoblock amps: Pathos has slightly better refinement and low volume performance, Pathos is more holographic while Kinki Studio is more cool and open
  • Vs Pathos Classic One mark three tube hybrid: The InPoL Remix is more refined, holographic, and expansive in the midrange, but the Classic One has more power and can play louder

Takeaway: The InPoL Remix MkII is a unique amplifier that delivers a pleasing and engaging listening experience thanks to its special design. It offers very good build quality and design.

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

InPoLRemix MkII

reviews

[{"title":"Pathos InPol Remix MkII integrated amplifier","link":"https://www.stereophile.com/content/pathos-inpol-remix-mkii-integrated-amplifier","source":"Stereophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Pathos Inpol Remix MkII HiDac EVO integrated amplifier","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/pathos-inpol-remix-mkii-hidac-evo-integrated-amplifier","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2017"},{"title":"Paths of Glory: PATHOS InPol Remix MKII Integrated Amplifier","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=532pHNOftt4","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Pathos InPol Remix MkII w/ Upscale Audio's Kevin Deal","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jwEru9qnwY","source":"Upscale Audio High Fidelity","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"The BEST Amp I've had so far! Pathos Inpol Remix MKII Review!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtFENuq3knE","source":"Nemo Propaganda","datePublished":"2024"}]
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: Stereo integrated amplifier Pure class A – double INPOL technology – fully balanced – digital Bias/gain set technology
  • Output power: 2 x 25W@ 8 Ohm
  • Frequency response: 2Hz – 150KHz ± 0.5db
  • Input sensitivity: 470mVRMS
  • Input impedance: 47KOhm
  • Output polarity: Selectable by remote control
  • Volume regulator: 2 x Burr Brown PGA2310 (180 steps 0,5dB)
  • THD: 0,1% @1W
  • S/N Ratio: > 100dB
  • Gain: 31 db Unbalanced 37 db Balanced
  • Output impedance: 0,9Ω
  • Dimensions: 370mm (D) x 280mm (W) x 180mm (H)
  • Weight: 15,5Kg
  • Headphone Output power: 2,65W @ 32 Ω
  • Headphone Output impedance: 0,45Ω
  • Headphone Max output level: 9,6 VRMS
  • Headphone Frequency response: 2Hz – 400KHz ± 0,5db
  • Headphone THD: 0,025%
InPoLRemix MkII is a fully-balanced pure Class A integrated amplifier using the latest generation double-InPol circuitry. The digital bias/gain set technology with intelligent control is entrusted to the same microprocessor which regulates the volume, thus guaranteeing the performance of the amplifier itself and its ability to drive the loudspeakers efficiently.
InPoLRemix MkII is a fully-balanced pure Class A integrated amplifier using the latest generation double-InPol circuitry. The digital bias/gain set technology with intelligent control is entrusted to the same microprocessor which regulates the volume, thus guaranteeing the performance of the amplifier itself and its ability to drive the loudspeakers efficiently. Thanks to the (optional) HiDac Mk2 converter, music lovers who want the best from their digital sources will find their demands fully met.

InPoL, sonic personality InPoL (Inseguitore Pompa Lineare – Linear Pump Follower) is a system patented by Pathos Acoustics which has enjoyed great success and won many awards. Inpol devices have a special sonic personality obtainable only by means of this particular circuit design – fully balanced in Class A using a single solid state component in follower configuration, with high current gain and with voltage gain together.

The valve amplifier amplifies the input signal voltage and InPoL supplies the current to drive the loudspeakers without any further amplification. In this way the signal is entrusted to the valves and becomes a true copy of the original, with all the quality, purity and harmonic content of the original. This technology allows an increase in the theoretical output in pure Class A of between 25% and 50% together with a low output impedance which is fundamental fo...
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
$5,001-$10,000
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
ampsandsound
Nautilus
11000
11000
/
7
Reviews

With the inclusion the new tube cage, the transformer cover was raised 2" to allow the cage to fully protect any KT-120/KT-150 tube. The resulting metal work and power supply changes have yielded our quietest Nautilus yet. Many still love the sleek lower profile look of the Classic Nautilus and as such we allow you to order your Nautiluswith the original metal work style or the Rev 2. The Classic Nautilus will additionally save you $1000 on the purchase.

The Story of the Nautilus is born of the same process that brought the Zions. We set out to build my private amps apart from ampsandsound. These were to be mine without branding and never to leave for demos. All too often, my own listening space was sacrificed for the need for demo stock. I chose the HK Cit II as my inspiration point. From that seed came my own Cit II Monos build on turrets just like the best amps of the golden age.

The Nautilus brings the dual-mono layout onto a single chassis. We started with our most versatile circuit, the Mogwai, and went about creating two separate amps that share a single chassis. 2 Power Transformers, Separate Power Supplies, Chokes, and input transformers. The amps are built with separate turret boards, with the shared component being the input tube, volume control, and outputs.

The Nautilus is a classic and decidedly prosaic design, as it employs turrets and point-to-point wiring & there is no silicone, ICs, or regulators. We consider this a standard-bearer of purest audio with an American sensibility. The Nautilus is built in a way few modern amplifiers are. This is not due to intrinsic inferiority, but rather it is impossible to rush and is incredibly expensive to produce.

The Nautilus has been described as a tube integrated amp for personal audio users. We mean by this, the Nautilus allows for five separate impedances to be selected for system matching and has a pair of 8ohm 5 way binding posts. The speaker vs. headphone output is selected with a small toggle switch on the back of the amp.

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
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Product Strengths

  • Five individualized outputs with different impedances
  • Custom wound ultra-high quality output transformers provide excellent frequency extension and a flat response
  • Engaging audio components offer superior sound quality using proven theories, solid engineering, and quality manufacturing, all taking place in the USA
  • Brings out the very best qualities in all of the headphones tested, providing the best presentation ever heard from the Aeolus
  • Build quality is a step-up from other amplifiers

Product Considerations

  • The most expensive quarter inch plugs you can get, have locks on them, which can be annoying
  • Unplug headphones before switching to speaker outputs
  • Weighs around 68 pounds and around 93 pounds shipped in its large pelican style case—it is heavy
  • Can clip when used with speakers if pushed too hard

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Nautilus sounds better than the ZMF Pendant Headphone Tube Amplifier and the Mogwai OG Tube Amplifier in every regard
  • Nautilus is even more comprehensive and expressive through the powerful, well-controlled, tonal density that is detailed and rich in nuance—it has more extension and top-notch resolution

Takeaway: The Nautilus seems to be a versatile amplifier that brings out the best in headphones and speakers. It's built with quality parts and offers a lush and detailed sound experience for audiophiles who want to enjoy music to the fullest.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
Western Electric
91E
14999
14999
/
5
Reviews

Double the Performance Trouble-free, noise-free, and double the power of traditional 300B amps. Made possible by patented circuit design. A New Classic We’re proud to continue a legacy of quality, American manufacturing with innovative new features. Ships with Tubes The 91E ships with new production 300Bs, the most popular electron tubes in the world. Made in the USA.

Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
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Product Strengths

  • New patented design SCS (source current steering) allows the amplifier to have a fabulous bottom end without affecting the glorious midrange
  • Proprietary noise reduction system eliminates noise that can be inherent in a single-ended design
  • Circuit protects the 300Bs and keeps them in their safe operating range, so there is no chance of damaging the tube or having a shortened life
  • More power from this amp than a traditional 300B, it's the difference in presentation
  • It has Bluetooth, phono stage (moving coil and moving magnet), and wireless remote control

Product Considerations

  • Instructions could be a little clearer about installing the 300Bs
  • More warm-up is needed for each listening session than originally allowed
  • The 91E was designed for operation with Western Electric manufactured 300B electron tubes
  • The brands and specifications of the capacitors, resistors, transformers, internal wires, RCA jacks, switches, and binding posts are not disclosed

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs WE 91A: 91E retains what's best about the early WE 91A—its delicacy, bloom, openness, and tonal magic—and adds modern improvements

Takeaway: The Western Electric 91E is a uniquely designed amplifier providing great sound with modern features like Bluetooth and remote control, pushing what a 300B tube amplifier can achieve. It's a great option for audiophiles wanting to step up from other tube amplifier sounds.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Jadis
I300
16900
16900
/
3
Reviews

In the world of audiophiles, there is purist group militating for simplicity in tube amplification systems focusing on the use of the tube designed in the early days of tube technology: the directly heated triodes of which the most famous is the 300B. I300 is built around a simple 300B push-pull without feedback which offers unequalled musiciality of this tube.

After the preamplification using an ECC82, the signal feeds a phase inverter (called Schmitt) followed by 6SN7 triodes sufficient to drive the 300B.

The power supply is another strong point. In addition to the fact that each stage has its own power supply, particular care has been taken with the 300Bs themselves.

As direct heated triodes, the heater is the cathode. This requires a very "clean" power supply with no less than seven separate power circuits.

As for all our devices, transformers are designed and manufactured in our workshop. The one dedicated to the power supply, uses a magnetic circuit EI M6X of a design which gives a very stable operation, without noise and with a reduced overheating.

The output ones use a double CV38 magnetic circuit built according to our standards. The I300 is the only integrated with such an output transformer.

A design mode that allows the device to appear much more powerful than its 10W may suggest!

As far as design is concerned, the I300 remains faithful to our range and has a compact design. The 2mm thick 304L chassis easily supports the weight of the other elements. For a better comfort of use it is equipped with a remote control.

Listening to the I300, it's all about accuracy, subtlety and musicality of the 300B which magnify your tracks. No doubt it will delight demanding audiophiles triode lover!

Jadis Electronics is renowned for their meticulous handcrafting of tube amplifiers, with a unique process of hand-winding output transformers that's integral to their signature sound. Their tube amplifiers deliver unusually high power outputs without distortion even at maximum levels, setting them apart in the tube amplifier market.
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Product Strengths

  • Wonderful mid-band presentation that comes from the 300B tubes
  • Bass is extended and controlled
  • Provides detail and insight into recordings without being piercing
  • Soundstaging is wide, deep, and natural sounding
  • Every stage in the amplifier has its own power supply, and particular care has been taken with the 300Bs themselves

Product Considerations

  • The included remote is functional, but not in keeping with the quality of the amplifier itself
  • It is very heavy, weighing 40kg
  • The high polished chrome and gold accents may divide opinion
  • Those looking for an amplifier that is absolutely neutral in its presentation may want to listen to something else

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Merrill Thor amps, the Jadis I300, to the reviewer's ears, is a far superior amp for listening and putting a big grin on your face

Takeaway: The Jadis i300 is built superbly and delivers a balanced sound with detail and emotional connection, making it a joy to listen to. It is a refined performer across the audio spectrum and with all kinds of music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Jadis Electronics is renowned for their meticulous handcrafting of tube amplifiers, with a unique process of hand-winding output transformers that's integral to their signature sound. Their tube amplifiers deliver unusually high power outputs without distortion even at maximum levels, setting them apart in the tube amplifier market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
Riviera
AIC10-Bal
19800
19800
/
3
Reviews
Riviera Labs designs amplifiers that match the human ear's natural distortion patterns, focusing on subjective listening experiences rather than technical specifications. Their products use a hybrid design combining tubes for signal processing and solid-state components for power stages, with the unique ability to switch between pure Class A and Class AB operation in their LEVANTE integrated amplifier.
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Product Strengths

  • Restores faith in humanity during an age dominated by digital devices
  • Outstanding product crafted with high-quality metalwork, including a thick engraved panel, heat sinks that match the rounded edges, and internal components that are hand-soldered onto double-sided, 2 mm thick circuit boards
  • Hybrid amplifier using a dual triode in the preamp stage and Mosfets in the output stage, offering the possibility to customize the sound by experimenting with different valves
  • Offers unparalleled control over bass and extension, the mids are incredibly authentic, while the highs are enchanting in their golden glow, also boasts impressive attack, dynamics, and rhythm, along with remarkable speed
  • Exceptional analogue amplifier primarily designed for high-quality sound through headphones—that also excels as a speaker stereo amplifier

Product Considerations

  • Expensive
  • Speaker declared power output is just 10W/8 ohms, which is enough to power a pair of medium-sensitivity speakers (88dB) in a small room if you don't push it too hard

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Pass Labs XA30.8: Low bass was a bit bloomier, and that its virtual needle on the elasticity-to-damping metre sat slightly deeper in the elasticity zone

Takeaway: The Riviera Labs AIC-10 BAL is a high-quality, all-analog hybrid amplifier that works great with headphones and speakers and is designed for a very pleasurable listening experience, built with human hearing in mind. This is the right choice if one wants the best sound possible.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Riviera Labs designs amplifiers that match the human ear's natural distortion patterns, focusing on subjective listening experiences rather than technical specifications. Their products use a hybrid design combining tubes for signal processing and solid-state components for power stages, with the unique ability to switch between pure Class A and Class AB operation in their LEVANTE integrated amplifier.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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What competes at this price?

Enleum
AMP-23R
6250
/
Released
2021
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.
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Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Addictive sound signature, unlike any other amp, with otherworldly instrument and voice reproduction
  • Delivers serious magic with Fleetwood Deville and Klipsch Heritage speakers, revealing obscure details and creating a massive soundstage
  • Dynamics for days
  • Combines the qualities of a nice SET amp without the downsides, like noise or tube replacement
  • Exceptional build quality and design with high-quality parts
  • Only has two RCA inputs, no XLR balanced connections

Product Considerations

  • Heavy speaker cables can cause the amp to tilt
  • The volume dial functions as a gain dial, which may be different than what some users are accustomed to
  • May not be suitable for hard-to-drive speakers in the 85db range that dip into 2–4 ohms

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The AMP23R offers more texture, layering, mid-bass, and vocal presence than Nagra INT
  • The AMP23R is more organic, ethereal, and dynamic than Kinki Studio EXM1
  • It sounds better than the Vinnie Rossi L2iSE, so long as the speakers are easy to drive
  • The Enleum has more delicacy and finesse than Pass Labs and Cary Audio
  • The AMP23R stacks up with the finest gear such as ampsandsound Bryce monoblocks
  • Pass Labs First Watt SIT-3 offers a bit more organic, warmer presentation

Takeaway: The Enleum AMP-23R is a small but mighty integrated amplifier with a unique and addictive sound signature, and it is built with high-quality components. It's a great choice for those with sensitive speakers looking for a reference-quality system in a compact package.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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ampsandsound
Bigger Ben
5728
/
Released
2021
The Bigger Ben started life as 2nd channel adaptation of the Mogwai. It employed huge transformers and was a Class A beast. With the development of the Mogwai SE, the Bigger Ben became redundant as the Mogwai SE is such an overachiever.
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ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very powerful amp with crazy headroom, capable of driving most headphones, including those that need a lot of power, and can grow with you as different headphones
  • Delivers clarity, separation, detail, and impact, making every pair of headphones sound better
  • Multiple impedance outputs allow dialing in the best sound for a given pair of headphones
  • Super black background—very low noise floor
  • A ton of different tubes can be rolled, including EL34s, KT66s, KT67s, KT88s, 6550s, and KT90s, making it very versatile and allowing customization of the sound to exact taste

Product Considerations

  • Only one input via a pair of RCA connectors
  • Requires a pre-amplifier or DAC with volume control if obtained without the volume pot
  • May lack convenience features because of ampsandsound's minimalist philosophy
  • Can be very heavy

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Linear Tube Audio's Z10e: Z10e seemed more focused and brightly lit through the midrange

Takeaway: The Bigger Ben is a hugely versatile and powerful amplifier that could be an end-game amp, especially if you want to experiment with tube rolling. Its sound is detailed, clear, and engaging, making it a great choice for anyone who loves listening to music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Unison Research
Simply 845
9999
/
Released
2023
The New Simply 845 ranks at the top of Unison Research's line of integrated tube amplifiers, second only to the historic ABSOLUTE 845. The SIMPLY 845, like the ABSOLUTE 845, also employs the famous 845 direct-heated triodes, tubes well known for remarkable durability and extraordinary sonic qualities.
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Unison Research specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state technology, with their flagship Unico DM featuring a pure class A double tube stage paired with POWER MOSFET components. Their Black Edition series, including the S6 and Simply Italy models, integrates modern digital connectivity like USB and SPDIF while maintaining their signature tube-based design philosophy.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Wide and deep soundstage, with a depth extending as far as 70 feet in one test
  • Music reproduction is natural and realistic, creating a sense of instruments and voices being present in the room
  • High frequencies and cymbals shimmer and crash realistically
  • Impeccably constructed and manufactured with original circuit solutions
  • Capable of drama, delicacy, and danger which transcends reproduction — turning the act of listening into a full-fledged experience

Product Considerations

  • Selector knob on top of the unit is difficult to access when the tube cage is installed
  • Speakers need to be a good match for the amplifier's 23 watts of power
  • Bass was shy and ill-defined when used with the Dynaudio Contour 60i speakers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Conrad Johnson Premier 10 & 11A, the Simply 845 has a wider and deeper soundstage and better reproduction of high frequencies and cymbals
  • Compared to PrimaLuna (top-of-the-line), the Simply 845 sounds better sonically
  • Compared to Line Magnetic Audio LM-845iA Integrated Amp, the Simply 845 does delicate better

Takeaway: The Simply 845 is a revealing integrated amplifier that makes music sound magical and is an excellent choice, especially for horn speaker lovers. This amplifier transforms speakers into something wonderful and will enhance the music experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Unison Research specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state technology, with their flagship Unico DM featuring a pure class A double tube stage paired with POWER MOSFET components. Their Black Edition series, including the S6 and Simply Italy models, integrates modern digital connectivity like USB and SPDIF while maintaining their signature tube-based design philosophy.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Unison Research
Sinfonia
6499
/
Released
Part of our classic line of tube amplifiers that include the Preludio and the Performance, the Sinfonia integrated amplifier retains the technical approach, sound and beautiful aesthetics found in the rest of the line. While the Sinfonia offers both stunning looks and equally stunning sound, it is also extremely reliable due to its unique design solutions, quality materials and the highest of build quality standards.
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Unison Research specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state technology, with their flagship Unico DM featuring a pure class A double tube stage paired with POWER MOSFET components. Their Black Edition series, including the S6 and Simply Italy models, integrates modern digital connectivity like USB and SPDIF while maintaining their signature tube-based design philosophy.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Refinement and smoothness in sound
  • Exceptional build and finish, including exquisite woodwork
  • Seductive midrange and overall musicality
  • The Sinfonia has a romantic, addictive sound that's better suited to classical music

Product Considerations

  • Not the last word in slam
  • Needs careful system partnering to sound its best
  • Dynamics were very good, although not exactly of the same caliber as with the ModWright preamp and amp
  • When pushed to the extremes, during the most dynamic passages, the Sinfonia began to reach its limit—compressing gently and giving up some of the low frequency control

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Sinfonia offers a smoother, warmer, and more seductive sound, while the S6 amplifier sounds a little 'faster' and more linear

Takeaway: The Sinfonia is a fine amplifier with a beautiful build that delivers a refined and smooth sound. It's a good choice for enjoying music and will make your eyes smile with its hand-made Italian design.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Unison Research specializes in hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state technology, with their flagship Unico DM featuring a pure class A double tube stage paired with POWER MOSFET components. Their Black Edition series, including the S6 and Simply Italy models, integrates modern digital connectivity like USB and SPDIF while maintaining their signature tube-based design philosophy.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Triode
Evolution
8385
/
Released
2021
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Triode amplifiers are known for their unique ability to reproduce music with a harmonic aura and immersive bloom that fills the room, setting them apart through their distinctive "spark of life" that creates a finely textured, highly resolved sound image. The brand offers customization options for output transformers in their amplifiers, which are built with premium components like Mundorf silver oil film coupling capacitors and Hashimoto Electric output transformers from the coveted '60s-era Sansui AU-111 integrated.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional build quality and aesthetics
  • Delivers a robust 40 watts per channel into 8 ohms
  • Demonstrates remarkable frequency handling, extending from 17Hz to 63kHz (-2dB)
  • Precise bias adjustment with built-in meter
  • Superb control, power, and effortless flow

Product Considerations

  • Relatively heavy at 30kg
  • May require occasional tube maintenance
  • Power output might not suit all speaker combinations
  • A softer 300B glow was not present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Triode as amp offered a similar kind of finely grained nearly neutral sound as the Audionet
  • No amp has bettered the Riviera Levante integrated amp in dimensional quality
  • Parts cost plus the Evolution comes with two Western Electric 300Bs that run $1499 per matched pair on the open market, while the Triode TRZ-300W sports four Triode-branded 300Bs

Takeaway:

The Triode Evolution is a high-end tube amp that delivers music with power and clarity. Those who value musical authenticity and appreciate the warmth of tube amplification may find it a great fit.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Triode amplifiers are known for their unique ability to reproduce music with a harmonic aura and immersive bloom that fills the room, setting them apart through their distinctive "spark of life" that creates a finely textured, highly resolved sound image. The brand offers customization options for output transformers in their amplifiers, which are built with premium components like Mundorf silver oil film coupling capacitors and Hashimoto Electric output transformers from the coveted '60s-era Sansui AU-111 integrated.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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