Carina GaN

Brand details peachtreeaudio.com

Specifications

Power Output: 200 watts per channel
Digital Inputs: 5 (including USB-C)
Bluetooth: v5
DAC Chips: Two ESS 9068 (dual mono)
Digital Audio Support: Up to 768k PCM and 512k DSD
Headphone Output: 4.4mm T/R/R/R/S balanced and 1/4" unbalanced
Analog Input: Configurable as Phono (MM), AUX or Home Theater Bypass
Finishes: High gloss mocha or piano black

Description

The Carina GaN is a 200 watt-per-channel integrated amplifier incorporating the revolutionary Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology introduced in the revolutionary Peachtree GaN 1. The Carina GaN provides a musical path to your speakers that is remarkably short, direct and pure. Want to hear all of the intricate details in your music that have always been there but you couldn't quite hear them before? That is exactly what the Carina GaN does that other amplifiers fall short of.

The Carina GaN is a 200 watts-per-channel integrated amplifier incorporating the revolutionary GaN-FET technology found in the Peachtree GaN 1. It provides a musical path to your speakers that is remarkably direct and artifact-free. Want to hear all of the intricate details in your music that have always been there but you couldn't quite hear before? The Carina GaN is for YOU! It accepts 5 digital inputs including Bluetooth plus an analog input switchable between MM phono and AUX and will drive virtually any speaker with authority, dynamics and finesse.

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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:

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Carina 150

Positioning: The entry-level integrated amplifier in Peachtree Audio's lineup.
Description: Offers a robust 150 watts per channel, making it ideal for small to medium-sized rooms with high-sensitivity or bookshelf speakers. Features dual-mono ESS 9068 DACs, which provide excellent sound quality and detail, setting it apart from other models like the Carina GaN that focus on different amplification technologies.

GaN1

Positioning: A standalone power amplifier designed for users who prioritize simplicity and high performance.
Description: Uses GaN-FET technology, offering a clean and direct signal path that enhances audio fidelity. Unlike the Carina series, which includes integrated amplifiers with DACs, the GaN1 focuses on delivering power and clarity without additional processing.

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Avg. Product Price

$2,501-$5,000

Used For Sale

Available (Scroll Down)

Brand Popularity

117

of 900+

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Top 50 Brand

Top 250 Brand

Products Listed

Founding Year

2007

Our take on the brand

Peachtree Audio, a popular entry-level hifi brand, delivers Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their amplifiers, making Class D sound more like Class A with a richer midrange.

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What if you spend more?

Java Hi-Fi

Integrated (Single)

8995

Reviews

1ETI Research RCA connectors 2ETI Research speaker binding posts 3Solid 8mm anodised aluminium front panel 4CNC-machined solid wood outer case with luxury real wood veneers 5Innovative inverted PCB assembly for vibration and resonance control of audio circuit 6Dimensions: 44 cm x 41.5 cm x 13 cm (w/d/h) 7Weight: 9.5kgs (21 lbs)

Java HiFi stands out for using GaN FET transistors in their Class D amplifiers and LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) technology in their preamp stage, with the latter controlling volume through varying light intensity for a purer audio path. Their amplifiers deliver high power with remarkably low distortion while challenging the typical limitations of Class D technology, producing a natural, un-electronic sound signature that rivals more expensive Class A/B designs.

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Our summary

Watts Into 4ohms: 401W+

GaN FET

Product Strengths

Clean, neutral, and transparent sound signature that neither adds nor takes away from the source material, ensuring high fidelity music reproduction
Excellent built-in DAC using dual Burr-Brown PCM1794A chips, comparable to some standalone DACs
Well-implemented built-in MM phono stage, outperforming entry-level outboard phono stages and suitable for higher-end MM cartridges
Gorgeous casework with customizable finish options, blending wood and metal for an elegant appearance
High power output (200W into 8 ohms, 400W into 4 ohms) capable of driving a wide range of speakers with ease
Single Shot only has single-ended RCA inputs, the Double Shot variant is needed for balanced inputs

Product Considerations

The built-in phono stage lacks loading and gain options, potentially limiting compatibility with some moving coil cartridges
The DAC section is USB input only and might not be as keen on very high sample rates (above 192kHz)
Some reviewers would like to see a COAX digital input
The lights on the front panel might be too bright for some listeners, even though there is a dimmer switch

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

Vs Ayre 8-Series separates: Ayre provided a greater sense of dimensional fullness
Vs Leben CS600: Leben coaxes more emotion, because it places more emphasis on tone color and body

Takeaway: The Java Hi-Fi Single Shot is a beautifully designed, all-in-one integrated amplifier that delivers a neutral and transparent sound, suitable for those who appreciate high-fidelity audio and want a streamlined system. Its versatility and excellent built-in components make it a worthwhile investment for a high-quality audio experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Enleum

AMP-23R

6250

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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Our summary

Watts Into 4ohms: 31W-50W

Watts Into 8ohms: 5W-30W

Headphone Output

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.

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Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Feliks Audio

Envy

7345

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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Our summary

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.

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Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Naim

Uniti Nova

6899

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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Our summary

Watts Into 8ohms: 51W-100W

Class: AB

Headphone Output

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.

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Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

What competes at this price?

SU-G700M2

2899

Released

2021

A full digital amp capable of reproducing extremely pure and dynamic sound, the SU-G700M2 Stereo Integrated Amplifier has inherited Technics full-digital core amplifier technologies such as the JENO Engine (Jitter Elimination and Noise-Shaping Optimization) for highest signal precision free of jitter and distortion, and LAPC (Load Adaptive Phase Calibration) for optimum matching to any speaker.

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Our Summary

Watts Into 8ohms: 51W-100W

Watts Into 4ohms: 101W-200W

Class: D

Product Strengths

High level of clarity, where the musicians stand out in their own space, and their instruments sound surprisingly real
Sound is balanced, cultured, friendly, and neutral
Strong bass with definition that fits neatly into the mix without dominating and good power in the lower frequencies
Smooth mids with an airy presentation resulting in a spacious feel
The remote control is full-featured and easy to use

Product Considerations

High frequencies may reveal errors in the recording chain, showing pre-ringing in older recordings
The internal phono amplifier dampens the excitement
Some find the mids would start to harden at ultimate response
Has high noise on the power supply side

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

JENO Engine and LAPC are the same on both models, but the SU-R1000 has two separate power supply circuits, independent left and right channel circuits, while the SU-G700M2 has one, MOSFET rather than GaN FET output-stage transistor, Active Distortion Cancelling Technology
The SU-R1000's Intelligent Phono EQ is a digital/analog hybrid with DSP, while the SU-G700M2 has a standard analog phono stage
The standalone Denafrips converter had a slight edge, with a larger soundstage and improved texture and resolution of instruments and voices

Takeaway: The Technics SU-G700M2 is an interesting amplifier due to its technology and unique sound signature. It offers clarity and balanced sound, providing a glimpse into the ultra-high-end audio experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

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.

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.

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Our Summary

Class: D

Balanced

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

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

Uniti Atom Headphone Edition

Naim

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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Our Summary

Headphone-Only Amplifier

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

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

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.

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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Our Summary

Watts Into 8ohms: 51W-100W

Watts Into 4ohms: 101W-200W

Class: AB

Balanced

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.

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Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer

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.

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

Watts Into 4ohms: 101W-200W

Class: AB

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.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Julian Shapiro

ExtremeHiFi Writer