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.
All
Carina X
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Compatible Speakers: 2.5 to 16 Ω
- Output Power: 300W per channel @ 8Ω, 600W per channel @ 4Ω
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: > 114 dB
- Frequency Response: < +/- 0.2 dB (20 Hz to 20 kHz, 8 Ω)
- Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.005%
- Channel Separation: > 100 dB
- Height: 111 mm (4.37 inches)
- Width: 356 mm (14.02 inches)
- Depth: 362 mm (14.25 inches)
- Weight: 15.5 lbs (7.0 kg)
- Shipping Weight: 20.0 lbs (9.1 kg)
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
Select products
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.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Peachtree
What if you spend more?
The reference in Class-D amplification just got even better! The Gato Audio DIA-400S is all about merging the best sound quality with the best and most versatile features.
S is for "Super"
The all new Gato Audio DIA-400S has been thoroughly updated compared to the standard DIA-400. We wanted to get the performance even closer to that of our AMP-150 integrated amplifier but keeping all the versatile features and even adding a high quality aptX Bluetooth receiver. The DIA-400S has not only become one of the best sounding Class-D amplifiers but also the most flexible available.
We changed and improved the electrical circuits and layouts in more than twenty ways, the most significant being:
Optimized mains filter
Improved general and local power supplies
New input stage
Improved output stage
New analogue stages in the D/A converter
Improved digital signal routing
Updated firmware
Improved connectors
Incorporated aptX Bluetooth module
Even though the DIA-400S is a rather expensive amplifier, it dares to be compared directly to exotic Class-D amplifiers at twice or four times the price. It features the best Class-D amplification technology available and combined with our delicate analogue circuits - the result is absolutely world class sonic performance. The DIA-400S is recognizable by its clock like ring around the solid volume knob.
Our reference in Class-D amplification
The DIA-400S amplifier offers a state of the art Class-D output stage with dedicated and optimized switch mode power supplies. The multiple stage power amplifier is built around proven technology from International Rectifier, optimized with a precision high frequency oscillator and PWM modulator. A pair of precision switching MOS-FET transistors, with super low on-resistance ensures the high frequency switching is done perfectly and with as little loss as possible. The output filters are made from quality PP capacitors and low DCR coils, converting the high power PWM signals back into detailed and smooth analogue music.
More than just an Amp
The built-in D/A converter offers real high end performance, enabled by the use of a dedicated power supply, a balanced-drive Burr-Brown PCM1794 D/A converter, an optimized high bandwidth I/V converter, and an analogue stage with low-Q, low pass filters. All digital inputs are upsampled to 24bit/192kHz. This D/A converter will upgrade any digital source - such as wired or wireless streaming from your computer or CD drive - to a high end level of detail and musical performance.
Versatility and Connectivity
We had our eye on versatility and connectivity when designing this amplifier. The DIA-400S offers not only a wide range of digital and analogue inputs, but also line outputs, a trigger signal for external power amplifiers, and a configurable home theater input. The HT input can turn the amplifier into a fixed level power amplifier for use in a surround setup, without compromising the sonic performance.
Unlimited Digital Music Sources
This amplifier can be bend in more ways that you can imagine. With AptX Bluetooth, USB or Toslink input, you have direct access to all the music services the world has to offer.
Turn your DIA-400S into a High Performance Roon Ready Network Player
Adding a Network Player Module to your DIA-400S is a powerful way of transforming your amplifier into a High Performance Roon Ready network streamer.
Bespoke Cover
As standard we offer top covers in high gloss black, white and real walnut veneer to match the finish of our loudspeakers. But what if you prefer to have your DIA-400S match another brand of speakers or a piece of furniture or the color of your Lamborghini? Gato Audio offer to make bespoke top covers for you. We can paint them in virtually any color. So contact us at [email protected] and tell us what you have in mind.
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Product Strengths
- Immense power, outputting 400 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 800 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- Beautiful design, described as museum-worthy, with a sleek aluminum front, large display, silky volume knob, and curved heatsinks
- As an all-in-one integrated amplifier, the DIA-400S includes a very good DAC inside
- The DIA-400S runs cool and is dead silent in operation, with no buzzing, humming, or noise
- Smooth, muscular, dynamic, and offers effortless power
Product Considerations
- Out of the box, the DIA-400S can sound leaner, more focused on clarity, and a little brighter, but improves with burn-in
- The RCA connectors and speaker binding posts are more generic than the higher-quality WBT connectors found on the Gato Amp 150
- Does not have a phono stage
- The top end is not as airy or holographic as some Class A or A/B amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Aavik U-150: The DIA-400S is leaner and more correct, while the Aavik puts a little romance into the music, the Aavik has more inner details and texture, is warmer, richer, and tonally thicker, with more detail and air
- Vs Michi X3: The DIA-400S has more body, warmth, and smoothness, with a greater sense of power and ease
Takeaway: The Gato DIA-400S is a beautiful and powerful all-in-one integrated amplifier, perfect for those seeking a simple, high-quality digital streaming solution. It delivers a smooth, musical sound and has enough power to drive any speaker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The reference in Class-D amplification with our all new Roon Ready streaming module built-in is an absolute killer among the one box solutions in the market today.
Our reference in Class-D amplification
The DIA-400S amplifier offers a state of the art Class-D output stage with dedicated and optimized switch mode power supplies. The multiple stage power amplifier is built around proven technology from International Rectifier, optimized with a precision high frequency oscillator and PWM modulator. A pair of precision switching MOS-FET transistors, with super low on-resistance ensures the high frequency switching is done perfectly and with as little loss as possible. The output filters are made from quality PP capacitors and low DCR coils, converting the high power PWM signals back into detailed and smooth analogue music.
Built-in D/A converter
The built-in D/A converter offers real high end performance, enabled by the use of a dedicated power supply, a balanced-drive Burr-Brown PCM1794 D/A converter, an optimized high bandwidth I/V converter, and an analogue stage with low-Q, low pass filters. All digital inputs are upsampled to 24bit/192kHz. This D/A converter will upgrade any digital source - such as wired or wireless streaming from your computer or CD drive - to a high end level of detail and musical performance.
Versatility and Connectivity
We had our eye on versatility and connectivity when designing this amplifier. The DIA-400S offers not only a wide range of digital and analogue inputs, but also line outputs, a trigger signal for external power amplifiers, and a configurable home theater input. The HT input can turn the amplifier into a fixed level power amplifier for use in a surround setup, without compromising the sonic performance.
NPM - Network Player Module
The built in NPM is a powerfull way of transforming the DIA-400S into a high end network streamer. It connects to the network by Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi, and is controlled by a smartphone or tablet app or as a Roon endpoint. The following services are supported:
Roon Ready
Tidal
Qobuz
Deezer
DLNA UpNP
Roon Ready
Roon is an incredibly rich and engaging way to browse and organize your music. It runs on most Mac, Windows, and Linux PCs, or on other products which include Roon Core. Being Roon Ready means that Gato Audio network players transparently discover and connect to Roon without any configuration, and bit-perfect audio is delivered from Roon to your network player. Together, Roon and Gato Audio deliver the power, flexibility, and performance of networked audio, with the easiest setup and highest reliability available.
High Definition Bluetooth
The Bluetooth input of the NPM supports aptX™ HD 24Bit audio. This means that your DIA-400S is able to receive audio from every smartphone or tablet app in a "better-than-CD" quality.
Bespoke Cover
As standard we offer top covers in high gloss black, white and real walnut veneer to match the finish of our loudspeakers. But what if you prefer to have your DIA-400S NPM match another brand of speakers or a piece of furniture or the color of your Lamborghini? Gato Audio offer to make bespoke top covers for you. We can paint them in virtually any color. So contact us at [email protected] and tell us what you have in mind.
Product Strengths
- Warm, smooth, muscular, and dynamic sound with effortless massive power
- Artful and gorgeous design, potentially museum-worthy, with a sleek aluminum front, large display, and silky volume knob
- Dead silent in operation and runs cooler than most class A or A/B amps
- The built-in DAC is very good, making it a great one-box solution for digital music
Product Considerations
- The sound can be a bit crystal clear and lean out of the box, requiring burn-in time to reach its full potential
- The top end may not be as airy or holographic as some Class A or AB amps
- It will not sweeten up or add flavor to the sound, so bad recordings will still sound bad
- The Bluetooth sound is flatter and thinner compared to using a proper streamer into the Gato DAC
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Aavik U-150: The Aavik is warmer, richer, and has more detail and air, but the Gato gets close at a much lower price
- Vs Michi X3: The Gato has more body, warmth, and smoothness, with a greater sense of power and ease
Takeaway: The Gato DIA-400S is a powerful and beautiful integrated amp that delivers a warm and smooth sound, making it a great all-in-one solution for those who value both performance and design. It offers effortless power and a musical presentation that can connect you with your music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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.
Product Strengths
- Natural and lively sound, especially in the phono preamp section, outperforming some standalone phono preamps
- Clear and detailed sound, with an absence of background noise and enhanced clarity in vocals and instruments
- Unique GaN + PWM amplification design delivers a quieter background and more thrust in dynamic passages
- Built-in phono stage is high-performing and well-suited for MM cartridges
- Versatile functionality includes USB-C input, multiple digital inputs, preamp outputs, and a headphone amplifier section with dual ESS9068 DAC chips
Product Considerations
- The remote is considered simple and plastic for the price point
- Digital direct amplification only works with digital input signals
- Clarity may not appeal to those who prefer the warmth of tubes
- The lights inside may not be for everyone, some find it off-putting
- Sibilance was found to be smeared
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFi Rose RS-520—the Carina GaN has a better punch to it with more authority
- Vs Schiit Audio Mani phono stage—the built-in phono stage trampled all over that Schiit
- Vs Rega Elex-R Mk3—the two phono stages were very comparable in performance, but Carina GaN sounded more relaxed and at ease
Takeaway: The Peachtree Carina GaN is a versatile and feature-rich integrated amplifier with a clear, detailed, and powerful sound. It is a great choice for those seeking a modern, all-in-one solution with a high-performing phono stage and a unique digital amplification design.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Tomorrow's Hi-Fi, Today
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.
Evo 150
Easy to Set Up, Easy to Upgrade
It couldn't be simpler. Connect Evo 150 to the mains and to your speakers. Open StreamMagic, connect to the network, then fire up your favourite music streaming service. Pick a tune, press play and adjust the volume to suit. When you're ready, you can dig deeper to set Evo 150 up just how you want it, adding functionality as you go.
Evo 150 playing through the StreamMagic App
StreamMagic App
Our StreamMagic app offers full control of Evo, plus access to the world's most popular and high-resolution music streaming services. It's clear, logical and stable – so Evo will do precisely what you want. Alternatively, you may prefer to use the app of your favourite streaming service. Evo's ready for you to listen whichever way you choose.
Model watches TV with Evo in view
Connectivity to Suit Your Needs
Thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, including a built-in phono stage, Evo can be the heart of your system – add a turntable, say, or EVO CD. Video sources can play too, just connect your TV's HDMI output to Evo's ARC input. No matter where your music comes from, Evo 150's ready for it.
Model listens to Evo via headphones
Bluetooth Convenience. Hi-Res Sound Quality
Often nothing's more convenient than streaming via Bluetooth. Evo takes it to the max with aptX HD Bluetooth, which features wireless, high-definition music streaming from compatible devices – including our Alva turntables. And because Evo also transmits with Bluetooth aptx HD, it's perfect for private listening on compatible Hi-Res wireless headphones.
Evo in a lifestyle setting with a turntable and books
Made By Music
Evo 150 uses the best audio components, such as the ESS SABRE ES9018k2m Reference DAC. And then we bring every one of our 55+ years of audio know-how to bear. The result is a performance that celebrates the talent of musicians and producers – one that retains the original raw emotive power and detail.
Model turns the volume knob on Evo
Complete Control
Evo is intuitive and straightforward to operate, no matter if you're using its supplied remote control, our simple yet thorough StreamMagic app, or its physical controls – including the large dual-concentric dial on the unit's fascia.
Evo on a shelf in a lifestyle setting
Neat and Easy Placement
At 317mm wide, roughly the size of a vinyl album sleeve, Evo will sit neatly where you need it to. But thanks to its award-winning deisgn and all-around good looks, it really deserves to be centre stage.
Model adds a vinyl record to Alva
Great for Record Lovers
If you want to connect a turntable, Evo 150's built-in phono stage makes it perfect for decks with with moving magnet cartridges, but no integral pre-amp. That's on top of Bluetooth compatibility with our own Alva turntables.
Evo CD
A New Life for CD
Available separately, Evo CD is the compact disc transport developed to exclusively partner Evo all-in-one players. It shares the same eye-catching design, is crafted from the same premium materials and is engineered to the same exacting standards. Evo CD extracts every piece of musical detail from your discs, then passes it seamlessly to Evo. Your CD collection is now set to join the hi-fi evolution.
Detail shot
Designed to Thrill, Built to Last
Evo's confident sound, timeless looks and premium materials mean that you've found your new long-term musical partner – bringing pleasure to both your ears and eyes for many years to come.
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
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers 300Wpc into 8 ohms or 580Wpc into 4 ohms
- Seamless integration with BluOS multiroom wireless music systems
- Undeniable elegance and thoughtfulness are present
- Bluetooth range is good, able to maintain a clean signal through multiple walls
Product Considerations
- The phono stage does not seem to play nicely with turntables that ground through RCA
- Headphone output might struggle in extreme corner cases with particularly demanding headphones
- Setting up the customization options requires using the source-select and volume knobs, as the setup menu isn't accessible via the remote
Takeaway: The Peachtree Carina 300 has personality and elegance, and its integration with BluOS is seamless. It could be a good choice if one wants power and great looks.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a vividly detailed and balanced sound, handling complicated mixes with skill
- Able to extract a lot of information from digital audio files with apparent ease
- A volume lock prevents accidental volume adjustments when the device is in a pocket or bag
- Extensive specification including Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Lossless compatibility and multiple inputs/outputs for versatile connectivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel the device is not very pocket-friendly due to its size and sharp edges, making it better suited as a transportable—rather than a truly portable—device
- The gain is set too high, making precise volume control difficult, especially with sensitive IEMs
- Using IEMatch adds output impedance, which can negatively affect the tonal balance and dynamics of some IEMs
- The length of the included USB-C cable is short, making it difficult to position the device on a desk
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the iDSD Diablo 1, the Diablo 2 offers slight sonic improvements and better build quality, but at a higher price
- Compared to the iDSD Signature, the iDSD Signature is considered by some to offer a better result for less money, with a more realistic instrument and vocal timbre, larger soundstage, and customizable features like crossfeed and bass boost
- Compared to the FiiO Q7, the iDSD Diablo 2 has a vivid sound, where the FiiO Q7 has a smooth and wide sound
Takeaway: The iDSD Diablo 2 is a powerful and versatile DAC/amp that enhances headphone listening with its detailed sound and extensive features. It is a good choice for users who want a high-quality audio experience on the go or at their desk.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Joyful sound signature with detailed output
- Can power a wide range of headphones, due to Ultima technology
- Compact design, stacks perfectly with the Qutest and Huei
- Employs trickle-down Ultima technology to allow delivery of enormous peak current outputs
- Solid build quality using CNC-milled aluminum casework and good heat dissipation
- Connectivity options include headphone and speaker outputs
Product Considerations
- No gain switch for the headphone output
- Default gain level a bit high for sensitive IEMs
- More power limitations with speakers than headphones—best for smaller, efficient speakers or nearfield listening
- Runs hot, requiring good ventilation
- The volume control feels a little wobbly and might be difficult to use in a very precise way, and there is some channel imbalance at very low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Qutest/Anni pairing justifies its price premium thanks to a more composed and insightful presentation that offers notably more low-end authority, dynamic punch and tonal richness
- Cyrus ONE HD is plusher, showing that Anni has strong niche appeal
- The iFi xDSD Gryphon has digital inputs and built-in DAC, while Anni can power speakers
Takeaway: The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact and well-built amplifier that delivers a joyful and detailed sound, making it a great addition to a desktop setup for headphone and nearfield speaker listening. Its use of trickle-down Ultima technology ensures high-quality performance in a small package, and its ability to stack with other Chord devices makes it a good choice for those already invested in the ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- High-quality build and aesthetics, with a metal casing and elegant fascia made to a high standard
- A clear, powerful, and spacious sound, with a presentation that is appealing right from the beginning
- Plenty of power on tap, specified at 70W per channel into 8 ohms and 100W per channel into 4 ohms
- Fantastic connectivity, with three pairs of line-level inputs, an MM phono stage, and outputs for a recorder and subwoofer
- Capable network DAC/streamer with digital controls
Product Considerations
- The dimpled effect flanking the extruded front panel gives the unit a further distinctive look, but the finish feels like plastic upon closer inspection
- The HEOS app isn't bespoke to the 40n, many of the product's set-up options can only be accessed through the unit using the included remote control
- Bluetooth pairing took longer than expected, and there were occasions when the app stopped being able to see or display the music server when switching inputs
- The lettering on the remote control is impossible to read in dim light, and the buttons are too similar in size, resulting in fumbling in the dark
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Marantz Model 40n is a different proposition compared to the Marantz PM7000N, Marantz is keen to reposition itself as a luxury hifi brand and that intent is clear in the 40n's gorgeous build and aesthetics
- Rival systems such as the Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and Naim Uniti Atom do a better job of engrossing listeners in the music, being more insightful, musically engaging, and dynamically exciting by degrees
- Is super-sexy and distinctive styling, a higher level of fit and finish, a much better remote, and access to Sound United's HEOS streaming/multiroom audio platform wanted—or more coaxial and optical digital inputs, Dirac Live room-correction capabilities, more power, a more efficient topology, and access to Lenbrook's BluOS streaming/multiroom audio platform
- At first glance it's hard to distinguish the Model 40n from its slightly costlier Marantz Model 30 sibling
Takeaway: The Marantz Model 40n is a stylish and feature-packed streaming amplifier that offers a musical and inviting performance. With its versatile connectivity options and impressive sound quality, the Model 40n is a great choice for modern, lifestyle hifi systems.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers a comprehensive set of features including CD player, streamer, Bluetooth, headphone amplifier, phono amplifier, and power amplifier, all in one box
- Sounds very good across digital and analogue inputs, the combination of digital decoding and amplification is exceptionally cohesive
- Has a sturdy, well-built casework that feels every inch of its price tag, and is built to last
- Provides clear, detailed and large, spacious sound with an easy-going presentation, and can be part of an expansive wireless multi-room system
- Incorporates a high-quality ESS Sabre DAC and amplifier based on the Audiolab 6000A design
Product Considerations
- The software interface using DTS Play-Fi is a little slow, and Play-Fi is still not gapless, Play-Fi is not delivering at the same level of user experience as competitor solutions
- Rivals have greater dynamic punch, rhythmic accuracy, and energy
- Some reviewers find that the unit can be a bit sensitive with scratched CDs
- Remote and fascia controls aren't all that responsive
- There is no album art displayed on the screen during streaming
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Technics SA-C600, the Technics may not be as big-scaled, open or reveal as much detail as the Audiolab Omnia, but it's more adept at conveying enthusiasm, rhythmic precision and dynamic punch
- In direct competition with the Cambridge Audio Evo 75, the Audiolab Omnia ties Audiolab styling touches into something that is not slavishly retro and gives away absolutely nothing in terms of feel, solidarity and design
- Compared to the NAD C700, the Audiolab Omnia has functionality they cannot get anywhere near—indeed functionality that leaves everything else under two grand looking rather limited
Takeaway: The Audiolab Omnia is a versatile and well-built all-in-one system that offers a wide range of features and delivers enjoyable sound, making it a great option for those seeking convenience without sacrificing audio quality. It's especially appealing for those who still value CD playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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