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

  • Integrates multiple functions, combining preamplifier and power amplification, DAC, moving magnet phono stage, and USB and TOSLINK connections into one unit
  • Design is simple and elegant, with a touch-control interface and a satisfying volume knob
  • Delivers a musical, warm sound, with sufficient detail
  • Provides plenty of power for most listening scenarios
  • Build quality is very good
  • Connectivity options are a plus

Product Considerations

  • Upsampling USB DAC is limited to 24/48, which may be a drawback for computer audio enthusiasts
  • Warmer sonic signature may not suit listeners seeking utmost speed and timing precision
  • Stock remote control looks very basic
  • Compared to other amplifiers, the product has a slightly veiled and softer sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Audiant 80i has a warmer presentation, while the Musical Fidelity M6si is better regarding speed and timing
  • It reminds the reviewer in many ways of tube amps
  • The Audiant 80i outperformed the reviewer's Naim Nait II
  • When used with the Von Schweikert VR5s, the product provides a real magic
  • The amplifier is capable of comparison with some pretty exalted competition, even though it is 'only' an 80w integrated

Takeaway: The Perreaux Audiant 80i is a well-built, versatile integrated amplifier with a warm and musical sound. Its wide range of features and elegant design make it a great choice for audiophiles looking to simplify their systems without sacrificing sound quality.

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

80i

reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

The PERREAUX 80i Stereo Integrated amplifier delivers powerful, pure, distortion-free sound for the discerning music lover. Featuring the high-performance - USB Asynchronous 24 bit / 96k ES SABRE ES9006 Reference Digital Audio Converter (DAC) the 80i provides connection and control of multiple Digital and Analog audio Input sources including Unbalanced Analog Line Inputs 3 (RCA), USB, Optical 2 (Toslink) Digital and Coaxial (SPDIF) Digital Inputs.
Rugged, powerful, built to last a lifetime. The award-winning PERREAUX 80i integrated amplifier is an elegant, well-seasoned and reliable performer. Now in its tenth year of production the fully-featured 80i incorporates the precision ES SABRE ES9006 Reference Digital Audio Converter (DAC), PERREAUX Moving Magnet (MM) Phono Preamplifier Module with Earthing Terminal for Turntable connection, Line-level Analog (RCA) Inputs, Home Theatre Bypass, Preamp and Line Level Outputs, Serial and Full-function IR Remote Control and Backlit Touch Panel Controller. Locate your nearest PERREAUX dealer to experience the 80i Integrated amplifier for yourself.
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:

  • The brand consistently integrates a high-quality Class A headphone amplifier into their products—showing a commitment to headphone listening alongside traditional speaker setups.
  • Perreaux products often feature comprehensive, microprocessor-controlled protection systems that monitor and safeguard both the amplifier and connected speakers.

80i Stereo  

  • Positioning: The basic model aimed at small-room setups with an affordable design.  
  • Description: Offers a simple, straightforward circuit that delivers clear sound for budget-conscious users in compact spaces. Compared to higher models like the 200ix and 300ix, it lacks advanced power modules and processing features, making it best suited for users with modest budgets and minimal functionality needs.

200ix Stereo  

  • Positioning: The mid-range unit designed for greater flexibility in everyday home audio settings.  
  • Description: Uses an upgraded circuitry setup that improves clarity and signal precision over the 80i, making it a step up for medium-sized rooms. In contrast to the entry-level design of the 80i and the more refined features of the 300ix, it offers a balance between cost and performance.

300ix Stereo  

  • Positioning: The upper mid-level option offering enhanced sound details and improved circuitry for better performance.  
  • Description: Features refined power modules and advanced signal paths that provide a broader soundstage compared to both the 80i and 200ix, ideal for larger rooms. When compared with lower-tier products, it brings technical improvements without reaching the separate-channel design found in the most premium models.

VP4 Phono Stage  

  • Positioning: The dedicated preamplifier optimized for vinyl playback and high-sensitivity analog performance.  
  • Description: Features a specialized, low-noise amplification circuit that enhances the fidelity of phono sources, setting it apart from the integrated amplifier designs of the stereo series. Compared to the 80i, 200ix, and 300ix, it focuses solely on analog signal refinement rather than overall power output.

750 Monoblock  

  • Positioning: The high-end separate amplifier designed for premium, large-scale audio systems.  
  • Description: Uses a monoblock design with isolated channels that significantly improve detail and dynamic handling over integrated models. In comparison with the 80i, 200ix, and 300ix, it offers superior performance and separation.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
8
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
252
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
12
Founding Year
1974

Our take on the brand

Perreaux is known for its use of MOSFET output transistors that deliver tube-like sweetness without tube drawbacks, and its amplifiers feature sophisticated microprocessor-controlled protection systems that monitor multiple parameters without degrading audio quality. The brand stands out for unique features like the VP4 phono preamp's built-in battery pack for the blackest possible vinyl background, and custom color options for their integrated amplifiers that are rare in the hifi market.

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?

What's your approach to customer support?

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

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Perreaux
200iX
7995
7995
/
6
Reviews

A colourful and capable performer, the PERREAUX 200iX commands an audience. This powerful and precise, integrated amplifier features iOS and Android remote control, Bluetooth audio streaming, Home Theatre input, integrated Digital Audio Converter (DAC), phono module for turntable connection and a world class headphone amplifier. Available in any colour or your hearts desire - or black. Contact your nearest PERREAUX dealer to experience the 200iX stereo integrated amplifier for yourself.

Perreaux is known for its use of MOSFET output transistors that deliver tube-like sweetness without tube drawbacks, and its amplifiers feature sophisticated microprocessor-controlled protection systems that monitor multiple parameters without degrading audio quality. The brand stands out for unique features like the VP4 phono preamp's built-in battery pack for the blackest possible vinyl background, and custom color options for their integrated amplifiers that are rare in the hifi market.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Offers a wide range of custom colors for the aesthetic design
  • More than sufficient power to drive most loudspeakers
  • Features Class A headphone amplifier
  • Has a built-in DAC, phono stage (MM/MC) and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Delivers clear, detailed and neutral sound

Product Considerations

  • The remote control is lightweight and plasticky
  • Some reviewers found the location of the left and right inputs on the back panel unusual
  • The protection circuit needs to be properly managed
  • The menu on the amp is difficult to see and navigate from the listening position

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audia Flight FLS9: The 200iX did not quite equal the vividness of the FLS9, but it reproduced the music with slightly more cohesion and organic unity
  • Vs Jadis I70: The 200iX held its own against its more-expensive rivals, even though there wasn't quite the same sense of scale or tonal opulence
  • Vs Primare i30: The 200iX was leaner and faster across all musical genres

Takeaway: The Perreaux 200iX is an amplifier that can be tailored to perfectly suit any music setup because of the myriad control options, the multiple color options, and the high-performance features. With its versatility and design, it can fit in any listening room.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Perreaux is known for its use of MOSFET output transistors that deliver tube-like sweetness without tube drawbacks, and its amplifiers feature sophisticated microprocessor-controlled protection systems that monitor multiple parameters without degrading audio quality. The brand stands out for unique features like the VP4 phono preamp's built-in battery pack for the blackest possible vinyl background, and custom color options for their integrated amplifiers that are rare in the hifi market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Perreaux
300iX
9995
9995
/
3
Reviews

Engineered to impress - the no-compromise, 300iX stereo integrated amplifier features iOS / Android and IR remote control, Bluetooth audio streaming, Home Theatre input, integrated ultra-high resolution Digital Audio Converter (DAC), Phono module for Turntable connection and a World-class Headphone amplifier. Available in any colour or your hearts desire - or black. Contact your nearest PERREAUX dealer to experience the 300iX Stereo Integrated amplifier for yourself.

Perreaux is known for its use of MOSFET output transistors that deliver tube-like sweetness without tube drawbacks, and its amplifiers feature sophisticated microprocessor-controlled protection systems that monitor multiple parameters without degrading audio quality. The brand stands out for unique features like the VP4 phono preamp's built-in battery pack for the blackest possible vinyl background, and custom color options for their integrated amplifiers that are rare in the hifi market.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a huge amount of power (300+ Watts RMS into 8 Ohms) to handle demanding speakers
  • Includes a high-quality DAC unit for digital audio sources
  • Features a dedicated Class A headphone amplifier
  • Available in customisable colours
  • Offers versatile connectivity options, including balanced XLR, RCA, USB, digital inputs, and Bluetooth

Product Considerations

  • A hefty unit that takes up considerable space and weighs around 30kg
  • The premium price point may be a barrier for some
  • May be overkill for smaller listening spaces

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Gold Note IS-1000 Deluxe—300iX has 3x the power

Takeaway: The Perreaux 300iX is a powerful and versatile integrated amplifier, well-suited for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound reproduction and extensive connectivity options. Its customizable design and integrated features make it a strong centerpiece for any audio system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Perreaux is known for its use of MOSFET output transistors that deliver tube-like sweetness without tube drawbacks, and its amplifiers feature sophisticated microprocessor-controlled protection systems that monitor multiple parameters without degrading audio quality. The brand stands out for unique features like the VP4 phono preamp's built-in battery pack for the blackest possible vinyl background, and custom color options for their integrated amplifiers that are rare in the hifi market.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Enleum
AMP-23R
6250
6250
/
19
Reviews

Enleum was launched as a new brand with the AMP-23R. While our legacy AMP-13R had already been praised all around the world for its performance and unique design, we pushed the boundaries to create the AMP-23R with a new circuit that truly enhances the existing performance. We have drastically improved the PCB circuit board design, chosen new internal components and upgraded our JET2 Bias design. And the reviews and awards are unanimous. The AMP-23R's physical size and footprint may be compact, but with the all new chassis and thermal heatsink design, we've launched a product that's fit for the next generation reference compact amplifier. The unique design is the DNA of our new Enleum Brand and was already awarded the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021 and iF Design Gold Award 2022. The AMP-23R proudly showcases Enleum's expertise in technology and design.

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

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Feliks Audio
Envy
7345
7345
/
14
Reviews
Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

Takeaway:

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

What competes at this price?

Cambridge Audio
EVO 150
2999
/
Released
2021
With Evo 150, we've brought your audio past and present into the future. With outstanding Hypex NCore Class D amplification and our class-leading StreamMagic streaming platform on board, all you need to do is add speakers to enjoy superb high-resolution audio quality from one elegant, discreet box. And thanks to its suite of digital and analogue inputs, as well as its high-quality digital-to-analogue converter, Evo can be the heart of your hi-fi system for years to come.
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Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Packs many features into a small frame, offering an 'all-in-one' solution by integrating streaming, DAC, preamp, and amplification
  • The sound quality is clear, detailed, smooth, refined, articulate, and neutral, with good soundstage and imaging
  • Offers a wide array of input options (analog and digital) and streaming service compatibility, making it versatile
  • Its Class D amplification (Hypex NCore) is powerful (150Wpc) and efficient, running cool compared to traditional amps
  • The industrial design and aesthetics are highlighted positively, with its sleek look, swappable side panels, and user-friendly interface, enhancing its lifestyle appeal

Product Considerations

  • The headphone preamp may not satisfy serious headphone enthusiasts without a dedicated amp
  • There is a noted lack of bass management
  • The StreamMagic app lags behind the likes of Bluesound and Yamaha MusicCast in terms of its interface
  • Some reviewers found a slight softening of the bottom end
  • One review notes some power supply noise in bench tests, but at inaudible levels

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Offers wider soundstage, depth, and polish than the Naim Uniti Atom, but the Naim Uniti Atom has a greater sense of musicality and tighter rhythmic fabric

Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Evo 150 is a versatile and attractive all-in-one system with excellent sound quality and a comprehensive feature set, making it a great choice for those seeking a simple yet high-performing audio solution. It provides a streamlined experience without sacrificing sound fidelity.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Naim
Uniti Atom Headphone Edition
3799
/
Released
2021
There is no easier way for you to get up close and personal with music than with the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition; put on your headphones, take yourself away, with no distractions. For even more flexibility, you can keep up to three headphones plugged in and switch sets depending on your listening preference.
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Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers a comprehensive and flexible specification, functioning as a headphone amplifier and streaming preamp
  • Produces superb sound quality, described as clear, pure, detailed, dynamic, and musical, without being overly analytical, regardless of genre or recording quality
  • Features a well-made, elegant, and attractive design with a beautiful screen for album art and a satisfying volume control
  • Supports a comprehensive range of streaming services and digital formats including AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz, Bluetooth, UPnP, and Internet Radio, and is Roon Ready
  • Intuitive and stable app, especially for those who know what they want to listen to

Product Considerations

  • The price is high relative to other headphone amplifiers/DACs on the market
  • The front display is not a touchscreen
  • Some might prefer a more analytical sound presentation
  • The HDMI ARC connection is absent
  • The Naim app lacks polish compared to dedicated music apps

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD M10—the Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is specifically focused on headphone use
  • As a headphone amp, it is every bit as good as the Chord Hugo TT2
  • Naim puts less of itself into the performance as opposed to McIntosh MHA200

Takeaway: The Uniti Atom Headphone Edition is a great self-contained system for headphone listening, with an easy-to-use interface and a beautiful design. It is a quality product that can be a centerpiece for your home audio.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Audiolab
9000A
2999
/
Released
2022
As ever, the 9000A is the centre of the audiolab focus in being the beating heart of any high-performance audio system. It's more powerful, capable and feature-packed than any of the preceding models – the most advanced audiolab integrated amplifier yet.
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Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Sonic clarity, detail resolution, and control
  • Sturdy build and fine finish with solid casework and nicely damped
  • Flexible product offering integrated, pre-amp, or pre-power combo options
  • Balanced nature means that no particular genre of music is favored above any other
  • Impressively equipped with a wide range of inputs including RCA, XLR, Coax, Optical, USB B, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and LDAC

Product Considerations

  • Dynamic contrasts could be stronger
  • Rhythmic drive could be stronger
  • Phono stage a little flat-footed
  • The display graphics on the screen can be on the small side to read from across a room
  • Treble could be more exciting and dynamic

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audiolab 6000A: Offers better instrumental separation, clarity of guitar strings, and a fuller bass response
  • Vs Naim Nait XS3 or Rega Elicit Mk5: Delivers less entertainment and rhythmic drive

Takeaway: The Audiolab 9000A is a capable and flexible amplifier offering sonic clarity and a range of features to slot easily into most systems. It charms and delights, never forcing music onto your ears but always upgrading the sound for great speaker performance.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Rega
Elicit MK5
3345
/
Released
2022
The all new Elicit MK5 stereo integrated amplifier is designed and built to the highest standard. Housed in our latest custom case to match the rest of the Rega range, the new MK5 builds on previous Rega designs by using our multi-award-winning Class A/B power amplifier circuit to deliver a powerful 105 W per channel into 8 Ω loads (127 W into 6 Ω). Our engineers have designed a new Rega DAC circuit offering digital connectivity and greater integration with a variety of other products. We have taken great care to incorporate a high-quality MM phono stage and the headphone output has been configured such that the speaker switching is performed by the output mute relay to avoid obstructing the signal path.
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Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Rega is a British hifi brand known for its minimalist, low-mass turntable designs that challenge the industry's typical heavy-mass approach to reducing vibration. Their hand-assembled turntables and tonearms use advanced materials like graphene-infused carbon fiber and feature slim yet rigid plinths with striking glass platters, reflecting founder Roy Gandy's unique engineering perspective on how components affect
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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PrimaLuna
EVO 300 (Integrated)
4695
/
Released
2021
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PrimaLuna is known for their hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state components, featuring their unique Adaptive AutoBias technology that automatically adjusts tube performance for optimal sound and longevity.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Combines the tonal qualities of tubes with the power of solid-state amplification, combining the great aspects of both technologies
  • Delivers a clean, detailed, dynamic, and musically insightful sound
  • Well-built with high-quality components, including point-to-point wiring in the preamp section
  • Includes a headphone amplifier powered by the same internal amp as the speakers, not an op-amp
  • Multiple inputs and functions, including home theater bypass, subwoofer output, and tape output

Product Considerations

  • Lacks balanced inputs and a pre-amplifier output
  • The volume control can be very sensitive at low levels
  • Optional MM phono stage requires additional purchase
  • Requires good ventilation due to running warm

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus Cambridge Audio Edge NQ / 2 x Gold Note PA-10 setup, the EVO 300 Hybrid delivers a level of engagement that was captivating, the improvement over the normal setup slightly disconcerting
  • Versus Schiit Jotunheim, the PrimaLuna bested it, with a slightly cleaner sound that let a touch more detail through

Takeaway: The PrimaLuna EVO 300 Hybrid offers a balance of tube warmth and solid-state power to give listeners the best of both worlds. Its detailed sound, robust build, and versatility make it a worthwhile addition to any audiophile's system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PrimaLuna is known for their hybrid amplifiers that combine tube and solid-state components, featuring their unique Adaptive AutoBias technology that automatically adjusts tube performance for optimal sound and longevity.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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