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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.

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Tube assembly: 2 x ECC88 (6922)
  • Power output: 2 x 110/ 180 W @ 8 Ohm/4 Ohm
  • Frequency response: 10 Hz - 50 kHz (- 0.8 dB/ - 3 dB)
  • Signal to noise ratio: >-100 dB (IEC -A)
  • THD: < 0.05% @ 100 W
  • Input: RCA & XLR-sockets
  • Input sensitivity: 1.35 V
  • Input Impedance: 22 kOhm
  • Damping factor: 400 @ 8 ohms; 200 @ 4 ohms
  • Speaker terminals: 4 mm Ø Banana, spade or bare wire
  • External power supply: 48 V/2.5 A DC; 100 - 240 V, 50/60 Hz
  • Standby consumption: < 1 Watt
  • Dimensions W x H x D: 206 x 72 x 220 mm
  • Weight: 2120 g without power supply
Amp Box RS is a highend stereo power amplifier offering ultimate high-end sound with high efficiency in a compact luxury casing. Four specific characteristics make this a true high-end amplifier: 1. Fully balanced double mono design 2. Highly efficient energy saving PWM modules 3. Tube buffer input stage 4. Upgrade option PS Box RS for more power and further improved sound quality
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:

  • Pro-Ject offers a range of turntables and components that focus on simple setup and ease of use, often arriving pre-configured, making them particularly appealing to beginners.
  • They prioritize sonic performance, often incorporating higher-end components like carbon fiber tonearms and Ortofon cartridges, even in their more affordable models.
  • Pro-Ject is known for its all-in-one audio systems that combine a turntable, amplifier, and receiver into a single unit, aiming to provide component-like sound quality in a smaller, more convenient package.

A2

  • Positioning: The entry-level, fully automatic turntable designed for ease of use and convenience.
  • Description: Offers a fully automatic operation with a sub-chassis design that isolates the tonearm and platter from vibrations, making it ideal for small spaces where speakers are close to the turntable. Unlike the more manual and high-end models like the Signature series, focuses on user-friendly features and affordability, making it suitable for those with a limited budget who still want quality sound.

The Classic Reference

  • Positioning: Positioned as a mid-range turntable, combines traditional design with modern technology.
  • Description: Features a high-end EVO 9 AS HG tonearm and a precision motor control system, providing excellent sound quality with a touch of luxury. It offers more advanced features compared to the A2, such as a balanced XLR output.

RPM 10 Carbon

  • Positioning: A high-end turntable known for its innovative design and superior sound quality.
  • Description: With its carbon fiber chassis and 10" Evo tonearm, delivers exceptional sound clarity and stability. It stands out from the Classic Reference with its advanced materials and design.

Signature 10

  • Positioning: A premium turntable that combines mass-loading with magnetically-floating principles for high-end audio performance.
  • Description: Features a 10" single-pivot tonearm and a magnetically decoupled platter, providing a resonance-free listening experience. It offers more precise adjustments and a higher level of performance compared to the RPM 10 Carbon.

Signature 12.2

  • Positioning: The flagship model, representing the pinnacle of Pro-Ject's turntable lineup.
  • Description: Boasts a groundbreaking 12" 3-point pivot tonearm and a flywheel belt drive system, ensuring the most accurate and stable playback. It surpasses the Signature 10 with its larger tonearm and enhanced stability.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
244
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
15
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
105
Founding Year
1991

Our take on the brand

Pro-Ject Audio Systems, an Austrian brand founded in 1991, has been at the forefront of reestablishing analog music reproduction to the public. The company handcrafts 95% of all components in the European Union. The turntables focus on manual operation and minimalist design with a wide selection of colors that make their turntables both audio devices and stylish furniture pieces. The brand stands out for offering one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, and speakers. Pro-Ject products are engineered with a focus on best audio reproduction for the money and omission of costly, unnecessary features.

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?

Pro-Ject Audio Systems was founded with a passion for analog audio reproduction. Our very first product, introduced in 1991, was a record player – a time when the entire industry was turning its back on vinyl. We didn’t jump on the bandwagon when vinyl became hip – we were instrumental in bringing vinyl back.

We manufacture – not only assemble – 95% of our products in the EU. Raw materials come in – finished products leave the factories. Since we make everything ourselves, we are able offer a 25 year spare part availability!

Today, we offer one of the broadest ranges of high-fidelity products in the world, including turntables, CD players, DACs, streamers, phono preamps, amplifiers, speakers, and a variety of accessories designed to enhance your system and vinyl care.

What's your approach to customer support?

 Pro-Ject Audio Systems has a worldwide network of dealers and distributors. We ensure that our team members are highly knowledgeable in the field of high-fidelity audio setup and repairs. In the event of a need for support, the first point of contact is the local dealer. If the dealer cannot handle the problem, the second tier is the distributor in the respective country. By handling as many problems as possible locally, we can ensure the quickest and smoothest resolution. 

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

Aside from one of the audio industry’s widest range of high-fidelity products, Pro-Ject also produces limited runs of high-quality vinyl records. 7Ray’s Jazzy Zoetrope is a double album of fine Jazz standards played by 7Ray and his quartet. One of the two records was recorded live at our headquarters in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria. We produced the whole album in AAA for the highest analog purity. Here’s a link to the records we offer, which double as fine reference recordings across multiple musical genres.

https://www.project-audio.com/en/category/lps/

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
Shareef Karl Fahim
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Galion
TS A75
1495
1495
/
7
Reviews

Giant Killer Galion TS A75 Power Amp

Why is this called a giant killer? The performance of this amplifier is so good that you will question whether the significantly more expensive amplifier you are currently shopping for is truly better than this one; for those who prefer XLR, the TS A75 comes with both XLR and RCA inputs.

High current design

Sure, it is only 75w, but there is so much power and control with the TS A75 that you might mistake it for a 200w amplifier instead. We designed the TS A75 to deliver quality watts over quantity watts. This amp will grip your bass drivers with authority and control.

Dynamic Bass

With two 200W toroidal transformers and 20 capacitors, giving a total of 200k uf of capacitance bank for both channels, while most affordable amplifiers have about 40k uf, the bass on the TS A75 will make you wonder if you even need to turn on your subwoofer. Not only is the bass impactful and gut-punching, but it is also tight and fast.

Airy Holographic 3D Soundstage

The airy 3D soundstage of the TS A75 is so good that it can even challenge tube-integrated amps. If you have been curious about what audiophiles mean when they talk about this mysterious 'air' in the soundstage, you no longer need to feel left out because the TS A75 has so much air that it can rival expensive amplifiers. Having an airy soundstage is one of the main advantages of the TS A75 current feedback design over the voltage feedback design.

High-Quality Build

The TS A75 custom chassis and big heatsink were designed to keep the unit cool. As a result, the amplifier barely runs warm, which means the capacitors will have a longer lifespan. In addition, we built the amp to have a thick chassis, so you don't have to worry about stacking your preamp on top.

True High Resolution

You might have heard of this audiophile joke, "My system is so resolving that I can hear a pin dropping." Although this is an exaggeration, high-end systems are more detailed than entry-level systems, and you can hear everything effortlessly. The TS A75 will allow you to hear the pin dropping. You will hear things in the recording you have never heard before. The saying, 'A veil has been lifted,' is how you will feel with the TS A75.

Midrange clarity

Besides the sparkling top-end detail, one of the things that will catch your attention right away is the midrange clarity. The saying, 'I can hear the vocal chords of the singer,' is not a dream with this amplifier. Never before have we seen this level of clarity with an affordable amplifier.

Extreme Dynamic Contrast

One thing you will notice right away with the TS A75 is its incredible dynamic contrast. Highs extend further up, the bass hits lower and harder, and the swing from quiet to loud passages seems instantaneous. The TS A75 is an exciting amp to listen to, especially if you are into classical music, where there is significant variation in dynamics.

True Balanced Circuit

The TS A75 features a genuine XLR balanced design. When using a long interconnect cable with the TS A75, opt for XLR connections to experience reduced noise and a darker background.

Galion Audio designs amplifiers with truly balanced architecture and tube-like sound characteristics, featuring unique controls for feedback levels and tone adjustments that avoid typical tonal discoloration. Their amplifiers are distinguished by robust power supplies with dual toroidal transformers and the ability to switch between Class A and Class AB modes, which is rare in their price range.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a tube-like sound, with a warm and musical presentation
  • Robust power supply with substantial capacitance (200,000 microfarads) provides good bass control and dynamics
  • Transparent and precise sound, with a wide and deep soundstage
  • Balanced design with both RCA and XLR inputs, the latter offering a cleaner and more dynamic sound
  • Offers excellent value, outperforming other amplifiers in a similar price range

Product Considerations

  • Requires a pre-amplifier to control volume
  • May exhibit slight transformer noise when close to the unit
  • Does not have pop control, requiring caution when plugging/unplugging connections
  • Some reviewers found the logo placement slightly off-center and the blue LED power light too bright
  • Bass control is not as punchy or defined for some tastes, leaning towards a tube-like bass delivery

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The TSA-75 has a different, more flavorful sound signature compared to the Orchard Audio's neutral sound
  • The TSA-75 provides superior micro detail, cleanliness, clarity, and stereo imaging, compared to Schiit Audio Vidar 2
  • Performance is head-to-head with the Denafrips Thalo, depending on sound preference—the more balanced, snappy presentation of the Thalo, or the more V-shaped sound with greater depth and soundstage of the TSA-75
  • The TSA-75 has a distinct sound signature, unlike Emotiva amps
  • The TSA-75 outperforms the McIntosh MC275 Mark VI in audiophile performance

Takeaway: The Galion Audio TS A75 is a well-built amplifier that delivers a warm, tube-like sound with good bass and a wide soundstage. It provides excellent value and is a great choice for those looking for a musical and engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Galion Audio designs amplifiers with truly balanced architecture and tube-like sound characteristics, featuring unique controls for feedback levels and tone adjustments that avoid typical tonal discoloration. Their amplifiers are distinguished by robust power supplies with dual toroidal transformers and the ability to switch between Class A and Class AB modes, which is rare in their price range.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Product image
Schiit
Tyr
1399
1399
/
5
Reviews
Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Robust, effortless power with excellent control makes it easy to drive all speakers with authority and deliver a satisfying listening experience.
  • Balanced and neutral sound, with a solid low end that prevents it from sounding dull or anemic, while also ensuring it is not too aggressive to cause listening fatigue.
  • Excellent timing makes music engaging and foot-tapping, and is particularly impressive with genres such as R&B and soundtracks.
  • Built in the USA, it has a 5 year warranty and 15 day satisfaction guarantee

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for listeners seeking a romantic, sweet, and smooth midrange, or those who prefer a very lively sound.
  • The amp required careful system matching to achieve its full potential, particularly needing a high-end preamp to unlock greater refinement and resolution.
  • Bass performance might be seriously challenged by more modern amplifiers.
  • There is a slight differential in gain

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Emotiva A1s, the Tyr has more bass, more clarity in the bass, and is less veiled overall
  • Reminiscent of McIntosh 7270—the Tyr gives off similar 'Mac vibes'.

Takeaway:

The Schiit Tyr monoblocks deliver a lot of power and control, making music sound good with a balanced and neutral style. It's a great option for an amplifier that can handle almost any speaker and is versatile.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Schiit Audio, an extremely popular direct-to-consumer hifi brand, specializes in entry-level DACs and amps for both headphones and speakers. Through their distinctive, authentic voice and low-price philosophy, they've built a very loyal customer base.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Topping
DX9
1299
1299
/
5
Reviews
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Breathtaking design with curved corners, symmetrical front faceplate, and a glass component revealing internal circuitry
  • Powerful headphone amplifier capable of outputting up to 10W at 16Ω and 7W at 32Ω
  • Good sound quality, described as clean, detailed, and punchy, with a balanced tonal presentation
  • CNC machined aluminum remote control with rubber buttons
  • Multiple inputs and outputs, including 6.35mm, 4.4mm, and 4-pin XLR outputs on the front, and optical, coaxial, AES, IIS, USB, and Bluetooth on the back, with RCA and XLR outputs for lineout and preamplifier lineouts

Product Considerations

  • Glass top panel gets hotter than the aluminum housing
  • The glass panel is a fingerprint magnet and requires cleaning regularly
  • No analog line-in to pair the amplifier with 3rd party DACs
  • No streaming capability via WiFi or LAN
  • Some menu navigation can be cumbersome, requiring cycling through options rather than direct selection

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Topping A90 and D90 stack, the DX9 has similar inputs, outputs and power, but the stack is more versatile, as the amp and DAC can be used separately— the DX9 has additional coaxial and optical inputs, and the sound is somewhat similar
  • Compared to the HIFIMAN EF400, the DX9 has more inputs/outputs and more power, but the EF400 sounds warmer
  • Compared to the Topping D90SE, the DX9 sounds more fun, its bass and midrange has more energy and oomph, but the D90SE is more transparent, though ultimately quite flat
  • Compared to the AURALiC Altair G2.1, the DX9 sounds cleaner and better separated, with a small reduction in digital hash

Takeaway: The Topping DX9 is a beautiful and powerful all-in-one DAC/amp that offers a clean and detailed sound, making it suitable for both headphone and speaker setups. Its versatility and attractive design make it a compelling option for those seeking a high-quality audio solution.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Peachtree
GaN 1
1499
1499
/
4
Reviews

It is a 200 watt-per-channel power amplifier designed to be the sole interface between your variable output digital audio device, like a Bluesound NODE, and your speakers. The GaN 1 is a simple, pure and cost-effective audio solution. Connect the GaN 1 to a streamer and a pair of speakers. That's it...no DAC, no preamp and no input switching. The signal path from the music to your speakers is remarkably short and free from artifacts. Want to hear all of the intricate details in your music that have always been there, but you couldn't quite hear them before? Then the GaN 1 is for you!

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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Product Strengths

  • GANFET transistors switch faster, are more heat resistant, and produce less distortion than MOSFET transistors
  • A monstrous 400-watt regulated power supply
  • Designed to work specifically with a source with a variable output, be it a silver disc-spinning device or one of today's best yet affordable HD music streamers
  • Offers a level of audiophile performance that well exceeds any reasonable expectations that come with the amp's modest price tag
  • Offers a super clean minimal setup when paired with the Bluesound Node

Product Considerations

  • Has only one digital coaxial input, limiting connectivity options and expansion
  • Lacks volume indication on the unit itself, requiring reliance on the source's volume control
  • Some reviewers noticed a high-pitched noise coming from early prototypes, which was later fixed by Peachtree
  • Isn't the type of amp that makes a poorly recorded song sound better
  • Is a non-standard size

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bluesound Power Node: Setup has a much more substantial mid-range, better low-end control, and ever so slightly better speed with rhythmic transient attack
  • Vs NAD M10 V2: Is the more dynamically relaxed
  • Vs Hegel H190: Reviewers actually preferred the more forward presentation of midrange

Takeaway: The GAN1 is a forward-thinking piece of tech that prioritizes simplicity and sound quality for those who want to just stream music. It provides outstanding value and impressive performance, especially for those looking for a minimalist, high-fidelity system.

Video review

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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What competes at this price?

Topping
LA90
799
/
Released
2022
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Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
  • Offers good instrument separation and imaging
  • Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
  • Compact size for an A-B amplifier
  • Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections

Product Considerations

  • May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
  • External power supply 'brick' is large
  • No remote control

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
  • The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
  • The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
  • Emotiva A1's have more power

Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Topping
LA90 (Discrete)
799
/
Released
2022
Check Amazon
Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
  • Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
  • Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
  • CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool

Product Considerations

  • Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
  • Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
  • Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
  • Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
  • The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage

Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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Emotiva
BasX A1
569
/
Released
2024
The BasX A1 is a monoblock amplifier ideal for driving dedicated power to your most important speakers. Use the A1 as the foundation for a high-performance stereo system or to give every speaker in your system the ultimate assurance of pure channel isolation.
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Emotiva is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that enables audiophiles to customize their amplifier configurations through a modular "Build Your Own" approach, using their Differential Reference design to minimize noise and distortion.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
  • Delivers a neutral presentation overall
  • Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
  • The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
  • Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
  • Only has a single line-level RCA-style input

Product Considerations

  • Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
  • High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
  • Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
  • Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage

Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Emotiva is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that enables audiophiles to customize their amplifier configurations through a modular "Build Your Own" approach, using their Differential Reference design to minimize noise and distortion.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Orchard Audio
Starkrimson Mono (Premium)
999
/
Released
2024
Introducing the Starkrimson Mono Premium audio power amplifier – where innovation meets audio excellence. Groundbreaking gallium nitride (GaN) technology has been seamlessly integrated into every aspect of this audio masterpiece. GaN's efficiency and precision redefine expectations, delivering crystal-clear, distortion-free sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum.
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Orchard Audio is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that uses Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their Starkrimson amplifiers, which allows for faster switching and less distortion compared to traditional amplifiers. Their compact Starkrimson Mono amplifiers deliver 150 watts per channel with very low noise, and the company provides detailed specifications and measurements that are valued by the audiophile community.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • A very quiet background allows detailed music to emerge clearly
  • Plenty of power (150W into 8 Ohms) exhibits good control, speed and dynamics
  • GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology is used for efficient power throughput and performance, which shakes the bad reputation of Class D amps
  • A neutral sound signature aims to reproduce the recording accurately
  • Compact size allows for flexible placement and short speaker cables
  • Balanced XLR cable connections are required, RCA connections need a separate adapter (sold by Orchard Audio)

Product Considerations

  • Visually, the amps may not appeal to those seeking 'audiophile eye candy'
  • A power cable is not included unless specified
  • A power indicator light is absent
  • In certain system pairings, the sound can be analytical or bright

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Starkrimson provides micron-precise separation, while the First Watt F5 thickens things up a touch
  • Starkrimson offers more power and benefits from being a monoblock chassis, while the Gold Note IS-10 does not
  • Starkrimson offers more power and better control over the bass, as well as speed, compared to the Nakamichi PA-5 Stasis

Takeaway: The Orchard Audio Starkrimson Mono Premium amps deliver power and performance in a small size, and are especially good for audiophiles that seek a neutral sound, lots of detail, and excellent value. These amps could be a great fit for anyone wanting a modern and efficient hifi experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Orchard Audio is a direct-to-consumer hifi brand that uses Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology in their Starkrimson amplifiers, which allows for faster switching and less distortion compared to traditional amplifiers. Their compact Starkrimson Mono amplifiers deliver 150 watts per channel with very low noise, and the company provides detailed specifications and measurements that are valued by the audiophile community.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Topping
B200
599
/
Released
2024
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Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Clean and well-focused sound with a good soundstage
  • Good sense of depth and soundstage, with lifelike and detailed vocals and instruments
  • Very clean signal with low noise
  • Excellent build quality with a solid, all-metal construction
  • Three balanced inputs (XLR or TRS)

Product Considerations

  • Lacks RCA inputs, limiting connectivity for some users
  • Some reviewers felt that the sound lacked dynamics and energy compared to other amplifiers
  • Highs are detailed, but could be a problem depending on the speaker selection
  • Separate 12-volt trigger leads could be a hassle in some setups

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Fosi Audio V3 Monos, the B200s deliver a slightly wider soundstage and better resolution of detail
  • Vs Schiit Audio Aegir Classic monoblocks, the B200 delivers clean transparent and spacious sound, micro detail and resolution is a bit better with better separation between the notes

Takeaway: The Topping B200 monoblock amplifiers offer a clean and detailed sound with excellent build quality, making them a good option for audiophiles seeking a high-performance, small-footprint amplifier setup Their balanced inputs and powerful output make them a versatile addition to any serious listening environment

Video review

Our take on the brand

Topping Audio is a measurement-focused hifi brand that developed its own proprietary PSRM DAC architecture and NFCA amplifier topology to achieve exceptionally low distortion levels. Their products, from the flagship D90 III Discrete DAC to entry-level interfaces like the E2x2, use advanced technologies like custom I/V conversion stages and high-feedback Class B designs to deliver clean, accurate sound reproduction.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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