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
- A 'hulking monster of a power amplifier' with 350 watts into 8 ohms, with a classic class-A-B style.
- Delivers 'gobs and gobs of power transformer energy' due to the twin Rotel transformers.
- Has 'beefy, quality' speaker terminals that work well with bare wire, banana plugs, or spades.
- Exhibits little coloration, leaning slightly toward treble or brightness, but is not harsh, cold, or sterile.
- Creates a wide and tall soundstage.
Product Considerations
- A heavy amplifier, weighing 84 pounds.
- Though the amp has balanced inputs, it is not a fully balanced design end to end.
- Soundstage depth may be shallower compared to more expensive amplifiers.
- Imaging was noted as less centrally focused compared to a more expensive amplifier.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Rotel's soundstage depth was shallower compared to the Marantz PM-10, and imaging was less centrally focused.
- The reviewer was replacing the Rotel RB-1080 with the RB-1590.
- One reviewer compared the soundstage depth of the RB-1590 to the Audio Research VS55 and Simaudio 760A.
Takeaway: The RB-1590 provides a lot of power for demanding audio moments and has excellent build quality. It's a great option for those who need a powerful amplifier to drive difficult speakers.
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
RB-1590
reviews
[{"title":"ROTEL RC-1590 MKII STEREO PREAMPLIFIER AND RB 1590 STEREO AMPLIFIER REVIEW","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/rotel-rc-1590-mkii-stereo-preamplifier-and-rb-1590-stereo-amplifier-review","source":"Home Theater Hifi","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"ROTEL RC1590 PREAMPLIFIER AND RB1590 POWER AMPLIFIER REVIEW","link":"https://hometheaterhifi.com/reviews/amplifier/preamplifier/rotel-rb1590-rc1590-preamplifier-power-amplifier-review","source":"Home Theater Hifi","datePublished":"2016"},{"title":"Rotel RB-1590 Power Amplifier Review","link":"https://audiophilepure.com/2016/02/21/rotel-rb-1590-power-amplifier-review","source":"Audiophilepure","datePublished":"2016"},{"title":"ROTEL RB 1590 AMPLIFIER Review With MartinLogan ESL X | The 700 Watt BEAST!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmHmKdp_9YE","source":"Shane Lee","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Rotel RB-1590 Stereo Amplifier | This Amp is a BEAST at 350 W Per Channel","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wNHRems-_Q","source":"Gramophone","datePublished":"2023"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Power Output: 350 W/Ch (8 Ω), 648 W/Ch (4 Ω)
- Total Harmonic Distortion: < 0.03% (20 Hz – 20k Hz)
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 100k Hz, ± 0.5 dB
- S/N Ratio: 120 dB (IHF "A" Weighted)
- Gain: RCA: 27.5 dB, XLR: 23.5 dB
- Intermodulation Distortion: < 0.03% (60 Hz : 7k Hz, 4:1)
- Damping Factor: 300
- Speaker Impedance: 4 Ω minimum
- Input Sensitivity: Line Level Inputs (RCA): 2.2 V, Line Level Inputs (XLR): 3.5 V
- Input Impedance: Line Level Inputs (RCA): 12k Ω, Line Level Inputs (XLR): 100k Ω
- Channel Separation: > 50 dB
- Dimensions: 431 × 237 × 454 mm (17" × 9.75" × 17.9")
- Power Consumption: 800 W
- Standby Power Consumption: 0.5 W
- Net Weight: 38.1 kg (84 lbs)
- BTU Rating: 2100 BTU/h (4 Ω, 1/8th power)
Description
Power - refined, detailed, and plenty of it. Rotel's new Class AB stereo power amplifier is rated at 350 Watts per channel into 8 ohms both channels driven. That is a lot of power, but larger listening rooms or less sensitive loudspeaker designs require it to bring out the best possible performance and attain realistic audio dynamics.
The RB-1590 is at the top of its class as a 2 x 350 Watts stereo amplifier with dual toroidal transformers and special slit foil capacitors.
Release Timeline
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:
- Rotel manufactures its own toroidal transformers, allowing precise control over power delivery and contributing to the robust build quality of their products.
- They frequently incorporate a fully functional moving magnet phono stage into their amplifiers, catering to vinyl enthusiasts with a high signal-to-noise ratio.
- Rotel products offer a "straightforward" design philosophy that prioritizes excellent sound quality and ease of use, rather than extensive customization options.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Rotel S14
- Positioning: An integrated network streamer, offering an all-in-one solution for music streaming.
- Description: Provides convenient access to a vast catalog of online music, delivering 150 Watts of Class AB power. Features a 32-bit ESS DAC for high-resolution audio. Compared to other Rotel products, the integration of streaming services and Roon Ready certification provides a seamless experience for those prioritizing ease of use and modern connectivity.
Rotel RAS-5000
- Positioning: A high-performance integrated streaming amplifier designed to enhance home entertainment systems.
- Description: Offers 220 Watts of Class AB power. Includes advanced features like HDMI ARC and aptX HD Bluetooth, distinguishing it from other Rotel models by providing superior connectivity options for home theater setups.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
476
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
4
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
35
Founding Year
1957
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
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
Used
Rotel
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Rotel
X5 Series 2
8499
8499
/
3
Reviews
The Michi X5 Series 2 Integrated Amplifier combines 600 Watts of unwavering Class AB output power and an ESS SABRE 8-Channel Digital to Analog converter to deliver breathtaking precision and unparalleled control. Analog, Digital, XLR, aptX™ HD Bluetooth, PC-USB, Moving Magnet and Moving Coil Phono Stage sources are all supported.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Expand Details
.svg)
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality commensurate with the Michi name
- An almost absurd amount of power to drive even the most demanding loudspeakers (350Wpc into 8 ohms, 600Wpc into 4 ohms)
- A very quiet and nice-sounding onboard phono stage
- Excellent sound quality with both analog and digital sources
- The ESS Sabre ES9028PRO DAC delivers a precise, tighter, and more open soundstage
- Streaming is limited to Bluetooth ACC and aptX HD
Product Considerations
- Lacks built-in Wi-Fi for streaming
- No settings for adjusting capacitance or resistance on the phono input, values are preset
- The power amplifier section cannot be muted when using preamp outputs
- Some reviewers would like to see an HDMI ARC connection
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bryston B135 SST 2, the X5 S2 has greater power, broader connectivity, and more luxurious industrial design
- Vs Hegel H400, X5 S2 has more power in the sub-bass range and a phono input, but the H400 has streaming via Ethernet
- Vs Yamaha A-S3200, X5 S2 has better control, especially in the bass
- Vs McIntosh MA5300, X5 S2 has more power
- Vs Hegel H600, the Michi X5 S2 delivers comparable high-end performance
Takeaway: The Michi X5 S2 is a powerful, all-in-one integrated amplifier that delivers excellent sound quality and build quality, making it a great choice for those wanting a high-end audio solution. Its massive power reserves ensure it can drive almost any loudspeaker with ease.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Product Page
Product Page
Musical Fidelity
Nu-Vista 800.2
8999
8999
/
11
Reviews
The Nu-Vista 800 was an amplifier that has enjoyed much popularity and use as a high end hybrid integrated over the past few years. Unfortunately, as with all things encompassing modern, as well as more traditional technology, parts were discontinued. The original “retro look” display was suddenly no longer produced at very short notice. We were therefore left with a choice - discontinue a popular amplifier or workaround and replace the original with updated version but as unchanged as possible from the original formula. The Nu-Vista 800.2 measures like a dream but, more importantly, it sounds incredible. It is silky smooth with enormous transients and an effortless feel that is at once relaxing and involving. Of special note how the Nu-Vista 800.2 projects images between the loudspeakers so that you can almost touch them.
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality and power output meters
- Hugely revealing performer with warm, rich, and smooth sound
- More power than most will ever need
- Dual-mono design with nuvistor tubes for the input stage and solid-state output stage
- New power transformers are rewound to have lower standing flux, making them less sensitive to mains DC offset noise
Product Considerations
- The remote control is difficult to read in poor lighting conditions
- The VU meters are distracting to some
- A very heavy and sizeable unit
- It does not have a phono stage or digital inputs
- Transient response was below that of the best integrated amplifiers, as was its resolution
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Hegel H590: The Hegel H590 offers similar level of performance
Takeaway: The Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 800.2 is a powerful and well-built amplifier that delivers a smooth, musical, and detailed sound. Its exceptional power and unique nuvistor tube design make it a great choice for audiophiles who want a high-performing and visually impressive centerpiece for their system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Musical Fidelity is known for its unique amplifier designs, particularly the A1 integrated amplifier that uses its top plate as a heatsink and features a distinctive current-mode phono stage. The brand stands out for its innovative dual-monoblock approach in integrated amplifiers, where separate power transformers and dedicated power supplies are housed in a single chassis, as seen in their M8xi and M6i models that deliver exceptional power output.
Product Page
Product Page
Primare
A35.8
5247
5247
/
8
Reviews
The A35.8 is Primare’s most powerful and flexible multi-channel amplifier, designed to serve the needs of virtually any high-performance multi-channel system through its ability for each pair of channels to be bridged to mono for an incredible level of power delivery and system building options, including 1500 watts of total output in a fully bridged bi-amped stereo configuration. Shipping June 2022!
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- The A35.8 provides eight channels of 'unimpeachable Class D power in a fairly compact and very flexible package'
- Flexible configuration options for power output to speakers are available, such as bi-amping and bridging
- Each stereo pair can be bridged separately to make four times 375 watts (8 Ohms) from the eight times 150 watts
- Fault-free sound quality
- High quality fit and finish
- The A35.8 offers flexible connectivity options
Product Considerations
- The 20-amp power inlet is the seldom-seen variety with three horizontal blades
- The speaker output posts are spaced too widely for dual-banana plugs
- Cabling can be tricky
- A high current power cord is needed
- Lower gain is present, though this doesn't necessarily need to be an issue
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs NAD M28, the A35.8 gets you one more channel and more versatility for a 10% price increase
- Vs Benchmark AHB2, the Benchmark presented a more neutral tonal balance and undistorted soundstage
- Vs NAD C 298 stereo amplifiers, the Primare seemed slightly more forward, often conveying an appealing liveliness
Takeaway: The A35.8 power amplifier is a flexible and versatile product worth considering for anyone seeking a high-quality multi-channel setup. Its ability to bridge channels offers many ways to configure your speaker system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Primare is a Scandinavian hifi brand whose UFPD 2 Amplification technology provides a consistent 26dB feedback loop gain across the entire audio range, making their amplifiers exceptionally stable and accurate. Their modular design approach lets users customize their systems by adding or upgrading components like DACs and network modules.
Product Page
Product Page
.png){kind=small}
EAR Yoshino
EAR 890
6351
6351
/
5
Reviews
EAR Yoshino is a British hifi brand where each product is handmade from start to finish by a single engineer, with their amplifiers featuring a unique balanced bridge mode output stage design that assigns separate windings to each electrode on the output transformer. Their tube-based equipment, inspired by founder Tim de Paravicini's professional recording studio experience, is used by renowned artists like Pink Floyd and Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs.
Expand Details
Our summary
Product Strengths
- The EAR 890 produces 70Wpc in stereo, and can be bridged to 140W in monoblock
- Neutral sound that gets out of the way and lets the user enjoy the music
- Complex and dense music textures are handled with ease, and dynamically demanding passages are sailed through
- Articulate midrange
- Detailed and realistic bass
Product Considerations
- Removing/installing tube cages is difficult and time-consuming
- The loudspeaker binding posts are positioned too close to the output transformers, making it hard to tighten them properly
- Some assembly work appeared amateurish, specifically the use of silicone in various locations, such as fastening chassis wires
- The amplifier can operate quite hot
- May not have as much bass impact compared to solid state amps
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The EAR 890 monoblocks achieve SET-like definition along with the authority and swagger necessary for most full-size speaker systems, when compared to Cary Audio 300B SET amps
- The EAR 890 is as textured as the top LAMM designs, but with noticeably better neutrality and more power
- The EAR 890 surpassed the deHavilland KE50As with a more articulate midrange, producing more color and separation in the microtones of instruments
Takeaway: The EAR 890 is easy to set up and sounds good with very little tweaking, making it easy to just sit back, relax, and enjoy the music. It's a good choice for people who want a tube amp that is both musical and powerful for their home listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
EAR Yoshino is a British hifi brand where each product is handmade from start to finish by a single engineer, with their amplifiers featuring a unique balanced bridge mode output stage design that assigns separate windings to each electrode on the output transformer. Their tube-based equipment, inspired by founder Tim de Paravicini's professional recording studio experience, is used by renowned artists like Pink Floyd and Mobile Fidelity Sound Labs.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Rotel
RMB-1585MKII
4299
/
Released
2023
Rotel's new RMB-1585MKII 5-channel amplifier continues our heritage of producing high powered, audiophile performance amplifiers for multi-channel systems. Following Rotel's updated MKII design architecture, the RMB-1585MKII incorporates both circuit and component upgrades in the power supply and amplifier stages to delivering ultra-low distortion, signal isolation, and high-gain output power efficiently packaged in a single, multi-channel amplifier chassis.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The RMB-1585MKII delivers 210W per channel at 8 ohms or 340W per channel at 4 ohms, all channels driven
- An oversized toroidal transformer and 120,000µF of filter capacitance ensure clean and solid power delivery
- Thermostat-controlled, variable-speed, low-noise fans keep the amplifier cool
- A bi-amping option is available using channels 1, 2, 4, and 5
- Both RCA and XLR inputs are supported
Product Considerations
- At very close range, a faint hiss can be heard from the tweeter when using the Rotel, though it is not noticeable during regular use
- If not properly ventilated, turning off the fans could shorten the amplifier's lifespan
- Its weight of 82lbs may require assistance when moving or installing
- Those seeking a warm, buttery tube sound or holographic presentation of class-A designs may want to consider other options
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Anthem AZ7000ES receiver, the RMB-1585MKII produces a bigger soundstage with cleaner details, especially when pushed loud—and a more three-dimensional sound
Takeaway: The Rotel RMB-1585MKII is a powerful amplifier that provides clean and dynamic sound for a home theater or music system. Its robust build and features, like the bi-amping option and cooling system, make it a great choice for taking any system to the next level.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Product Page
Product Page
Rotel
RMB-1587MKII
4499
/
Released
2023
Rotel's new RMB-1587MKII 7-channel amplifier continues our heritage of producing high powered, perfectionist amplifiers for multi-channel systems. Following Rotel's MKII design architecture, the RMB-1587MKII incorporates significant circuit and component upgrades in both the power supply and amplifier stages achieving ultra-low distortion, signal isolation, and high-gain output power efficiently packaged in a single, multi-channel amplifier chassis.
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Oversized Toroidal transformer allows it to produce the dynamics of a movie soundtrack without running out of power or clipping, keeping distortion low at all volumes
- Smart auto-switching XLR and RCA inputs make installation a simple plug-and-play process
- High-quality gold-plated binding posts for each channel allow users to choose banana plugs or spades
- Thermostat-controlled variable speed low-noise fans keep the amplifier cool, especially when installed in tight rack spaces
Product Considerations
- Turning the fans off might be an option if placed in the listening room and well-ventilated, but it will make the amplifiers run hotter and could shorten their lifespan if the fans are turned off without proper ventilation
- This Rotel is not for someone who likes a warm and buttery tube sound or wants the holographic presentation of great class-A designs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs inexpensive class D multi-channel amplifiers, the RMB-1587MKII has a solidity to its sound that one won't find in some of the inexpensive class D multi-channel amplifiers
- Soundstage and imaging were solid—only bettered by much more expensive amplifiers that are dedicated to two-channel audio
Takeaway: The RMB-1587MKII is a solid option for people wanting to take their theater system to the next level, because it delivers clean, solid power with smart features. It will give users years of trouble-free enjoyment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rotel is a family-owned hifi brand that maintains control over its entire manufacturing process, including producing their own custom toroidal transformers for superior audio performance. Through their Balanced Design Concept and Michi high-end line, Rotel focuses on long-term product development cycles rather than frequent launches, emphasizing genuine performance improvements through careful component selection and circuit design.
Product Page
Product Page
NAD
M23
3749
/
Released
2022
Building on NAD's long tradition of identifying and developing cutting-edge amplification technology, the M23 HybridDigital Stereo Power Amplifier features Purifi Audio's Eigentakt™ design, a once-in-a-decade innovation that virtually eliminates harmonic and intermodulation distortion. Noise is inaudible, for a completely black background and exquisite micro-detail. Conservatively rated at 2x200W continuous into 8 ohms and 2x380W into 4 ohms, the M23 can deliver live performance levels through any loudspeaker.
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The M23's build quality feels solid and elegant, with impressive small design details
- The sound is striking in its purity and clarity
- It offers up to three levels of gain, switchable on the back panel, to best fit the system
- It provides a clear sound without sounding hard
- It features Purifi Eigentakt Class D amplification, which provides virtually unmeasurable distortion levels
Product Considerations
- The bass is clean but may be perceived as a little on the cool side and not as 'wompy-sounding'
- The M23 is not a forgiving amplifier that makes everything sound sweet and wonderful—it's not for those seeking a soft and mellow sound
- Bridging with speakers below 5 or 6 ohms is not recommended, as the amp will current limit and potentially shut down
- The reviewer found ergonomical challenges using fancy speaker cables in bridged mode due to wide terminal spacing
- The capacitive touch power button can accidentally trigger
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bel Canto C6i: The M23 offered a layer of refinement and better reproduction of the recording space
- Vs Pass XA25: The M23 had more transparent sound and detail, especially in the treble and upper mids, but lacked the organic quality of the XA25
- Vs HiFi Rose RS 520: The M23 sounded cleaner and had better separation/depth, HiFi Rose seemed to have an EQ built-in, emphasizing midrange and bass
- Vs NAD C298: The M23 is more neutral, deals with decay more naturally, and has better casework, making it look high-end
- Vs Anthem M1 monoblock amplifiers: The M23 was slightly more transparent throughout the entire frequency range
- Vs Bryston 4B 3: The Bryston had more grunt but the M23 is more neutral
Takeaway: The NAD M23 is a powerful and precise amplifier that delivers clean and clear sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want to hear their music as accurately as possible. It is especially well-suited for those looking to build a high-end system around a quality preamp or DAC.
Video review
Our take on the brand
NAD Electronics pioneered affordable hifi equipment by focusing on essential features for good sound, with their classic NAD 3020 becoming the best-selling hifi amplifier in history. Their Masters Series features DirectDigital technology, the world's first closed-loop digital amplification that corrects output every 10 nanoseconds.
Product Page
Product Page
Parasound
Halo A52+
4199
/
Released
The Parasound A52+ is a versatile five-channel amplifier, delivering 180 watts per channel at 8 ohms. Its high-current design ensures powerful, clear sound, making it ideal for multi-room audio setups or home theaters. The A52+ combines power, efficiency, and precision to bring out the best in your speakers, whether used in stereo, multi-channel, or surround sound configurations.
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers ample, clean, and dynamic power to all channels, ensuring speakers reach their full potential
- Designed by John Curl, featuring Class A/AB circuitry for a balance of warmth, richness, efficiency, and punch
- Pleasing sound for dialogue and music, with very high-quality and detail
- Versatile, suitable for both movies and music, with a low noise floor for quiet passages and great transparency—that doesn't color the sound
- Built to last, with high-quality internal components
- Signal-sensing power-on mode can be fussy and may require adjustment
Product Considerations
- Super heavy and large, potentially requiring rearranging a system or dedicated rack space
- Only available in anodized black
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The A52 Plus has bigger parts and bigger power than the Outlaw Model 5000, including balanced XLR connections
- A52 Plus is the 'teenager' compared to the elder Parasound A51
- Parasound A52+ sounds better, is more accurate, and more powerful than the Denon receiver's amplifier section
Takeaway: The Parasound A52+ Halo is a versatile and powerful amplifier that delivers clean, dynamic sound for both home theater and music systems, with a build quality designed to last. This is a worthy investment for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts who seek high-quality audio performance.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Parasound amplifiers are a favorite among hi-fi dealers because they offer a ton of power and performance without hitting crazy price levels. Designed by John Curl, their hifi and home theater amps are known for clean, neutral sound and an ability to power just about any system with ease. Sure, you can find better amps, but they come with serious diminishing returns. For a lot of people, Parasound hits that sweet spot where you feel like you’ve reached the endgame without spending a fortune.
Product Page
Product Page
Orchard Audio
Starkrimson Stereo Ultra DMC 2.5
4249
/
Released
2021
The Starkrimson® Stereo Ultra DMC offers phenomenal sonic performance. Its advanced design and meticulous construction ensure exceptional clarity, power, and dynamic range. Experience the nuances of your favorite recordings with crystal clear detail and realism. A must-have for discerning audiophiles, and music lovers/enthusiasts seeking to elevate their musical experience.
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
- Exceptionally transparent sound output quality
- Exceptionally powerful, capable of outputting 500W into a 4-Ohm load
- Delivers a remarkably clean, transparent sound with very little noise or distortion
- The amplifier's ability to reproduce bass is awe-inspiring and delivers deep, powerful bass without distortion
- Runs cool and weighs very little for its sound output, making it easy to move around
Product Considerations
- Options can be a little pricy, such as the 12v trigger and RCA inputs
- The Starkrimson Stereo Ultra may lead to further system upgrades
- Depending on your sources, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra will play exactly what you feed it, good or bad, and if your source components are slow, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra will not speed them up
- Power on only after all connections are properly made, including the power cord, analog inputs, and speaker outputs, and wait five minutes after powering it off before removing any of the connections
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Krell S550i integrated amp, the Starkrimson Stereo Ultra showed a much faster and finer resolution of the upper frequencies of the human voice and a far greater ability to play more of the microdetails of a recording
Takeaway: The Starkrimson amplifier is well-built and provides a level of speed and transparency to hifi music that makes listening to music very fun. Its GaN modules can be upgraded and it is available in several configurations.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.
