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.
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SA-C100
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Manufacturer details
- Output Power: 50W + 50W (1kHz, T.H.D. 1.0%, 4Ω, 20kHz LPF)
- FTC Output Power: 20W + 20W (20-20kHz,THD+N:1.0%,8Ω)
- Load Impedance: 4Ω-16Ω
- Frequency Response - Phono: 20Hz - 20kHz (RIAA DEVIATION ±1dB, 8Ω)
- Frequency Response - Line: 20Hz - 80kHz (-3dB, 8Ω)
- Frequency Response - Digital: 20Hz - 90kHz (-3dB, 8Ω)
- Input Sensitivity/Impedance: PHONO (MM) 2.5 mV / 47 kΩ, LINE 200 mV / 22 kΩ
- Dimensions (W x H x D): 340 mm × 94 mm × 341 mm
- Weight: 4.8 kg
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Very fine sense of detail, especially in the midrange and treble
- Forward presentation makes instrumentalists and vocalists seem to step out in front of the speakers
- The controls have a luscious feel
- The amplifier is beautifully made with that thick gleaming fascia exciting unequivocal admiration
- Rhythmic nuances and microdynamics propelled musical lines along with foot tapping gusto
Product Considerations
- There's a small degree of hum from the mains transformer
- Can be fatiguing to listen to for long periods, especially with aggressive recordings
- Lacks the last word in texture and extension in the bass
- Doesn't present sharply defined three-dimensional images
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Blue Circle BC3/BC3.1 and Muse 150 monoblock amps, EAR 834 has softer and less extended bass, slightly less overall detail and clarity, and a somewhat foreshortened soundstage
- Vs E.A.R. 802 preamp combined with a CLASSÉ CA 100 amplifier, the 802/CA 100 combination was quite similar in sound to the 834
Takeaway: The EAR 834 is beautifully made, looks great, and has a special sound that can really draw you into the music and make you feel like you are there. It is an integrated amplifier with a design that invites extended listening sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Experience Every Detail in Your Music
The Galion TS A20, a brainchild of Fabien Tremblay from Quebec, represents a collaboration with Galion to bring forth a top-tier Class A 20w push-pull power amplifier, meticulously crafted in Canada. Distinguished by its unparalleled resolution, the TS A20 offers an auditory experience like no other, unveiling previously unnoticed nuances across treble, midrange, and bass frequencies. Its exceptional performance is further complemented by a rich, full-bodied midrange, a hallmark of Class A amplifiers, setting a new standard in audio fidelity.
Sound Characteristics
The Galion TS A20 Class A power amplifier excels in delivering a highly detailed treble with an extended decay, creating a sense of spaciousness and airiness. The midrange is a true hallmark of Class A amplification, offering a unique blend of body, clarity, and smoothness while maintaining that linearity common to class A amplifiers. Surprisingly, the TS A20 also offers tight, strong, and nuanced bass, a feature not commonly associated with Class A amps. The soundstage is impressively airy, rivaling many tube amplifiers. Perhaps most unexpected is the amplifier's dynamic contrast; despite its modest 20W output, the TS A20 provides some of the best dynamic range available in its price category, outperforming many Class A, AB, and D amplifiers. This class A amp sounds like a true class A which is characterized by a linear lower mid upper bass.
400k microfarads Capacitance!
The TS A20 amplifier stands out from most amplifiers on the market with its massive 400,000 microfarad capacitor bank, dwarfing the typical 40,000 microfarad capacitance found in other amps. This ingenious design allows the A20 to connect to such a high capacitor bank without any stability issues.
Despite having a modest 20 watt power rating, the A20's substantial capacitor reserve enables it to deliver exceptional bass performance and dynamics that surpass expectations for an amplifier of its size. The simple yet innovative design leverages this immense capacitance to achieve a level of low-end response and transient fidelity rarely seen in amplifiers of this class.
In summary, the TS A20 defies conventional wisdom by harnessing a capacitor bank an order of magnitude larger than the norm, translating to bass reproduction and dynamics that punch well above the amp's weight class.
Holographic 3D Soundstage
The TS A20 amplifier employs a current feedback design, setting it apart from the majority of amplifiers on the market, which typically use voltage feedback designs. One of the key strengths of this design is its exceptional soundstage. The TS A20 delivers a 3D, airy soundstage that is unparalleled by many amplifiers within its price range.
Exotic Capacitors
The TS A20 amplifier stands out in its price range by incorporating exceptionally high-end capacitors, a feature rarely seen at this level. While most amplifiers use capacitors priced between $2 and $30, the TS A20 utilizes capacitors that retail for over $400 USD. This amplifier includes three main capacitors, each contributing uniquely to its superior sound quality.
Firstly, the USA-made Jupiter copper foil paper and wax capacitor is renowned for its natural tone. Secondly, the Jupiter VitaminQ capacitor, also made in the USA, is celebrated for producing an exceptionally lush midrange. Lastly, the Jupiter Vintage tone capacitor enhances the depth of the soundstage. The synergy of these three capacitors results in the TS A20 delivering a highly resolving, smooth midrange with a profound soundstage.
Quality Components
The TS A20 is the result of our unwavering commitment to excellence, where every detail matters and quality is paramount. We've gone the extra mile to source only the finest components for this masterpiece. Take, for instance, the RCA inputs and speaker connectors. These aren't your run-of-the-mill, budget-friendly options you might find on AliExpress. Instead, we've opted for the superior CMC connectors, meticulously imported from Taiwan, to ensure unparalleled quality and performance.
Our dedication to excellence didn't stop there. We embarked on an exhaustive testing journey, experimenting with connectors made of rhodium, silver, copper, and bronze. Our goal was simple: to identify and select the absolute best, leaving no stone unturned in our quest for perfection. This meticulous approach underscores our philosophy that cutting corners is not an option when it comes to delivering top-tier components.
We're also proud to say that our commitment to quality extends beyond the product itself to its presentation. The packaging box, designed and manufactured right here in North America, is a testament to our dedication to supporting local craftsmanship and ensuring that every aspect of the TS A20 reflects our no-compromise philosophy.
Reliability and Longevity
Class A amplifiers are known for their exceptional sound quality, but they also generate significant amounts of heat due to their design principle of keeping the output devices conducting at all times. This heat can potentially degrade components over time and reduce the amplifier's lifespan if not properly managed. We have engineered the TS A20 amplifier with a focus on longevity and performance. The amplifier features an oversized chassis that provides ample surface area for effective heat dissipation. This design choice ensures that the heatsinks operate at a moderate temperature of around 45°C (113°F) under normal operating conditions, rather than reaching high temperatures that could compromise the amplifier's reliability.
In addition, we have carefully selected high-quality components during the manufacturing process. This attention to detail not only contributes to the amplifier's sonic excellence but also enhances its durability and lifespan. We believe that a well-designed Class A amplifier should deliver exceptional audio performance while ensuring years of reliable service for our customers. The TS A20 embodies this philosophy, combining meticulous engineering with premium components to create a product that stands the test of time.
An Amplifier for Life
The TS A20 amplifier includes a two-year warranty, but it is engineered for a lifetime of use. A common issue with servicing amplifiers over extended periods is the discontinuation of certain parts. To address this, we have stocked additional components for the TS A20, ensuring that it remains serviceable for years to come.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and airy treble provides a holographic and three-dimensional soundstage
- Musical, transparent, and realistic mid-range
- High-quality internal components are used, including expensive capacitors
- Class A performance with less heat compared to some other Class A amps
- Well-constructed and uses parts sourced from North America
- Only has RCA inputs, no balanced inputs
Product Considerations
- Bass quality may be perceived as loose or lacking control compared to some other amplifiers
- Pairing with the right preamp is crucial to achieve desired sound characteristics
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Pass Labs XA-25, the TS-A20 has more detail and air in the treble, while the XA-25 is warmer and richer in the mid-band
- Vs AGD AGR2, the TS-A20 is richer and warmer, while the AGR2 has better bass articulation, quickness, and separation
Takeaway: The Galleon TS-A20 is a well-built Class A amplifier known for its detailed, airy sound and holographic imaging. It's a great option for listeners seeking a transparent and realistic sound signature with quality components.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The LM-845IA is a quality upgrade of the old LM-518 amplifier. It delivers twenty-two watts per channel. Single ended design, Pure Class A, Integrated Stereo Amplifier with 845 output power tubes. The rear-illuminated front panel meter is used to adjust the polarization of the tubes. The use of high quality components (Realcap capacitors, ALPS potentiometer) wired in the air for the most part is the guarantee of exemplary reliability. Its transformers output are of EI type, specially disigned for power supply.
Product Strengths
- Pellucid sound, rich tone, and textural detail are characteristic of a well-designed single-ended triode (SET) amplifier.
- Forceful and tuneful bass defies the stereotype of slow or puffy bass in SET amps.
- Expansive soundstage allows instruments and voices to float free of speakers.
- High build quality includes point-to-point wiring and quality components, such as an ALPS potentiometer and RealCap capacitors.
- Dynamic slam and a physically involving sound
Product Considerations
- The 845 tubes operate at high temperatures, potentially causing burns if touched and significantly increasing room temperature.
- No balance control
- Some found the stock tubes to impart an aggressive or steely tone that could be improved with tube rolling.
- Careful matching with speakers is required, one reviewer noted inexplicably harsh sound when paired with certain speakers.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LM-845IA has changes to internal components and redesigned output transformers, compared to the LM-518IA.
- The LM-845IA has a lighter touch and more refinement, while the Gold Note PA-10 monoblocks sound more solid in the bass.
- The LM-845iA offers a more powerful punch, while the Kora TB140 sounds lighter on its feet and faster.
- The Ayre EX-8 edges out the LM-845iA in clarity and detail.
- The Cambridge Audio Edge NQ sounds similar, but can't quite match the realism or the directness of the Line Magnetic.
Takeaway: The Line Magnetic LM-845IA is a powerful tube amplifier that offers a unique and engaging listening experience. It's a good choice for audiophiles who want a robust and resolving sound with dynamic contrasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
The R-800i series uses two 300B tubes to drive various vacuum tubes for single-ended class A amplification. It comprises a dual triode ECC83S and two 6SN7 signal amplification and driving tubes. The pre-stage part employs a 274B tube for rectification, allowing each channel to achieve an output power of 15W/30W/50W.
R800i – 211
The R-800i – 211 uses two 300B tubes to drive 211 vacuum tubes for single-ended class A amplification. It comprises a dual triode ECC83S and two 6SN7 signal amplification and driving tubes. The pre-stage part employs a 274B tube for rectification, allowing each channel to achieve an output power of 15W.
R800i – 845
The R-800i – 845 uses two 300B tubes to drive 845 vacuum tubes for single-ended class A amplification. It comprises a dual triode ECC83S and two 6SN7 signal amplification and driving tubes. The pre-stage part employs a 274B tube for rectification, allowing each channel to achieve an output power of 30W.
R800i – 805
The R-800i – 805 uses two 300B tubes to drive 805 vacuum tubes for single-ended class A amplification. It comprises a dual triode ECC83S and two 6SN7 signal amplification and driving tubes. The pre-stage part employs a 274B tube for rectification, allowing each channel to achieve an output power of 50W.
This series features a dual power transformer design, with the filament using an EI-type transformer and the high voltage employing a toroidal transformer design. The output transformers use two wide-frequency EI types to achieve a sweet sound. It incorporates a dual protection circuit design, an all-aluminum alloy body for the utmost refinement, handcrafted point-to-point soldering, an external, independent BIAS ADJ current monitoring meter, a 30-second mute delay function, ALPS motorized potentiometers, an all-aluminum alloy remote control, and balanced pure post-stage input functionality, allowing for independent pre-stage signal input. The body is made from aviation-grade aluminum alloy. The external independent dB level current display meter and current adjustment points. High-grade ALPS motorized potentiometers made in Japan. High-end speaker connectors are made in Germany, and CNC-machined copper terminals.
Product Strengths
- Produces 48 watts of pure single-ended Class A power, suitable for low to medium sensitivity speakers
- Superbly well constructed with heavy gauge metal and no plastic; even the remote control is all metal
- Has a warm tonal balance with a full, harmonically rich midrange and no electronic glare, allowing for long listening sessions without fatigue
- Delivers a huge, massive soundstage that extends way beyond the speakers left and right—with immense soundstage depth
- Tube rolling can significantly improve its performance
Product Considerations
- The amplifier is quite heavy, weighing 42 kilograms (around 100 pounds), making it difficult to move
- Generates a lot of heat due to its Class A operation, requiring good ventilation and potentially increasing electricity bills
- The remote's volume adjustment jumps too much, making fine-tuning difficult
- Willsenton is not a brand with a long history, so long-term reliability is unknown, but the unit can be serviced in the owner's country
- The signal-to-noise ratio is higher compared to some other amplifiers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Willsenton R8: The R800i is better in all regards, more refined, with more midrange clarity and nuance in the bass
- Vs Hegel H190: The R800i has a thumping bassline, a colossal soundstage, and an acoustic mass in the midrange, while the Hegel H190 has greater clarity and tighter control in the bottom end
- Vs Sugden A21 Signature: The R800i is very Sugden-esque in its sonic character, and it reminds the reviewer a lot of the A21 Signature but with more power
- Vs Exposure 21 pre and 18 super monoblocks: R800i has bigger scale, adding harmonic richness
- Vs Luxman SQN150: The R800i's soundstage is double the size of the Luxman
Takeaway: The R800i is a powerful, well-built tube amplifier that delivers a warm, engaging sound with a massive soundstage, making it great for those who love a classic tube sound. With its ability to drive most speakers and potential for tube rolling, it is an amplifier that could be enjoyed for years to come.
Video review
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What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile connectivity, including network streaming, CD player, phono stage, and digital inputs
- Entertaining, expressive, and punchy sound
- Easy to use, with a well-designed app and a sensible remote handset
- Good MM phono stage
- Compact and elegant design
Product Considerations
- Setting up without the app can be clumsy
- The headphone output may not be ideal
- The line-level input could sound better
Takeaway: The SA-C600 is a well-featured and easy-to-use system with great sound, so listeners can enjoy their music from many different sources. It is a compact and convenient way to enjoy high-quality audio without clutter.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Joyful sound signature with detailed output
- Can power a wide range of headphones, due to Ultima technology
- Compact design, stacks perfectly with the Qutest and Huei
- Employs trickle-down Ultima technology to allow delivery of enormous peak current outputs
- Solid build quality using CNC-milled aluminum casework and good heat dissipation
- Connectivity options include headphone and speaker outputs
Product Considerations
- No gain switch for the headphone output
- Default gain level a bit high for sensitive IEMs
- More power limitations with speakers than headphones—best for smaller, efficient speakers or nearfield listening
- Runs hot, requiring good ventilation
- The volume control feels a little wobbly and might be difficult to use in a very precise way, and there is some channel imbalance at very low volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Qutest/Anni pairing justifies its price premium thanks to a more composed and insightful presentation that offers notably more low-end authority, dynamic punch and tonal richness
- Cyrus ONE HD is plusher, showing that Anni has strong niche appeal
- The iFi xDSD Gryphon has digital inputs and built-in DAC, while Anni can power speakers
Takeaway: The Chord Electronics Anni is a compact and well-built amplifier that delivers a joyful and detailed sound, making it a great addition to a desktop setup for headphone and nearfield speaker listening. Its use of trickle-down Ultima technology ensures high-quality performance in a small package, and its ability to stack with other Chord devices makes it a good choice for those already invested in the ecosystem.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Retains the enthusiastic sonic character of the original Nait 1, described as zippy, energetic, and likeable, with ample detail and clarity
- Has an all-new discrete transistor MM phono stage
- Has a new headphone amplifier borrowed from the NSC 222 streaming preamp
- Possesses ample grunt to drive a wide variety of speakers
- Features a retro-modern design that is charming and timeless, with solid build quality
Product Considerations
- Has no remote control
- The volume dial makes subtle volume adjustments difficult, going from quiet to loud too quickly
- Uses DIN connectors for the line-level analogue inputs, requiring adaptors for RCA connections, but no DIN cable is included
- On powering up, a thump is followed by a plop when switching in from standby
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Naim Nait XS 3: Nait 50 is punchier, cleaner, more precise, and lively
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: NAIT 50 feels more old school Naim
Takeaway: The Naim Nait 50 offers a fun and engaging listening experience with a retro design that will fit in any listening room, either old or new. It can serve as a workhorse in a reference system and headphone rig.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very clean, transparent sound, faithfully mirroring the source material and capable of resolving micro-details
- Ample power to drive even the most demanding headphones, with refined power that allows nuances to play on the micro scale, especially with high-performance DACs
- Great soundstage size
- The noise floor has been lowered with the newest power modules resulting in more clarity
Product Considerations
- May run hotter
- High listening volumes can cause ears to ring
- Some reviewers found that the soundstage depth was limited compared to some other amplifiers
- Can reveal harshness in recordings or other equipment in the chain
- Noise may be present when used with very sensitive IEMs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Treble is more natural compared to the Old Soloist 3XGT, while bass and midrange are more textured
- The newer version has greater separation and clarity compared to the Old Soloist 3XGT, while the older version sounds a little thicker overall
- Much more clear than Exposure 21 pre and 18 super monoblocks
- It has better clarity, grip and control than Hegel H190
- It can match the Denafrips Hades Thalo in clarity
- The SP-2 upgraded Soloist goes toe-to-toe with the Enleum AMP23R
Takeaway: The Soloist recgviNbkfbno9pQR is a very capable headphone amplifier that provides a clean and powerful sound, suitable for a wide range of headphones. The lower noise and detail retrieval make it a very good choice for audiophiles seeking a high-performance listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Fezz Audio Alfa Lupi offers clarity, purity, and spice in its sound
- It creates a speaker-defying sound image that feels defined and spread out
- Nimble dynamic swings and billowy sound image make for an engaging world of sound
Product Considerations
- Any 10 Watt amp needs to be paired with speakers that come alive with little power
- Driving the Fezz Audio amp too far results in a hardening and flattening of the sound image
Takeaway: The Fezz Audio Alfa Lupi makes sweet music with the right speakers, offering delicacy, control, and delight. It is a simple and easy-to-use amp that creates an engaging world of sound.
Video review
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