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
- Indiana Jones-like wooden crate
- Lovely front panels with Rupert Neve-level metal and texture
- Nice, vented covers with thick Lexan prevent Chewbacca from sticking her ass on the tube
- More power and headroom, even at eight watts
Product Considerations
- The rest looks like a glittery skateboard, a little much
- Upon arrival, one was labeled A and one labeled B with terrible masking tape
- If turned on, they must cool down for two minutes and not be moved for 20 minutes after running
- Must be kept separate because the electromagnetic interference of one power transformer can interfere with the other, causing noise issues
- The finish is made in Greece
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- It outperforms the Audio Valve Solaris for speakers
Takeaway: The Tsakiridis Devices Achilles are tube amps that enhance sound like an IFI X space, improving music across the frequency range with smoothness and creaminess. They are for specifically high efficiency speakers.
All
Achilles
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Manufacturer details
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:
- Tsakiridis devices are handcrafted in Greece using high-quality components, offering a boutique feel and personalized attention to detail in their construction.
- The brand uniquely combines tube and solid-state technologies in their designs to achieve a balance of sonic characteristics, such as lushness with accurate signal reproduction.
- They offer a range of user-adjustable settings on their amplifiers, such as feedback and triode/ultralinear modes, empowering users to tailor the sound to their preferences and system synergy.
Select products
ACHILLES ULTIMA
- Positioning: A low-power tube amplifier designed for small rooms and high sensitivity speakers.
- Description: Stands out with its class A 300B triode design and mu-stage driving circuit that deliver a characterful tube sound with modest power output. Compared to the higher power amplifiers in the lineup, it is best suited for buyers with a limited budget and use cases focused on intimate listening environments rather than driving large loudspeakers.
ALEXANDER ULTIMA
- Positioning: A class A line preamplifier with an MM phono stage aimed at high signal purity.
- Description: Features separate power supply transformers and a choke for filtering that help stabilize the tube circuits for clear sound reproduction. In contrast to the standalone power amplifiers, its versatile input routing and control functions serve buyers who already have a power amplifier.
REFERENCE AMPLIFIER
- Positioning: An integrated amplifier combining power amplification with preamplifier functions and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Description: Features a built-in surveillance circuit and multi-input design including Bluetooth v5.0, offering comprehensive functionality in one unit. Compared to the other products, its blend of connectivity, tube monitoring, and moderate power output provides an all-in-one solution with advanced features.
APOLLON ULTIMA
- Positioning: A high-power monoblock amplifier engineered to drive power-hungry loudspeakers in larger spaces.
- Description: Features a dual push-pull design and handmade 16-layer output transformers that provide robust performance and detailed sound reproduction. When compared to the rest of the lineup, it delivers significantly higher power.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Tsakiridis
What if you spend more?
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.
Our summary
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
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
Product Strengths
- Combines comprehensive functionality, connectivity and usability with good performance, and elegant design
- Exceptional sound quality is described as refined, muscular, detailed, confident, transparent, and natural
- Easy to use, has a great control app, a remote, and an intuitive interface that removes itself from the system
- Well-built with premium materials, including CNC-machined aluminum casework, finned heat sinks, and a hefty toroidal transformer
- Has a musicality that makes it hard to be objective about, the music flows as you listen and makes you want to repeat
Product Considerations
- Overheating may occur due to undersized heatsinks under demanding conditions
- Naim's speaker connectors may be unique, although banana plugs are an acceptable workaround
- Although a detail performer, it isn't the quietest digital source or imaging performer in the market
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Uniti Star: The Nova has a more substantial amplifier section, with greater current delivery and stability into tricky loads
- Vs SuperUniti: The Nova offers a more dynamic, detailed, fluid, and natural sound–with a bigger soundstage
- Vs Chord Electronics CPM2800 MkII: The Nova is closer spiritually to separates like the Chord CPM2800 MkII than to other all-in-one systems
- Vs NAD M10: The Naim Unit Nova has full unwavering control of the entire frequency range, from the deepest chest-thumping bass to the most delicate highs
- Vs Naim Uniti Atom: The Nova has more power to get a good result in bigger rooms, whereas the Atom needs to be in a smaller room
Takeaway: The Naim Uniti Nova is a well-designed and easy-to-use all-in-one system that combines comprehensive functionality with very good sound quality. It's a good choice for those who want a convenient and high-performing audio solution without the complexity of separates.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Luxman’s new generation Z series integrated amplifiers. The L-507Z is the debut model heralding our new generation of amplifier products. Featuring our newly developed LIFES amplification feedback engine, we look towards the future of Luxman. This amplifier has realized a dramatic development in musicality that goes far beyond its class. L-507Z combines advanced technology and sophisticated functionality. Our new, innovative Z series integrated amplifier generation begins with this superb model.
Product Strengths
- Delivers music with a very pure, low-grain tonality, not compromised by frequency response or dynamic trickery
- Beautifully crafted with a traditional, recognizable Luxman aesthetic and excellent build quality
- Has enough power to drive a wide range of speakers
- Possesses a good moving magnet (MM) and moving coil (MC) phono stage
- Features the new Luxman Integrated Feedback Engine System (LIFES) amplifier topology
Product Considerations
- The volume control can be finicky and hard to dial in
- Some reviewers wished it had separate phono inputs for MM and MC cartridges, instead of a selectable one
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Hegel H590, the Hegel has more relaxed sound, while the Luxman has a more forward presentation, brilliance and sheen—the Hegel had better bass control
- The 507Z is a step up from the Luxman L-507UX2 with improved aesthetics, including a new LED display
- Versus the Luxman L-590II (Class A), the L-590II is slightly warmer, but less dynamic
- Some 509X owners preferred the Luxman L-507Z
Takeaway: The Luxman L-507Z is a beautiful and well-built amplifier that produces pure, high-quality sound. It has enough power for most speakers and offers versatile features like tone controls and a phono stage, making it a great choice for an all-in-one audio solution.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent tube character
- Creates a good atmosphere and has a distinct personality
- Good horizontal image development and detail retrieval, especially in depth
- Very good extension, body, and damping in the high frequencies, leading to pleasant and accurate sound
Product Considerations
- The bass might be perceived as a bit strict in the lowest octave
- May not be comfortable with difficult or insensitive speakers in large rooms
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Alexander has a noise level practically equal to that of the Mystere CA11
Takeaway: The Tsakiridis Alexander/Apollon system is an interesting option for those seeking a fully tube-based system with good driving capabilities, flexible connections, and an interesting sonic character. It provides excellent tube sound and good control of the output stage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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
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
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
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Offers both voltage-driven and current-driven amplifier circuits, providing versatility in driving different headphone types
- Fully discrete, zero-feedback circuit design contributes to a sweeter and more natural sound
- Battery-powered, offering portability and the ability to use it in locations without AC power
- High-quality craftsmanship, solid build with aluminum case
- Expertly controls headphone drivers, offering immaculate bass slam
Product Considerations
- The price tag is high
- Size is large for a portable device
- It is a single-ended only amplifier
- The volume control may be somewhat inconvenient
- Battery life is limited to about 5 hours on voltage circuit and 3 hours on current circuit
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The HPA-23RM has a slightly less refined treble response and separation isn't quite as good when compared to Enleum AMP-23R; the AMP-23R had more weight behind the notes and a greater sense of transparency
- The Chord Hugo TT2 separates vocals more nicely, while the HPA-23RM is smoother
Takeaway: The HPA-23RM is a versatile and well-designed headphone amplifier, great for users looking for a transportable amp with multiple amplification circuits. It delivers high-quality sound and can drive demanding headphones, offering a unique listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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