Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • 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.

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

Apollon Plus

reviews

[{"title":"Tsakiridis Devices Alexander/Apollon Plus","link":"https://avmentor.gr/reviews/group_test_pre_power_amps_4k_2011_6.htm","source":"AVMentor","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

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.

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.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
4
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
366
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
20
Founding Year
1987

Our take on the brand

Tsakiridis Devices is a Greek manufacturer of handcrafted tube amplifiers that delivers high-end sound quality at affordable prices, with their products often matching the performance of much more expensive brands. Their amplifiers feature simple circuits with minimal feedback to showcase the natural valve sound, and offer unique flexibility like manually adjusting bias settings and switching between different output tubes and modes.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Enleum
AMP-23R
6250
6250
/
19
Reviews

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

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

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

Takeaway:

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Feliks Audio is a Polish brand that handcrafts tube amplifiers, including their flagship Envy model which features single-crystal copper wiring and 300B tubes known for their linearity and low distortion. Their amplifiers stand out for their ability to drive both high-impedance dynamic and planar magnetic headphones, which is uncommon among tube amplifiers, while maintaining a low noise floor and delivering natural, warm sound.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Naim
Uniti Nova
6899
6899
/
13
Reviews
Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
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Expand Details

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

Naim Audio is renowned for its distinctive "Naim sound," which focuses on timing accuracy and a unique harmonic distortion profile that creates a musical flow. The brand's meticulous approach involves extensive R&D and proprietary components like custom transistors and power supplies, as seen in their Uniti range which combines streaming capabilities with their signature sound characteristics.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Luxman
L-507Z
8995
8995
/
11
Reviews

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.

Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
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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

Luxman is distinguished by its proprietary LECUA volume control technology and unique negative feedback system, both designed to maintain exceptional sound quality at low volumes while reducing distortion. The brand's integrated amplifiers feature precision resistors, advanced phono preamps, and rare tone controls that allow users to fine-tune their listening experience, all housed in durable, classic-styled components.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

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

Our Summary

Product Strengths

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

Product Considerations

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

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

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

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

Video review

Our take on the brand

Audiolab is a hifi brand known for its unique streaming platform from Pixel Magic, which enables over-the-air updates and wide audio format compatibility including DSD. Their amplifiers and components feature distinctive capabilities like HDMI ARC inputs, user-selectable digital filters for sound customization, and advanced filtering technology in their pre/power amps.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Enleum
HPA-23RM
3000
/
Released
2022
The HPA-23RM is our new reference dedicated headphone amplifier. It is designed for both high-end desktop usage and mobile usage – hence using "R" for reference and "M" for mobile in the product name.
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Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Expand Details

Our Summary

No items found.

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

Enleum is a hifi brand known for its compact yet powerful amplifiers, particularly the AMP-23R, which delivers performance comparable to much larger systems through its unique gain control system and zero negative feedback circuits.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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