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
- High power output allows driving inefficient speakers to large-scale sonic magnificence, even in big rooms
- Microprocessor technology eliminates problems plaguing older multi-tube designs
- Automatic biasing for each tube
- Fault-sensing system can detect if a tube is about to blow and shut it down
- Music is delivered with detail, suppleness, authority, and finesse from top to bottom, no matter the speakers used
Product Considerations
- There's a slightly higher noise floor than its solid-state competitors
- Owners need to be able to handle the amplifier's sheer size and weight of 200 lbs
- Damping factor should be optimized for specific speakers
- May not provide the ultimate in precision and delineation, or the tautest possible control in the bass, compared to solid-state amplifiers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs darTZeel NHB-458 monoblocks: The Siegfried II's midband was rich and attractively creamy, while the darTZeel's midband was somewhat less so, but was not at all thin or bleached
- Vs original Siegfrieds: The Siegfried Series II Reference is a huge improvement over the original in every performance parameter
- Vs VTL's MB-450 Series III Signature: The Siegfried IIs could play 'small' and fast, sounding similar to VTL's MB-450 Series III Signature, but with more power, grip, and slam
- Vs Dan D'Agostino Momentum monoblocks: The Momentums stomped all over the original VTLs, which sounded veiled and lackluster overall
- Vs Top-drawer solid-state amplifiers: The top-drawer solid-state amplifiers will not match the Siegfried in midrange magic and suppleness
Takeaway: The VTL Siegfried II is a powerful tube amplifier with modern technology that delivers a grand and sophisticated sound with a touch of tube magic. It is a user-friendly amp that should provide years of listening pleasure, especially when paired with quality speakers.
All
Siegfried Series II Reference
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Vacuum Tube Complement: 12 x 6550 or KT-88, 1 x 12AT7, 2 x 12BH7
- Output power: Tetrode: 650W, Triode: 330W Into 5Ω
- Input sensitivity: Variable between 1-2V, depending upon DF setting
- Input impedance: 45kΩ
- Load setting: 5Ω
- Optimum load range: 4Ω – 8Ω
- S/N Ratio: -110dB, 120 Hz
- Power consumption: Idle = 600W, Full power = 1500W
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 24 x 24 inches (29.2 x 61 x 61 cm)
- Weight: 200lbs (90Kg) per monoblock unpacked, 325lbs (147Kg) packed
The new Series II version of the renowned Siegfried platform features a complete re-working of the entire signal path. Upgrades include a fully balanced differential input stage driving a differential phase splitter and a lower impedance push-pull output stage with a dramatically improved, fully balanced and enhanced interleaved and coupled output transformer. VTL's engineering brings the renowned sonic performance of the innovative Siegfried Reference platform to even greater heights.
The new Siegfried Reference monoblocks gain further sonic benefits with a shorter, faster and fully balanced negative feedback loop, with zero global negative feedback. The negative feedback loop completely eliminates ringing and requires no capacitor compensation to maintain critical phase integrity and information. The result is an amplifier that remains stable even under the most demanding loads.
Adjustable precision-regulated plate, screen and bias s...
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:
- VTL distinguishes itself by "Making Tubes User Friendly" through features like automated biasing and comprehensive fault sensing, easing the ownership experience.
- They employ a "clean box/dirty box" design, isolating audio amplification circuitry from power supplies and control functions in separate chassis for lower noise.
- VTL's amplifiers offer versatile speaker matching via adjustable damping factor, catering to individual preferences and loudspeaker characteristics.
Select products
ST-85
- Positioning: The entry-level stereo amplifier in VTL's lineup.
- Description: Offers a compact design with 60 watts per channel. Features EL34 tubes that provide a classic VTL sound, which is less powerful compared to the ST-150 but still delivers a large soundstage suitable for smaller speakers and spaces.
ST-150
- Positioning: The mid-range stereo amplifier offering more power than the ST-85.
- Description: With 150 watts per channel, provides a significant power boost over the ST-85. Uses 6550 tubes for enhanced bass and clarity, offering a more dynamic sound than the ST-85.
S-200 Signature
- Positioning: The high-performance stereo amplifier in VTL's Signature series.
- Description: Delivers 200 watts per channel and includes VTL's SmartTube technology for automatic bias adjustment, offering greater ease of use compared to the ST-150. Provides a fully balanced design and user-adjustable damping factor, making it more versatile for different speaker setups than the ST-150.
S-400 Series II Reference
- Positioning: The flagship stereo amplifier in VTL's lineup.
- Description: Offers 300 watts per channel and incorporates groundbreaking features like a fully balanced differential circuit and precision-regulated power supplies, providing superior sound quality and stability. It surpasses the S-200 in power and technological sophistication.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
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?
Used
VTL
What if you spend more?
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a clean and detailed sound, allowing listeners to hear nuances in recordings
- Offers good instrument separation and imaging
- Has a low noise floor, creating a 'black background' and enhancing the listening experience
- Compact size for an A-B amplifier
- Does not have RCA inputs, requiring XLR or TRS balanced connections
Product Considerations
- May not have enough power for inefficient speakers or large rooms
- External power supply 'brick' is large
- No remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The LA90 has a more neutral sound than Cambridge Audio AXA25, which is cleaner and more detailed
- The LA90 comes close to Benchmark AHB2's performance, but does not outperform it in bass impact and soundstage size, and the AHB2 also has more protection systems
- The LA90 offers more vocal clarity and fuller bottom end than Schiit Vidar, but the Vidar is more exciting on top
- Emotiva A1's have more power
Takeaway: The Topping LA-90 Discrete is a small amplifier that produces very clear sound with good detail, making it great for those who already have balanced audio equipment. It could be a nice upgrade for those seeking to hear all the subtleties in their music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Impressive specs and measurements showcase extremely low noise and distortion
- Clean and transparent sound aims for a neutral reproduction of music
- Compact size and sleek design make it suitable for small spaces
- CNC machined aluminum chassis allows for maximum thermal flow to keep the unit running cool
Product Considerations
- Included external power supply is large and heavy, which can be a challenge to hide
- Power output may be limiting, especially with demanding speakers and for high dynamic range tracks
- Bass performance, while tight and controlled, may lack sub-bass extension and impact for some listeners
- Lack of a remote control limits its convenience as an integrated amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Discrete version matches the Topping LA90 IC based unit's exemplary performance, but betters it in power handling
- The Topping LA90 comes close to the Benchmark AHB2 in noise floor and detail retrieval, but the AHB2 has more power, impactful bass, and a bigger soundstage
Takeaway: The Topping LA90 is a compact and technically proficient amplifier that delivers a clean and transparent sound and with impressive specs. It is best suited for those with efficient speakers and a preference for accurate sound reproduction without coloration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Bass performance is taut, detailed, and well-dampened
- Delivers a neutral presentation overall
- Has a solid steel chassis and milled aluminum faceplate
- The A1 is able to drive low impedance speakers with power and grandeur
- Produces 200 watts into 8 ohms and 325-350 watts into 4 ohms
- Only has a single line-level RCA-style input
Product Considerations
- Audible tweeter hiss may be present at idle, especially with highly efficient speakers
- High frequencies are not as smooth at the edges, exhibiting just faint traces of grain when listening at above-average levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Rotel 1592 MkII amp: A1 is notably quieter and more detailed
- Vs Crown XLS Drive Core 2 amps: A1 is equally neutral in tone, has a lower noise floor, and a more consumer-friendly design
- Vs Schiit Vidar: A1 has a larger soundstage
Takeaway: The BasX A1 monoblock amplifier delivers good power and a neutral sound signature. It is a great option for those looking to expand an existing AVR or build a cost-effective hi-fi system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Introducing the Starkrimson Mono Premium audio power amplifier – where innovation meets audio excellence. Groundbreaking gallium nitride (GaN) technology has been seamlessly integrated into every aspect of this audio masterpiece. GaN’s efficiency and precision redefine expectations, delivering crystal-clear, distortion-free sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this amplifier boasts a sleek and modern design that complements any audio setup. The Starkrimson Mono Premium is not just an amplifier; it’s a statement piece that enhances your listening space with both aesthetics and performance. The Starkrimson Mono Premium amplifier provides an immersive journey into the heart of your favorite music. Elevate your audio experience with the pinnacle of GaN technology – the Starkrimson Mono Premium.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- A very quiet background allows detailed music to emerge clearly
- Plenty of power (150W into 8 Ohms) exhibits good control, speed and dynamics
- GaN (Gallium Nitride) technology is used for efficient power throughput and performance, which shakes the bad reputation of Class D amps
- A neutral sound signature aims to reproduce the recording accurately
- Compact size allows for flexible placement and short speaker cables
- Balanced XLR cable connections are required, RCA connections need a separate adapter (sold by Orchard Audio)
Product Considerations
- Visually, the amps may not appeal to those seeking 'audiophile eye candy'
- A power cable is not included unless specified
- A power indicator light is absent
- In certain system pairings, the sound can be analytical or bright
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Starkrimson provides micron-precise separation, while the First Watt F5 thickens things up a touch
- Starkrimson offers more power and benefits from being a monoblock chassis, while the Gold Note IS-10 does not
- Starkrimson offers more power and better control over the bass, as well as speed, compared to the Nakamichi PA-5 Stasis
Takeaway: The Orchard Audio Starkrimson Mono Premium amps deliver power and performance in a small size, and are especially good for audiophiles that seek a neutral sound, lots of detail, and excellent value. These amps could be a great fit for anyone wanting a modern and efficient hifi experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good sound quality, especially in the midrange, leads to vivid and well-formed vocals
- Versatile, it works well with both efficient headphones/IEMs and moderately powered speakers
- Compact design and good build quality, with the chassis acting as a heatsink
- Ability to roll op amps allows users to customize the sound signature
- Ample power for most headphones and nearfield speaker setups
- Only one RCA input, which may be limiting for some users
Product Considerations
- Speaker amplifier power (35-45W) might be insufficient for power-hungry speakers or larger rooms
- The base model op amps are sonically inferior to upgrade options
- Mild turn-off thump present
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Funk has a narrower but deeper soundstage with better imaging and layering than the Arylic A08 Pro
- The Funk has superior imaging, but less potential power output depending on the Arylic's power supply than the Arylic A07/A08 Pro
- The Funk is preferred for desktop speaker setups with Vivid opamps when compared to Schiit Aegir
Takeaway: The Burson Funk is a solid choice for people wanting good sound from both their headphones and speakers in a single, convenient unit. The ability to change the sound by swapping op amps is a welcome feature for those who like to tinker and upgrade.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great value for the money and an attractive price point
- Balanced input and single-ended RCA input
- Op amps are swappable
- Compact form factor
- Versatile with stereo and mono mode
Product Considerations
- The volume control was found to be touchy by some reviewers
- The included power brick is quite large, almost as big as the unit itself
- The binding posts are small
- The RCA input sounds inferior to the XLR input
- The amplifier does not high pass the mains when a subwoofer is plugged in
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Fosi Audio V3: ZA3 is considered a more mature version with stylistic elements and new features like balanced inputs and mono mode, with a naturalness in the tonal quality
- Vs SMSL AO200 MKII: AO200 MKII delivers better clarity, definition, and resolution of the sound
Takeaway: The ZA3 is a versatile and compact amplifier that offers great value, especially for those starting their audio journey. Its ability to be used in both stereo and mono configurations and the option to upgrade components make it a flexible choice for various setups.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, featuring a CNC milled aluminum chassis and durable construction
- Achromatic Audio Amplifier (AAA) technology by THX, aiming for transparent sound reproduction without coloration
- Relay volume control provides precise channel matching
- Plenty of power to drive a wide range of headphones, from sensitive IEMs to demanding planars
- Balanced XLR inputs and outputs
Product Considerations
- No pre-amp output
- The notched volume control might not be to everyone's liking
- Gets quite warm during use, especially with the SU-9 DAC stacked on top
- Some reviewers noticed a clicking noise when adjusting the volume
- The three-feet design may not be as stable as a four-feet design
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. SMSL SP200: Better unit at repelling noise, with a higher signal-to-noise ratio and lower total harmonic distortion—completely solved the SP200's issue with not having a pitch-black background
- Vs. Benchmark HPA4: Very close to the HPA4 in performance, with some minor differences observed only with high-end headphones
Takeaway: The SMSL SH-9 is a well-built and powerful headphone amplifier with a clean, transparent sound. It is a good choice for audiophiles looking for an accurate and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Budget-friendly headphone amplifier focused on quality
- Robust all-aluminum exterior, with rigid toggle switches, and smooth volume control, giving it the same fit and finish as SMSL's higher-end HO200
- Delivers a clean, neutral, and transparent sound, faithfully reproducing the source audio without adding coloration
- Extremely low noise floor
- Versatile due to its three gain levels (low, mid, high) and its ability to drive both sensitive IEMs and harder-to-drive headphones
Product Considerations
- Lacks balanced and unbalanced outputs for connecting to powered speakers, functioning solely as a headphone amplifier
- Does not have preamp capability
- Reviewers have noted average microdetails
- While the design looks smart and subdued, the tempered glass panel easily grabs fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs SMSL HO200: HO100 lacks RCA/XLR outputs and has lower wattage, but is more compact and is preferred if the extra power and outputs are not needed
- Vs FiiO K5 PRO: It has better driving power, a lower noise floor with IEMs, and lower distortion at maximum volume
- Vs JDS Labs Atom+: It has higher maximum power, handles maximum volume better with lower distortion, and offers better overall detail in the micro detail, and a more relaxing signature
Takeaway: The SMSL HO100 is a compact yet powerful headphone amplifier that delivers clean, neutral sound suitable for various headphones. It is well-built and offers excellent value for audiophiles seeking a high-quality listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very clean, articulate, and detailed sound
- Plenty of power and headroom for difficult headphones
- Includes a remote control, a ground loop switch, and a mini-LED display
- Exceptional build quality
- Good bass and instrument separation
- Includes connectivity options
Product Considerations
- Can sound a bit too bright or lean, potentially sterile with already bright headphones
- Lacks the soundstage depth found in some other discrete designs
- Some reviewers experienced issues with the 6.35mm headphone jack turning off or popping when connecting/disconnecting
- When driving IEMs, enabling the Safe volume mode setting is needed
- Little to no resistance when turning its wheel
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Singer SA-1 is more natural and lifelike for solo piano, while the A90D emphasizes clarity and detail
- The A90D has better bass and instrument separation than the Geshelli Labs balanced E2
- The A90D has more detail and clarity than the HIFIMAN EF-400, but the EF-400 is warmer
- The A90D may have more detail than the Audio-gd Master 9 and R8 combination, but the Audio-gd has a warmer, richer sound and more 3-dimensional soundstage
- It features improved power, dynamics, and a shift from ultra-linear to more fun, colorful, and natural sound than the Topping A90
Takeaway: The Topping A90D is a solid amplifier with clarity, detail, and power that can drive most headphones. It may be worth considering if a clean and articulate sound is desired, especially with warmer headphones, and a preamp with a remote is needed.
Video review
Our take on the brand
How to buy
Amplifiers
Search all hifi products
Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.


















.png)
















.png)












