Best stereo amplifier

This is the gear that we, the staff of Part-Time Audiophile, best stereo amplifier, recommend. You get a fully digital integrated, top-loading CD transport, digital streaming, MM phono stage, Space Tune environmental adjustments, radio and unlimited connectivity with TVs and subwoofers.

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us. An amp should be the center of your hi-fi world. Everything flows into it, and everything flows out of it. There's a lot of mystique that has sprung up around amps, and a lot of related jargon that has been created over the years, but the good news is that the standard is really high now - even for budget amps. Below, we've highlighted this year's top models, and no matter what budget you're on, there's a model here that'll supercharge your sound system. We're covering only integrated amps here - no discrete power or preamplifiers - and we've tried to keep prices sane.

Best stereo amplifier

Stereo amps come in several configurations, with different names attached. Though the connection options, features, and forms vary for these amps, our tests confirmed that all of our recommendations here have the power to effectively drive a typical set of bookshelf speakers to satisfying levels. This integrated amp has everything one could want in an affordable stereo amp: solid power, loads of features, and outstanding looks. But its distinctive appearance may not appeal to everyone. This tiny integrated amp packs solid power and performance for its size, and unlike most mini amps, it looks nice enough to use in a living room. It supports Bluetooth but has just one audio input. But the front-panel design is almost too simplistic. This stereo receiver delivers a lot of power for its price, and it has more connection options than integrated amps, including a phono input to connect a turntable. Ideal if you have multiple sources, such as a disc player, turntable, TV, and Bluetooth source—and need enough power to play loud. Perfect for places where space is at a premium, sources are limited, and high power is unnecessary, such as bedrooms and offices. A good choice for enjoying maximum sound quality or playing audio in multiple rooms, without the need to buy an extra streaming component. An integrated amplifier combines a stereo amplifier to power your speakers with a preamplifier to process incoming audio signals and control volume. It also rises above the science-project look of most mini amps, thanks to its brushed-metallic finish, fastener-free front panel, and bronze-colored volume knob. But its connections are limited to Bluetooth, one analog input, and a line output for connecting a subwoofer.

As best stereo amplifier as integrated amplifiers go, you just can't go wrong with the CXA Also, it is widely compatible with the latest audio formats to enjoy audiophile quality from a USB drive or through your network connection. Amplifier Technology A uses Wide Range Amplification Technology that provides high-current power stability with massive bespoke capacitors.

If you're looking to dig into the world of hi-fi systems that consist of a separate stereo receiver or integrated amplifier that powers a set of passive speakers — whether your passion is turntables and vinyl records, sweet CD sound, or streaming audio — then this list is the resource you need to get going. We also explain what an AV receiver is and how it fits in to all of this, but because they're a whole other beast, we have an entirely separate roundup for those as well. But back to what we're here for. With its substantial watts-per-channel output, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 has received accolades across the board for its ability to drive even the most demanding of speakers 4 to 8 ohms with full, deep bass, punchy mids, and detail, and definition on the highs that keeps its cool even in the upper volume ranges. And while it doesn't have a dedicated phono preamp a phono stage is required , the CXA81 is the go-to integrated amplifier for Digital Trends' turntable reviewer Derek Malcolm based on its well-balanced sound for all kinds of music. If analog is more your jam, the CXA81 features four RCA inputs for, well, anything you'd like to connect to it, such as turntables with phono preamp, of course and CD players. It also features a balanced XLR input if you must have that extra level of interference separation.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Read more: Best smart speaker: smart home speakers with Google, Alexa and Siri built-in. Speaking of which, one other incredible thing about home Hi-Fi setups, are the prices. Its small footprint crams plenty of connectivity beneath its simple outer shell. Features include Bluetooth 5. With enough power to power two 50W speakers, the promise of no audible noise or interference, an month warranty, and thousands of positive reviews, this is an absolute bargain for green-horned audiophiles and experienced listeners alike. The premium-priced Stereo certainly falls into the best amplifier category and builds upon the foundation set by its predecessor, packing more power beneath its wonderful mid-century casing. Driven by a powerful audio processing chip, it can comfortably supply two 8ohm 75W speakers, or two 4ohm W speakers 4ohm speakers have lower impedance and will be louder than 8ohm speakers at the same power level.

Best stereo amplifier

We've often referred to a stereo amplifier as the heart of a hi-fi system, the rug that knits a system together. Considering its importance, it pays to pick a good one. A less than adequate performer could bring a system's potential down by a couple of notches. This list of the best stereo amplifiers of What Hi-Fi? Big or small, budget or high-end, functional or stylish, these amplifiers have left an indelible impression.

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If the amp has any unusual features, how well do they work and how useful are they? But you cannot believe the difference having one will make. Your amp choice should be guided by the number of channels you need, your existing setup, your sources and the space you have available. When you start adding channels — which you will be doing very quickly if your audio setup is even a little bit complex — things change. The T Mk. When he built his mobile recording unit 'The Sound Box', a Quad powered each channel of the monitors. See the Rega Io It's made up of electrical components, after all, and these sometimes make noise in the operation. Also, it is widely compatible with the latest audio formats to enjoy audiophile quality from a USB drive or through your network connection. Best high-end 8. Wireless Connectivity Many integrated amplifiers offer wireless music streaming, which is unrivaled in terms of convenience. All Rights Reserved. This is a roundup of stereo amps, and stereo, by definition, means two. Yep, that's it.

Stereo amps come in several configurations, with different names attached. Though the connection options, features, and forms vary for these amps, our tests confirmed that all of our recommendations here have the power to effectively drive a typical set of bookshelf speakers to satisfying levels.

Below, we've highlighted this year's top models, and no matter what budget you're on, there's a model here that'll supercharge your sound system. While there are complete surround sound systems that go for hundreds of dollars, there are also budget-friendly options like the Yamaha SR-B20A soundbar. See the NAD D Stereo Amp Classes Explained Don't get hung up on the different types of amps. Amplifiers take an input signal from a source, such as a laptop or TV, and magnify that audio signal's power, resulting in a louder and higher-quality sound. See the Rega Io. The bad news? Reasons to avoid - Analogue only; only two inputs. Best Power Amplifiers. Unexpectedly faithful to the recording at this level. The disadvantages, of course, is that having two separate pieces of equipment is more expensive. In most cases, this is a full-range output, which means your speakers still get the same amount of bass if you connect a subwoofer, and that can cause smaller speakers to distort the sound.