Recommended integrated amplifiers

High-end audio is so often about compromises, trading one characteristic for another. What recommended integrated amplifiers the Soulution integrated apart is its ability to strike just the right balance of musical elements without compromise—and to manage to do so across so many recordings and styles. The company has somehow succeeded in keeping many of its best sonic characteristics, while paring down parts and pricing.

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.

Recommended integrated amplifiers

Estimated wait for next available agent :. You can even stream music through the sound bar you use for TV watching. I'm not knocking those handy options, but if you're like me — a music lover who really prioritizes sound quality — you may want to make an integrated amplifier the centerpiece of your primary sound system. The one you turn to when you settle into a comfy chair for a couple of hours of serious listening. An integrated amp is the right choice if you want to connect all of your music sources to a dedicated two-channel amplifier using one component. And most of them can accomodate wireless music streaming, too. We'll go over everything these versatile amps can do, and help you narrow down your choices until you find the perfect one for your sound system. The preamp lets you switch between wired and wireless sources and control the volume. The preamp may also include balance and tone controls. The built-in power amp lets you drive one or two pairs of bookshelf or floor-standing speakers. So what makes an integrated amp different from a stereo receiver , then?

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This is the gear that we, the staff of Part-Time Audiophile, 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. Nicely built, appropriately heavy and yes, it has that beautiful and slightly modern tube amp sound that is quite common these days—for two to three times the cost. The Living Sounds Audio crew are experts at scouring the world for the best audiophile values, and their expansive involvement throughout the supply chain is what keeps the VT so affordable—not cutting corners on the design. When we heard that Naim was going to release a new limited version of the classic NAIT amp, we pushed and shoved to the front of the line to get a better look and yes, one of us bought one. They only made 1, of them, to celebrate the year Naim Audio went into business.

The MKII version of the venerable RA, this Wpc Class AB powerhouse offered rock-solid musicality across all criteria, with a lush velvety character and a weighty, well-defined bottom end. The treble octaves were clean, relatively free of clutter or grain. At the treble extremes there was a minor reduction of air and harmonic bloom and a scarcity of depth cues, but these were trivial subtractions. Exactly what TAS has come to expect of an experienced, year-old brand that knows the audio terrain like few competitors in this segment. NG, Attessa is its first offering with integrated DAC plus network streaming capability and a fine mm phonostage too. Sonic performance registered high scores across all genres of music. It maintained a ripe and natural midrange, a weighted tonality, a firm and controlled bass, and a smooth if slightly drier top-end.

Recommended integrated amplifiers

High-end audio is so often about compromises, trading one characteristic for another. What sets the Soulution integrated apart is its ability to strike just the right balance of musical elements without compromise—and to manage to do so across so many recordings and styles. The company has somehow succeeded in keeping many of its best sonic characteristics, while paring down parts and pricing. This integrated gets out of the way of the music in the right ways, but also delivers the right stuff.

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There's also a pre out that can be used to connect a powered subwoofer. If you want an example of a single-box solution that does everything well, this Reviewers Choice winner will more than suffice. Bluetooth is optional, and requires an additional adapter, and there are no XLR inputs, but it's a rugged, rock-solid choice that won't empty your wallet. Read our full Marantz PM review. Audition speakers before you buy. JM, The Sphinx integrated amplifier may be the most roguish of the lot. Cambridge Audio's CXA61 sat in this very spot on this list for many years, in fact. The amp is rated 45Wpc into 8 ohms, and includes a phono section, two analog inputs, a pre-out, and a plethora of digital inputs. However, pure integrated amplifiers such as every one on our list tend to leave out the receiver part because it can cause sound interference or unwanted noise. II uses its own preliminary and final amplification circuit, operates in the frequency response from 0 to ,! It also includes two pairs of balanced XLR jacks for connecting high-end gear. The T Mk. Specifications Power: 55W per channel.

This is the gear that we, the staff of Part-Time Audiophile, 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.

Best stereo amplifiers: quick menu. JM, SpeakerCompare gives you a sense of the sonic differences. Audition speakers before you buy SpeakerCompare simulates the sound of home and car speakers through your headphones. We'll call you back when it's your turn to talk with the next available. It's also got a fantastic built-in headphone amp for private listening. Compact, modestly powered and affordable, this Greek-built KT powered integrated has a luxurious, warm and welcoming sound that is as seductive and natural as many five-figure competitors. The sense of rhythm and pace are extraordinary, and the extremely low noise floor confers a see-through clarity and transparency that render tone colors more vivid and alive. Home Cinema. In each category, I list my favorite, plus a lower-priced runner-up to give you even more options. How to build a killer desktop audio system Many of us spend a lot of time listening to music or watching videos at our desks.