Audioholics Reviews and News from Audioholics

Emotiva XPA-200 Stereo Power Amplifier Preview

Mon, 13 May 2013 20:00:00 -0000

It’s difficult being the middle child, just ask Jan Brady. Stuck between the high value UPA-200 and the monstrous XPA-2 amplifiers; the XPA-200 seems to get lost in Emotiva’s plethora of offerings. Rated to deliver 150 watts into an 8 ohm load and 240 watts into a 4 ohm load (both at <1% THD), and priced at $499, does Emotiva’s midgrade stereo amplifier deliver a compelling value, or is it worth overlooking in favor of its superlative siblings? Keep reading to see our take.

AudioControl Rialto 400 High Power Amplifier with Digital Audio Inputs Preview

Tue, 07 May 2013 10:00:00 -0000

While targeting custom installers and their clients, the AudioControl Rialto 400 has some real technology under the Sonos-esque enclosure. Pushing 100 watts into 8 ohms, 200 watts into 4 ohms, Wolfson DACs, multiple inputs, automatic input switching, bass boost, subwoofer pass-though, and more, it is clear that the $800 price tag isn't all profit. If you are looking for an upgrade to the sound of your second or third system, the Rialto 400 should give you what you want. Just don't look to us to explain to your wife why you "needed" a box that cost 2x's as much as the Sonos box you connected it to.

Emotiva XPR-1 Mono Amplifier Review

Mon, 06 May 2013 04:00:00 -0000

There is little not to like about the 1kwatt Emotiva XPR-1 Monoblock power amplifier. Although it lacks the snob appeal of some of the more expensive and prestigious brands, the Emotiva XPR-1 gives up nothing in the performance department, especially with regards to power. It's built well with all the proper engineering in place to ensure reliable, problem free performance for years to come. The XPR-1 truly lives up to the “Reference series” name that Emotiva has reserved for their very best products. This is a highly recommended purchase for the audiophile looking for an amplifier with equal doses of brawn and finesse. It is the Jedi Master of power amps that would make even an audiophile Sith Lord proud to own. Check out our comprehensive review where we attempted to smoke our power resistors by dumping over 2kwatts of power through them, which the XPR-1 happily provided. Barbecue anyone?

Rotel RA-1570 Integrated Amplifier Preview

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 10:00:00 -0000

The Rotel RA-1570 integrated amplifier is a complete "rewrite" of the company's RA-1520 integrated amp. This is no small model bump, but a total makeover—extreme style. Let's start with the input section of the RA-1570. It's substantially more flexible than what you find in most integrated amplifiers—there's even a rare (for these types of products) front panel USB input. That means Rotel is ready to go with iPods, iPhones, and iPads—not to mention all of the available Android devices.

Rotel RMB-1585 and RMB-1555 Power Amplifiers Preview

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:30:00 -0000

This time, Rotel has got something for your home theater. The RMB-1555 is a five channel, 120 watts per channel, offering that should please all but the most demanding of users. For them, there is the 200 watt RMB-1585. The biggest change from the last generation of home theater amps from Rotel? The switch back from Class D to Class A/B. In our opinion this was a good move as linear amps tend still provide the most reliable amplification for the widest range of loudspeakers. Even if you don't have the money for these babies, you probably want to see what they came out with. Check them out at your local Rotel dealer if you can and have a listen.

Emotiva Audio XPA-1L Class A and AB Mono Amplifier Preview

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 10:20:00 -0000

If you've wanted to experiment with a Class A amplifier but didn't have the thousands it normally takes to step up to that level, the Emotiva XPA-1L is for you. With selectable Class A and A/B operation, it has something for everyone. Putting out 35 watts in Class A mode and 500 watts (4 ohms) in Class A/B mode, it should pair well with nearly any speaker you may own. We are also wondering if Emotiva is planning on implementing this Class A switch to their entire line of Class A/B amps. It would certainly help differentiate their offerings from all the other Class A/B amps out there. We are definitely looking forward to getting the Emotiva XPA-1L on our test bench.

Emotiva XPR-1 Mono-block Reference Power Amplifier Preview

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 01:00:00 -0000

The latest in a series of reference quality amplifiers, the Emotiva XPR-1, while hardly inexpensive in an absolute sense, comes in at a price just north of a four-figures. This is substantially less than most other amplifiers that boast similar specifications, which often approach, and some cross, the five-figure mark. Clocking in at 99 pounds per channel, and it is only a single channel, the XPR-1 is a monster of an amplifier. Basically, it appears that the XPR-1 is an XPR-2 with one less amplifier channel, sporting the same 30 pound, 2.5 kVA transformer and 240,000 uF capacitor bank, but just with one less output module and providing nearly twice the power output per channel.

Emotiva XPR-2 Stereo Reference Power Amplifier Preview

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:15:00 -0000

For $1450, and however much it will cost to get a 20 Amp circuit run to your home theater, the Emotiva XPR-2 will deliver impressive performance for a fraction of the cost of other offerings. How much power? How about 600 watts into 8 ohms or 1000 watts into 4 ohms with both channels driven! With the ability to independently select balanced or unbalanced input on each channel, 115 or 230 VAC, and adjust the illumination on the front, there is very little more you could want out of an amplifier.

Pass Labs X350.5 Stereo Power Amplifier Review

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 02:32:52 -0000

The Pass Labs X350.5 350 watt/ch stereo amplifier has the appearance like it was sculpted by Cybertronians. It portrays a commanding presence that just draws your attention. The X350.5 is built like a tank, pegging the scale in the pride of ownership department and weight (132 lbs). Its pristine sonic virtues and ability to drive even the most challenging of speaker loads beyond reference levels is even more impressive than its overall excellent bench test results. But, its power hungry demeanor and luxurious pricing isn't for the faint of wallet. However, I'm confident if Optimus Prime were an audiophile, it's a sure bet the X350.5 would be his amplifier of choice. Audiophile & Audioholics recommended!

digiZoid ZO2 Personal (not a) Subwoofer Review

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 03:35:00 -0000

The digiZoid Z02 Personal Subwoofer is not a subwoofer at all. Instead it is an "analog sound enhancement device" which will boost the volume of your 3.5mm source and provides bass boost. The amplification means that your source (usually a portable player or phone) will save battery and the bass boost can correct the typical failing of most headphones. At $120, the digiZoid ZO2 isn't cheap, and it isn't without its flaws, but we're betting most audioholics wouldn't mind getting one for Christmas.

Niles Audio Introduces Five New Amplifiers

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 11:05:00 -0000

Niles Audio recently announced the launch of five new integration amplifiers that they claim provide the “ideal solution for every application.” While that may be going a bit too far, the SI-1230 Series 2 and SI-1650 multi-room amplifiers and the SI-250, SI-200, and SI-2150 2-channel amplifiers are sure to fit the bill for many installations.

Classe CT-2300 Stereo Power Amplifier Review

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 01:00:00 -0000

The Classe CT-2300 300wpc/600wpc (8/4 ohms, respectively) two-channel power amplifier is well engineered from inside and out. Classe’s unique ICTunnel keeps the amplifier running cool under all operating conditions making it an ideal option for rack mounting. Feed this baby the very best speakers you can afford and it will rewarded you with a sonic landscape not achievable by lesser designed amplifiers. From its benchmark test results to its pristine sonic virtues, I found my time with this amplifier to be a pure delight. After two months of dining on the CT-2300, I can say with total confidence that my appetite is fully satisfied. Highly recommended!

Sherbourn PT-7030 Preamp and Multichannel Amplifiers Video

Fri, 14 Sep 2012 13:00:00 -0000

Sherbourn, to the uninitiated, may sound like the name of a high end hotel chain, but in reality it's a company continuing to bring high end audio to home theater and custom installation. This all becomes clear when you realize the company includes a 10-year warranty on all its products. To do that you have to either be crazy - or have a tremendous amount of faith in the quality of your products. Sherbourn Technology, a company that has been around for a long time, claims the latter. When we came to the booth we wanted to know what was new. The trouble was, everything is new. We took our cheat sheet and attempted to give you a tour of the booth.

Yamaha A-S300 Integrated Amp and CD-S300 CD Player Preview

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 19:00:00 -0000

There are two ways to think about the new S300 offerings from Yamaha - either a stepping stone into a high-end two-channel system or a second system for discerning consumers.The price is where Yamaha sold us on the new S300 offerings. At $379.95 for the A-S300 Integrated Amplifier and $349.95 for the CD-S300 CD player, we think a lot of people are going to be interested in at least one of these duo. These may be the go-to purchases for those looking for a second system or just want an new toy to play with but don't want to break the bank.

Emotiva UPA-500 Five Channel Power Amplifier Review

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 02:00:00 -0000

Riddle me this. What's affordable, lightweight, powerful and comes in a little black box? The UPA-500 and it's a new five channel amplifier from Emotiva with a price tag under $400. While it may NOT be a perfect amplifier, it comes as close to perfection for a product beyond its price class. The UPA-500 delivers clean, low noise, meaty amplification that will surely bring new life to a whimpering department store A/V receiver. It’s honestly rated and has no issues driving low impedance loads while remaining cool in operation even under the most strenuous test conditions on the bench. If you’re looking for a step up in sound quality and power on the cheap, I can’t think of a better option on the market. Highly recommended!

Emotiva UPA-500 & UPA-200 Ultra Series Amps Preview

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 00:45:00 -0000

While some might eschew the lower power ratings of the Emotiva Ultra Series, we dare you to find a sub $400 five channel amplifier with 80 watts per channel or two channel amp with 125 watts per channel that are stable into 4 ohms. Put behind these power claims the pedigree of the Emotiva name, their history of making affordable yet powerful amps, and it is a nigh impossible task. With chassis no taller than 4 1/16", these are amps that are begging for installation just about anywhere. Pair the two channel UPA-200 with the Emotiva USP-1 Stereo Preamp and you've got a dedicated two channel system for less than $800 (priced during the current sale).

Emotiva XPR-5 Five-Channel Reference Power Amplifier Preview

Sun, 08 Jul 2012 23:00:00 -0000

Hardcore Emotiva fans may balk at the $2000 price tag for the XPR-5...but they are the only ones. People have gladly paid a lot more for a lot less with other brands. Sporting 400 watts into 8 ohms and 600 watts into 4 ohms all channels driven, the Emotiva XPR-5 redefines the idea of how much power is enough in an amplifier. With a 3.3kVA toroidal power supply and 180,000 uF of storage capacitance, headroom is not a problem. Emotiva promises that the XPR-5 is fully protected from all common fault conditions and it stable with virtually all real-world speakers. For a limited time, you can pick up the Emotiva XPR-5 for 10% off ($1799.10) during their summer sale.

Bob Carver VTA20S Black Magic 20 Watt Stereo Amplifier Preview

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 02:10:00 -0000

A 20 watt stereo tube amp that is bridgeable to 40 watts into a single channel, the $2100 Bob Carver Black Magic 20 is sure to turn heads. We love the look of the amp and the pedigree of the manufacturer can't be denied. While we have to hold our noses as we dig through all the audiophile psuedo-science and marketing speak, we're sure this is a quality offering. Now, if only we could get a review unit.

Rocketfish Rocketboost RF-RBUSB RF-RBREC Wireless Audio Review

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 09:45:00 -0000

Almost everyone can appreciate having a whole-home audio system, but not everyone has a home that is wired for audio or the ability to wire it. The number of truly wireless multiroom systems is rather limited (SONOS and Aperion’s Zona are the only reliable products that come to mind). Now there is one more contender, and at about 1/5 the price of SONOS to boot! Best Buy has thrown their retail power behind a system called "Rocketboost". Rocketboost is a wireless platform that allows for uncompressed audio (48kHz, 16bit/24bit) distribution around the home. So far, Insignia (Best Buy's house brand), Rocketfish, and Onkyo are supporting Rocketboost technology. They currently offer it in a pair of headphones, an outdoor speaker, soundbar, subwoofer, powered bookshelf speakers, a TV… you get the idea. It is a pretty laudable goal to attempt to unify the audio throughout someone’s home, but many wireless systems have major flaws. Range, sound quality, operability, expansion potential, etc., and these things can make or break a wireless format.

Master TVA30 Guitar Amp Review

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 03:42:50 -0000

The Master TVA30 is a great option for someone looking for an economical, non-commercial guitar amp that provides great performance and useful options. The amp head appears to be built very well and is fully capable of performing better than anything in its price class. Though I pointed out some mechanical shortcomings, these do not take away from the overall tone and performance of the amp. For the price, it’s nice to see two channels, one for clean and one for over drive, and an effects loop. The system also comes with a two button foot controller to help you switch between channels with ease. When considering that it retails for $869, there are very little options that can compete. Though, if you are an audio fanatic like me, it may be worth springing anywhere some extra coin on a better speaker driver and tubes which I discuss in this review. I’ve found U.S. Masters pricing competitive and their level of technical understanding to be far better than other on-line stores or guitar centers. Even if you perform some upgrades to theTVA30, you’re still only around $1,000 for a great combo that is portable and very well made.

Anthem Statement M1 Class D Monobloc Preview

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 03:30:00 -0000

While we're not sure how well the Statement M1 will sell, it certainly looks good on paper. Given the 2000 watts of power with a highly efficient Class D design, it certainly will turn heads. Anthem set an impressive list of design goals for themselves and they believe they've achieved them. If so, you may be looking at an amp that will require much less space, can be stacked, outputs more power with less heat, is stable into any load, and sounds as good as any analogue amp. Is that worth $3500 per channel? We're guessing to many high-end users, it is.

ELAN S1616A 16-channel Multi-zone Amplifier/Controller Preview

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:27:44 -0000

ELAN was at the Hilton today, unveiling its new S1616A, a 16-channel multi-zone amplifier/controller that combines the functionality of the ELAN D16 amplifier and S128P multi-zone controller into one new component. It's pretty cool and should simplify installations and lower the total cost for dealers and their clients. The new ELAN S1616A Amplifier/Controller, which is designed to integrate exclusively with the ELAN g! System, will be available for delivery in the United States this month (January 2012) for $3600. The new ELAN S1616A is available in single- and dual-chassis versions, both of which include high-pass and low-pass crossovers, RCA inputs, speaker level and banana plug outputs, and feature level, bass and treble adjustment for each output channel.

McIntosh 50th Anniversary MC275 Tube Amplifier Preview

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:54:01 -0000

McIntosh popped out a new 50th Anniversary edition of its popular MC275 tube amplifier. This edition features the same great quality of the MC275, but also comes in an elegant gold-toned chassis. As we learned with teh now all-but-extinct 100th Anniversary Edition Denon products, the specially created amp is being offered in a very limited quantity. The amp will come with a commemorative history book and deluxe packaging. But that's not all the 50th Anniversary Edition delivers, there are some other improvements as well. First off, the Limited Edition MC275 comes with a gold-toned chassis and features the classic 1961 tube circuit design of the original, but there are "under-the-hood" improvements as well. The 50th Anniversary Limited Edition McIntosh MC275 tube power amplifier is available from authorized McIntosh dealers for a suggested retail price of $6,500.

Bel Canto C7R Integrated Amp Receiver with Tuner Preview

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 13:10:00 -0000

Bel Canto asks the question: Why choose different components for your music downloads, computer, CD player, turntables, cable/satellite box or game consoles? Their answer is to "keep things simple" with Bel Canto's compact, powerful C7R Receiver! The C7R, which is more like an integrated amp, tuner, and DAC all rolled into one, is loaded with inputs including two 24/192 SPDIF, two 24/192 TOSLINK, and one 24/96 USB, MM Phono and Analog Line Level inputs. Output connections are via upgraded WBT NEXTGEN Speaker Connectors plus RCA Line Out and a Headphone Output.

Moon 810LP Phono Preamplifier Preview

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 12:40:10 -0000

Simaudio introduced the Moon 810LP Phono Preamplifier at the Venetian, their latest addition to the Evolution Series of audio components. The 810LP features a dual-mono fully balanced differential design, and represents the company's “all out assault” on phono preamplification. They describe the preamp as an "ultra-refined audio circuit" which they have mounted on top of a floating suspension. As with many audiophile products, the Moon 810LP is also highly configurable, with selectable gain, impedance loading, capacitance loading and equalization curves. These can all be tweaked using DIP switches located on the bottom of the device. The goal is to make sure the Moon 810LP works with, and more importantly - sounds good with - virtually any available phono cartridge on the market.

Pass Labs Xs-300 and Xs–150 Amplifiers Preview

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 20:30:37 -0000

Pass Labs busted out their new Xs-300 and Xs–150 Amplifiers at the Venetian to tickle the ears of audiophiles and amateurs alike. These are actually just the first entries in what is slated to be a new generation of Xs Series amplifiers. CES is a great place to do this as it affords, in the Venetian at least, a great place to sit and listen and take in the full experience of what a $65,000 or $85,000 amplifier can, hopefully, do. Made out of billet gold and platinum... just kidding... The new Pass Labs amplifiers are designed to measure well objectively. But they are also designed to perform subjectively as well as they measure. Pass Labs claims their new enhancements further narrow the gap between what scientific measurements report about amplifier performance and what the human ear subjectively hears. That's pretty cool - and for the asking price we'd expect nothing less.

Denon PMA-A100 Integrated Amplifier Review & Measurements

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:00:00 -0000

When the Denon PMA-A100 was announced it would be part of their 100th anniversary product line-up, we asked for it. And we had high expectations. Turns out Denon met our expectations and even blew by them in some areas. The A100 is a stereo amp that weighs nearly 57 pounds and even has cast iron feet. There are also hardly any lights on the front of the unit, making it a truly audiophile product - with nothing wasted on unnecessary displays or LED status lights. The PMA-A100 produced some of the cleanest measurements on our test bench that we've ever seen. Great looks, great performance, its truly a statement piece worthy of the Denon name. It's not often we get the chance to review an integrated amplifier from Denon. This is a high-end product from a company who we've determined in the past REALLY knows how to make good amps.

Sherbourn PA 7-350 Seven-Channel Amplifier Preview

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 15:30:00 -0000

The Sherbourn PA 7-350 is a beast of an amp. With a massive 3.3 kVA toroidal power supply pushing 350 watts into 8 ohms, 4 ohm stability, and seven channels of amplification, the PA 7-350 is a monster. At over 100 pounds and with convection cooling and a high efficiency, “Soft Switch” class H design, this truly is an audiophile-grade amplifier. If you define "audiophile-grade" as "tons of power, every feature you'll need and none you don't." If you define it as "full of silver/platinum/chocolatey bits, marketing speak, and pseudo-science," well, you're looking at the wrong company. This should be an amp that custom installers will love to get their hands on.

Emotiva mini-X a-100 Stereo Flex Amp Preview

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 11:00:00 -0000

Our only real complaint against the Emotiva mini-X a-100 Stereo Flex Amp is the number of inputs. With only one, this integrated amp is a little hamstrung. But with it being rated down to 4 ohms, and with 60 watts at 8 ohms, this looks to be the perfect amp for the discerning Audioholic with difficult to drive speakers for their office, bedroom, or outdoor area. At $200, it is the perfect amp for a Zone 2/3/4 situation where it will be fed from a receiver or processor. If you've been looking for a solution for your Zone 2 woes, or perhaps just want to do something with those extra speakers, the Emotiva mini-X a-100 Stereo Flex Amp may be just what you were looking for.

Orb Audio Booster Mini Amplifier Preview

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:45:00 -0000

What is a small amp for your office that allows you to connect not only your computer but three additional sources worth? Our minor complaints aside, the Orb Audio Booster Mini Amplifier looks to be a dynamite little product. We're dying to get one on our test bench to see how it holds up. We're constantly looking for good recommendations for office setups and the Booster Mini Amp looks to fit the bill nicely.

Pass Labs XP-30 Preamplifier Preview

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 09:05:00 -0000

Pass Laboratories introduced its new 3-chassis XP-30 Preamp, the flagship to its XP line or preamplifiers. The triple-chassis structure allows the XP-30 to function as a modular preamplifier consisting of a power supply and control chassis and two additional gain chassis, each of which serves one channel. The XP-30 is typically supplied as a two-channel product but it's modular design means that it can be configured to serve anywhere from one to six channels. In this way it can serve the needs of a stereo or multi-channel system. The XP-30 joins Pass Labs' XP-10, XP-15, XP-20 and XP-25 in its XP series of preamps and phono preamps.

Bob Carver Cherry 180 and Black Beauty Tube Amplifiers Preview

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 16:19:27 -0000

Bob Carver has just partnered up with home automation pioneer Bob Farinelli to form Bob Carver LLC this year. Apparently, both men got bored and, after having worked closely together for over 5 years at Sunfire, they came out of retirement to join forces and start this new business. They may have just redefined the term "ambitious", because their first two products are both beautiful and frighteningly expensive. Bob Carver describes the amplifiers as "stand[ing] with a small handful of the world’s great vacuum tube amplifiers." 'Nuff said, if you're a fan of Bob Carver and have the money. We were hoping the two would have a booth at CEDIA but they are walking around instead this year checking out the competition and serving as audiophile "booth babes" for their partners (hey, those were Farinelli's words, not mine! lol).

Bryston BHA-1 Headphone Amplifier Preview

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 11:44:46 -0000

Bryston showed off its new BHA-1 headphone amplifier which is slated to hit dealers in time for Christmas orders in Q4. The BHA-1's claim to fame is its fully discreet dual mono design which uses proprietary Class A circuitry. The amplifier is specifically engineered as an audiophile solution for those who take their headphone listening very seriously. The Bryston BHA-1 is going to be available in two versions. The standard model will be equipped with an on-board ultra high quality Bryston power supply. If you really want to go all out, however, you can opt for the BHA-1 with an external power supply.

Anthem Statement M1 1000W Mono Amplifier Preview

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 11:06:46 -0000

I don't typically use mono amps all that much in my systems, but after seeing Anthem's new Statement M1 1000W behemoth I may just change my behavior. The Statement M1 is engineered to produce a ridiculous amount of RMS and peak power - even from a 15A/120V line. With advanced load monitoring and power factor correction technology it can actually produce peak output of up to 2400 watts - supposedly without generating ridiculous amounts of heat or tripping the breaker (internal or external). Anthem is clearly attempting to directly tackle the notion that Class D amplifiers aren’t suited for truly audiophile hi-fi sound systems.

Crestron PROAMP-7X400 "PROCISE" Amplifier First Look

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 08:30:00 -0000

The Crestron PROAMP-7X400 "PROCISE" amplifier is an 108lbs behemoth that is designed to work perfectly with your Crestron PSPHD "PROCISE" surround processor. We don't know the price but it is sure to be expensive. But for that you get a ton of management and control ability that will work not only with the Crestron processor but also can be accessed from a Crestron touchpanel, computer or mobile device though Cresnet (talk to your local installer). There are some curious omissions on the back panel but Crestron seems to have given consumers a real reason to pair their amp with their processor. Most just hope matching faceplates will do that for you.

McIntosh Labs MC601 Monoblock Amplifier Preview

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 17:43:38 -0000

McIntosh Laboratory, a global manufacturer of home entertainment and ultimate-quality audio for over 60 years, announced the debut of a new amplifier that brings legendary McIntosh performance capabilities and style together with a host of leading-edge features and extended functionality for today's digital age. The new MC601 Monoblock Amplifier, which replaces McIntosh's hugely popular MC501 amplifier, will ship in January of 2011. It joins the company's new Models MC302 and MC452 in the McIntosh amplifier lineup, all with new engineering advances and extended functionality.

Pass Labs Concept Amplifiers Preview

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 17:20:00 -0000

Pass Labs' new Concept Amplifiers are high-bias, Class A, monoblock models employing the company's acclaimed Ultra-Symmetry circuit. Originally designed by Nelson Pass for use at his own retreat, they were shown in "concept" form at the 2010 CES - however, demand from dealers & distributors has turned them into actual products for shipment later this year. They represent Pass Labs’ maximum design effort, and are like large versions of the company's flagship XA200.5 Amplifier, notable for its high output capacity, power and stability. Like the XA200.5, they deliver superb music without straining, and possess twice as much chassis, power supply, output stage and dissipation capacity.

Onkyo M-5000R Power Amplifier First Look

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 07:40:00 -0000

Do we need the M-5000R amplifier? Probably not. Do we want one? Oh yeah, you bet. While $2500 a pop isn't chump change, in the world of high end amplifiers, it isn't too bad. And considering the price of the amps they are obvious borrowing a few styling cues from (cough McIntosh cough), they are a positive steal. If you are going to charge a bunch for your high end gear, you should shove them full of high end parts and technology. It seems that Onkyo has once again done that. The P-3000R Preamp has everything a budding audiophile could want except XLR outputs and the C-7000R CD player has all the bells and whistles. What's most exciting about these sorts of products is not that we ever expect to own them but how they show that Onkyo is pushing their technological know-how. And knowing Onkyo, it'll only be a few years before we start seeing all of this in their receivers. And those are something we can afford.

Emotiva PMA-7350 7-Channel Amplifier First Look

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:45:00 -0000

The PMA-7350 - a seven channel, 350 watts per channel monster of an amp is the flagship in Emotiva's new Pro line. Of course, with amplifiers it is what is on the inside that counts and the Emotiva PMA-7350 has a massive 3.3kVA toroidal transformer pushing out 350 watts into 8 ohms. The amp is stable into 4 ohms and is fully safety compliance for worldwide sale. With such a large amp pushing such power, you'd expect a lot of heat or fan noise. The PMA-7350 is completely convection cooled (no fans) thanks to it's class H design. This means silent operation without having to worry about your amp cooking the rest of your gear (let your Xbox 360 do that). While $3k may be a bit stiff for the Internet Direct crowd, it's practically a bargain for the custom install consumer.

Emotiva UPA-7 Seven Channel Power Amplifier Review

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 02:52:37 -0000

The Emotiva UPA-7 in my mind is an embarrassment - not to itself, mind you, but to the industry. What I mean by this bold statement is, it's built too robustly, measures too pristinely and performs too well for a seven channel amplifier selling for even twice its price. Whether you're looking for a new multi-channel amplifier to update your system or to cure the common receiver with a power boost, the UPA-7 will do so exceedingly well in all but the largest most power hungry installations. In the meantime, you can rest assured that dollar for dollar, pound for pound, a better multi-channel amplifier does NOT exist on the market. This is a safe purchase and a highly recommended one!