In 2024, a wave of fresh amplifiers flooded the market and – therefore, our latest ranking of the finest integrated circuits will be a great aid in selecting a component that suits every preference and budget.
8. Cambridge Audio AXA25
The Cambridge Audio AXA25 is a small but powerful amplifier that maintains distortion levels below 0.015%, even at 80% power. With a damping factor of 100 units, this amplifier delivers exceptional performance. Although the price may seem steep, the quality is undeniable. This integrated amplifier is a fantastic find, especially with the ability to upgrade to a wireless system using a Bluetooth receiver. The sound quality is truly high-fidelity – clear and accurate.
Output power – 2 x 25 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 10 – 30,000 Hz | Signal to noise ratio – 82 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 5.1 kg
Pros – a very inexpensive device with clear Hi-Fi class sound
Cons – not very high power output
Verdict – Cambridge Audio will not let you down
Price: $400
7. Denon PMA-600NE
The Denon PMA-600NE amplifier packs a punch with its 2 x 45 W (8 Ohms) or 2 x 70 W (4 Ohms) power output, making it suitable for driving multiple speakers. It boasts impressive specs, including a signal-to-noise ratio of 105 dB, Denon Advanced High Current (AHC) topology, and SLDC for signal separation. To top it off, it comes with a built-in DAC based on the PCM5141 24/192 chip and a MM phono stage.
Output power – 2 x 45 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 20 – 20,000 Hz | Signal-to-noise ratio – 105 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 6.8 kg
Pros – beautiful and flexible sound for a modest price
Cons – lack of resolution for low frequencies
Verdict – serious performer
Price: $770
6. Arcam Radia A5
The latest Arcam Radia A5 is more than just a redesign – it offers a sleek sound that truly impresses, especially considering its price. It’s precise, well-balanced, like a clear view out onto the street. Even though it’s compact, this device works in class AB, with distortion levels staying under 0.003%, and a signal-to-noise ratio of 106 dB. It also comes with a built-in 24/192 DAC, a MM phono stage, and a Bluetooth module featuring Qualcomm AptX Adaptive technology.
Output power – 2 x 50 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 20 – 20,000 Hz | Signal to noise ratio – 106 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 8 kg
Pros – exceptionally transparent presentation with dynamics that go far beyond the price category
Cons – for the money – nothing
Verdict – brilliant new series from Arcam!
Price: $1.160
5. ATC SIA2-100
1. The ATC SIA2-100 is a prime example of English sound amplification expertise, showcasing the company’s rich professional legacy. This amplifier can effortlessly power a wide range of speakers available today (100W per channel into 8 ohms) while delivering top-notch performance, luxurious bass, and an impressively precise, neutral sound profile. With harmonics below 0.0015%, a frequency response of 2 – 250,000 Hz, and a built-in DAC AKM 32/384 supporting DSD256, this amplifier has all the right features.
Output power – 2 x 100 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 2 – 250,000 Hz | Signal to noise ratio – 108 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 9.7 kg
Pros – Balanced, high-resolution studio sound
Cons: lack of emotions
Verdict – professional quality
Price: $3.700
4. Accuphase E-280
The Accuphase E-280 is known for its unique and captivating sound, filled with a wide range of emotions. With 90 W per channel, it delivers enough power to please even the most discerning audiophiles. The speaker control is exceptional, thanks to its impressive damping factor of 500 units. This model features the innovative AAVA volume control system, equipped with 16 VI converters. Additionally, it boasts a power supply with two capacitor blocks, each with a capacity of 30,000 uF, and utilizes bipolar transistors in a parallel push-pull configuration for its output stages, resulting in a current feedback amplification topology.
Output power – 2 x 90 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 20 – 20,000 Hz | Signal to noise ratio – 107 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 20.4 kg
Pros – exquisite sound picture, excellent timbral fidelity
Cons – nothing significant
Verdict – Accuphase is built to last
Price: $7.000
3. Moon 641 2-Tone
The Moon 641 2-Tone amplifier is a beast, delivering a solid 2 x 125 W into an 8 Ohm load. With a frequency response that kicks off at 2 Hz and a whopping damping factor of 700 units, this bad boy knows how to rock. Thanks to its “dual mono” system and the innovative MDCA design (MOON Distortion-Cancelling Amplifier), it brings out the best in your music, delivering dynamic contrasts with stunning clarity and power.
Output power – 2 x 125 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 2 – 90,000 Hz | Signal-to-noise ratio – 109 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 26 kg
Pros: excellent macro- and microdynamics, decent scale
Cons – not always good at “heavy metal” genres
Verdict – a great modern amplifier
Price: $16.000
2. Constellation Audio Integrated 1.0
According to the company’s standards, the Constellation Audio Integrated 1.0 is considered affordable; however, within the industry, it is recognized as a top-tier High End product. While the damping factor may not be the highest at 64 units, this integrated amplifier boasts a remarkably smooth frequency response with minimal distortion of only 0.001% across the entire spectrum and a signal-to-noise level of 105 dB. But what truly stands out is the sound quality – the Integrated 1.0 delivers an exceptional level of detail and rhythm that will make you want to dance.
Output power – 2 x 100 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 10 – 100,000 Hz | Signal-to-noise ratio – 105 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 11.3 kg
Pros – a scattering of details and an amazing sense of rhythm
Cons – high price
Verdict – Entrance ticket to the world of Constellation Audio
Price: $26.000
1. Dan D’Agostino Momentum MxV Integrated
You could easily purchase a high-end power amplifier and a top-notch preamp for the same price as the Dan D’Agostino Momentum MxV Integrated. However, this integrated device from the amplification genius offers something truly special – a brilliant, thunderous bass and exquisite highs. There’s really nothing to complain about, unless you’re not willing to part with that kind of money. With 250 watts per channel into 8 ohms and minimal distortion, this device delivers impressive performance. It features an ultra-quiet 2000 VA linear transformer and a 60,000 uF capacitor unit, showcasing advanced technology. Essentially, it combines the Momentum HD preamplifier and the Momentum MxV power amplifier, so be prepared for its hefty weight of over fifty kilograms.
Output power – 2 x 250 W at 8 ohms | Frequency response – 0.1 – 100,000 Hz | Signal to noise ratio – 75 dB | Type – AB | Weight – 50.8 kg
Pros – Reference sound in every sense – even when directly compared to high-end component amplification systems
Cons – a thing for millionaires…
Verdict – Dan D’Agostino sets industry standards
Price: $100.000
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