Sometimes it happens that you already have audio equipment and don’t want to change it at all. But over time, absolute certainty comes that the existing characteristics are not enough. The best models of stereo amplifiers can cope with the task and improve the sound quality of any acoustics, and phono stages will open up the world of controlling the sound of vinyl and old film media. The Marka.guru portal offers a closer look at the best amplifiers presented in the rating of popular models.
Criterias of choice
Sound quality that can satisfy the ear of a professional has a lot of subtleties. To make the right choice and purchase a good stereo amplifier, you will need to learn several rules. First of all, you need to understand the capabilities of the equipment, understand how it works, and also take into account the basic parameters of the equipment.
- Types of amplifier design. The first option is based on microcircuits. Usually, these are the most budget options; they help increase volume and bass, but you shouldn’t expect detailed and beautiful sound from them. The second type is based on transistors. Inexpensive and at the same time high quality. Most popular devices, with proper configuration and placement of sound sources, give real pleasure to music lovers and fans of immersive movie watching. The third type is based on electronic vacuum tubes. They sound superior to all of the above, conveying the slightest changes in the frequency pattern. However, the average user simply will not be able to feel the difference.
- Balance. To avoid significant sound distortion, the amplifier and sources must be in balance. As a rule, the best results are shown by duets with a 70% difference in power in favor of the amplifier.
- Sound power. Experts recommend adhering to the rule of 4 W per 1 square meter of room, however, lovers of bass and maximum volume rarely listen to it. For a car, this rule becomes even more unrealistic, and experts recommend installing an amplifier for each sound source and a subwoofer separately.
- General picture of the device. Of course, the case itself must look good, all switches must certainly be light and of high quality. Otherwise, inconvenience of operation and frequent breakdowns will overshadow the pleasure of good sound.
And now the rating of devices itself, which includes the best models from different brands, stereo amplifiers for acoustics, headphones and professional use.
The best multi-channel amplifiers
Receivers, unlike conventional amplifiers, not only increase the level of the sound signal, but also affect its quality, since they work not in stereo, but in multi-channel mode. Such models are chosen to equip a home theater - they are poorly suited for simply listening to music.
Onkyo TX-RZ730
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The 9.2-channel receiver features dynamic audio amplification technology. It is capable of reproducing sound at frequencies from 5 to 100,000 Hz. Works with both Hi-Fi music and vinyl records. The Onkyo TX-RZ730 is primarily designed for watching movies, but it is also great for listening to high-quality music.
The device also supports wireless audio transmission via Chromecast, FlareConnect, DTS Play-Fi. The available HDMI connector supports Dolby Vision, HLG and HDR10 formats. The AccuEQ system is used to calibrate the room.
Advantages:
- Great sound;
- Ideal for cinema;
- Supports all modern codecs and technologies;
- Streaming without delay;
- Flexible sound settings;
- Convenient application for management.
Flaws:
- Price.
An almost uncompromising device in its price segment, it provides high-quality sound and a lot of additional features. A massive and expensive receiver, but beyond competition.
Denon AVR-X1500H
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
93%
buyers recommend this product
This is a home 7.2-channel AV receiver with a classic design and a wide range of supported technologies. It can independently connect to streaming services to play music. There is support for all modern codecs, as well as a 3D sound system.
There are plenty of connections on the back panel, including several HDMIs. This receiver will especially appeal to those who watch movies in high quality. Regardless of the number of connected devices, the sound will be clear.
Advantages:
- Great sound;
- Convenient control menu;
- Rich set of codecs;
- Lots of connectors for connection;
- Focus on cinema.
Flaws:
- Simple miniature display;
- Difficult first setup.
A large and expensive, but functional and powerful amplifier for various purposes, but primarily for watching movies without compromise.
Marantz SR5013
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
90%
buyers recommend this product
A fairly large 7.2-channel receiver, intended primarily for home theaters, reproduces sound in Dolby Atmos, DTS:X and other formats. The amplifier can be finely tuned. In addition, there is an automatic calibration function.
The device has 8 HDMI inputs. It also supports native audio streaming: AirPlay 2, Bluetooth and Spotify Connect. You can play all modern advanced formats and even connect vinyl record players.
Advantages:
- Cool sound;
- Good positioning of sound in cinema;
- Simple first setup process;
- Works with a wide variety of devices;
- Audio streaming is supported.
Flaws:
- Not a very high quality remote control;
- Price.
The Marantz amplifier is clearly a success: a modern design with a touch of retro, support for streaming and all the most important functions in place. Only its price may scare off some buyers.
Yamaha RX-V485
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
87%
buyers recommend this product
A relatively affordable receiver that provides good sound quality is suitable even for those who are using this type of device for the first time. The design of the amplifier is classic: a black parallelepiped with a small screen, a dozen connectors on the rear panel and a volume control.
The 5.1-channel scheme can also be configured using wireless speakers. Yamaha RX is controlled using mobile applications, but streaming via AirPlay and MusicCast is not supported. Tidal, Spotify, Deezer and others work instead.
The receiver can build the acoustic profiles of a room. Like most similar systems, the emphasis is on cinema sound: a wide, detailed and spacious stage with plenty of bass.
Advantages:
- Rich possibilities;
- Excellent sound, especially for cinema;
- There are mobile applications to control the device;
- Simple setup process;
- Reasonable price.
Flaws:
- Some streaming services do not work;
- Problems with radio operation.
An ideal receiver for beginners - fairly inexpensive and with a simple initial setup process. It cannot boast of an elegant design, and some functions are missing, but the same room acoustic profiles cannot be found in some more expensive amplifiers.
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Phono preamps
It is difficult for passionate vinyl lovers to imagine powerful and high-quality sound without a phono stage. Modern speaker systems are focused on digital sound, and this is what creates a problem that can only be solved by these devices.
1NAD PP-2
A budget option for improving sound from non-digital media with noise. Without unnecessary settings and complex manipulations, the capabilities of this phono preamplifier bring the sound to the proper level of volume and quality.
Suitable for fans of rock and pop music, while the detail will not be enough to reveal classical and jazz recordings.
The compact case weighs only 450 grams. The cost is about 10,000 rubles.
Pros:
- significant improvement in sound;
- reveals the nuances of arrangements;
- compact size;
- affordable price.
Minuses:
- not recommended for instrumental performance of classical music.
Prices for NAD PP-2:
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2Pro-Ject Phono Box
Phono stages of this brand are designed to work with old audio sources and low-quality media.
The device does an excellent job of absorbing noise and interference, the sound becomes more voluminous, but still you shouldn’t expect digital sound.
This is due to the rather low-cost design of the electronics and the characteristic range from 20 to 22,000 Hz. The acquisition cost is about 6,000 rubles.
Pros:
- significant noise absorption;
- compact size;
- light weight of 570 grams;
- low price.
Minuses:
- separate power supply.
Pro-Ject Phono Box prices:
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The best integrated amplifiers
The functionality of these devices is limited to amplification of the sound signal - with minimal impact on its quality.
Cambridge Audio AXA35
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
This amplifier stands out from its competitors due to its simpler design. But it has a screen, like receivers, so the number of controls on the front panel is kept to a minimum.
Cambridge AXA35 can be considered one of the best in the budget segment. The output music is powerful, but not harsh, and sounds equally good regardless of the sources, settings and connected devices.
Advantages:
- Nice design;
- Good sound;
- Laconic remote control;
- Volumetric scene.
Flaws:
- Does not support Bluetooth.
The budget amplifier is versatile in its own way. It produces the same high-quality sound - no matter what you listen to or what source you use for playback.
Pioneer A-40AE
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
86%
buyers recommend this product
An affordable stereo amplifier is suitable for those who are just starting to get acquainted with the world of advanced audio technology. It has a metal body (black or silver), classic design, standard volume controls and sound details.
The device does not support streaming services or wireless audio transmission - only the good old stereo system. But there is a built-in DAC that supports a 24-bit signal with 192 kHz sampling. The Pioneer A-40 can be used both for listening to high-quality music and for watching movies. It produces loud and even sound at all frequencies.
Advantages:
- Excellent stereo sound with deep bass;
- You can use several pairs of acoustics;
- Elegant design;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- No USB;
- Frozen remote control.
The basic level amplifier is devoid of such relevant functions as playing music from streaming services or transmitting signals via wireless interfaces. But it is ideal for those who want to understand whether they need such a device at all.
Denon PMA-800NE
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
84%
buyers recommend this product
This amplifier has no screen - its front panel contains only a few controls, sensors and ports. The back side, as is the case with more expensive receivers, is littered with connectors.
The device supports a digital connection, but can also work purely in analog mode when other elements are turned off. When using quality sources such as turntables, the sound output is even higher quality. For digital, a DAC is used that supports files with resolutions up to 192 kHz/24 bit.
Advantages:
- Minimalistic design and high-quality materials;
- High-quality built-in DAC;
- High volume level;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Outdated technologies;
- Too obvious emphasis on bass.
The amplifier is aimed at those who like to listen to music in purely analog mode. At the same time, the model is modern, so it couldn’t be done without a DAC.
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Choice of amplifier from 7 to 35 thousand rubles (up to 50,000 yen). Part two.
In the first part, the first 5 budget models were reviewed, let’s continue.
I remind you that the review is a translation from the Japanese site phileweb.com MARANTZ
PM5005
32,500 yen (excluding taxes)
55W × 2 (4 ohms), Input Jack: Analog RCA × 4 / Phono MM × 1, Speaker Jack: Banana Plug Compatible Equipped with 2 systems, Dimensions: 440W × 105H × 370Dmm, Weight: 6.7kg .
This model is the little brother of the Marantz PM series, which uses high-quality audio technologies found in high-end models and beyond. This series is very successful for entering the world of Hi-Fi. The amplifier contains an MM phono stage on board.
When the price range reaches such values, expressions such as lightness come into music. Boosting the signal will provide smoother sound quality, greater sensitivity, and possibly create a smoother, more natural sound transition. In a piano trio, the piano becomes smoother and more compelling, with a sense of speed and continuous impact that makes the sound compelling. Overall, the sense of unity as a trio ensemble is high.
It has a subtly bright and crisp treble presentation, and the classic tone renders each instrument with subtlety and freshness. It’s nice that the choir’s expression is depicted vividly. The expression of space is also broad, and the meaning of the front and back of the instrument section and the overlapping parts is drawn in detail. Musical performance creates a natural sound and has lively expression.
Even pop and rock music end up with an elegant texture. As in the classics, the 3D effect of the instrument and its mixing are also depicted in detail. The distortion of the electric guitar seems to be somewhat elegantly displayed, and you can enjoy the softness and refreshing texture rather than the craggy savagery.
Music genre, compatibility Pops / Rock: A Jazz: A + Classics: A +
PIONEER
A-10AE
38,800 yen (excluding taxes)
50W × 2 (4 ohms), Input: Analog RCA × 4 / Phono MM × 1, Speaker Connector: Banana Plug Compatible, Dimensions: 435W × 129H × 323D mm, Weight: 6.8 kg
Like the entry-level Marantz model, the A-10 inherits the technology and know-how of the high-end models in the series. Thus, we can say that the efficiency of your costs will be high. The A-10AE also has a MM phono stage and a volume function, which is useful when using small speakers (don't get the point).
An amplifier with a balanced, direct sound. It's a balanced sound in which all instruments are drawn with even energy, without any sense of individuality or jealousy in all groups. At the same time, it gives a direct boost to how the sound comes out.
The piano trio has a high sense of freshness, so it can be used to separate the sounds of individual instruments with a natural tone. In particular, the clean timbre of the drums is impressive. The base has a solid tool weight but is drawn with a clean outline. The piano also accurately captures subtle touch details such as staccato, faint sound expression. In any case, the balance is good.
Even in classical music, the separation of many instruments is clearly visible. The Baroque Orchestra's "Misa" is played with natural tones, even when many players are playing on stage. This is an amplifier that has a voracious, colorless tone that highlights the charm of the connecting equipment in front of the amplifier.
Music genre, compatibility Pops / Rock: A Jazz: A Classics: A +
YAMAHA
A-S301
40,000 yen (excluding taxes)
60W × 2 (8 ohms), Input: Analog RCA × 7 / Phono MM × 1 / Optical Digital × 1 / Coaxial Digital × 1, Speaker Jack: Banana Plug Compatible 2 systems equipped, Dimensions: 435 W x 151 H x 387 D mm, weight: 9.0 kg
This machine is also the entry model, which will be the youngest brother in all seven types of amplifier series of the company. Like the Marantz and Pioneer models introduced before, this is a product that leverages the technology and expertise of top-end models. The appearance also has similarities with the higher-end machines A-S801 and A-S501. Highly functional and very convincing, including digital input, MM phono amplifier and roundness function (loudness compensation?).
Yamaha amplifiers deliver bright, vibrant musical sound. There is no place where the sound becomes harsh in the classic and you can enjoy easily audible tones with a slightly delicate texture. It feels like a warm sense of presence is spreading in the room. Because the low range energy speed is rendered somewhat relaxed, it appears to be rendered plump. Rock and pop music make particular use of the aforementioned pep, and electric guitar and electric bass riffs are played with a sense of weight and come out with a sense of energy due to the swelling. The kick of the bass drum, that is, the reproduction of the heaviest low range, is not that deep, but it is powerful in the energetic feeling of impact and momentum. Mid frequencies such as vocals are also rich and you can enjoy a tight and comfortable listening experience that is really fun. Even in the piano trio I was able to enjoy the full energy of the drums and bass. The piano seems to draw a striking sound without hitting the keys and low strings, instead of carefully drawing touches.
Music genre/compatibility Pops/Rock: A + Jazz: B Classic: A
TEAC
AI-301DA-SP
» 42,000 yen
40W × 2 (4 ohms), Input: Analog RCA × 2 / USB-B (PC) × 1 / Optical Digital × 1 / Coaxial Digital × 1 / Bluetooth, Speaker Jack: Banana Plug Compatible, External Shape Dimensions: 215 W x 61 H x 254 D mm, Weight: 2.1 kg
The amplifier is compactly housed in a small rigid housing. This is another smaller product in the A4 size 500 series developed by the company. The power amplifier block uses ICEpower , which has a good reputation. In addition to coaxial and optical digital input, it functions as a USB-DAC. In addition, a big advantage at this price is the large number of digital inputs, such as the Bluetooth connection, which supports the high-quality aptX codec. This is an amp that sounds fast and energetic. In classical music, the choir's voice sounds very good. The sound and tone of the voice and instrument are brilliant and full of speed and energy. The rise in sound occurs particularly quickly, such as the Timpani attack expression.
Even in rock music, the feeling of power and speed feels comfortable. The bass and drum combination is fast, with suitably light weight. The sound of the voice is easy to listen to, but it doesn't become too sweet. Like jazz, the pianist's masculine and powerful finger touch is impressive. Overall, the tone has a satisfying feel in the mid and low range and is easy to hear because the high range is not bright. Moreover, matching with a digital amplifier or balanced sound with the built-in USB-DAC was good, and the appeal of this amplifier seemed to be fully demonstrated.
In any case, over the digital input, the sense of freshness of the sound is good, and one can get a sense of tone that is more direct and has less loss than the analog input. The sound is continuous and smooth, and you can enjoy high-resolution images such as the 3D resolution of the instrument. Therefore, it is especially recommended for those who want to build a compact system using the built-in DAC.
Music genre compatibility Pops / Rock: A Jazz: A Classics: A
DENON
»
PMA-30
» 50,000 yen (excluding tax)
40W × 2 (4 ohms), Input: Analog RCA × 1 / Optical Digital × 1 / Coaxial Digital × 1 / Bluetooth, Speaker Jack: Banana Jack Compatible, Dimensions: 200 W × 86 H × 258 mm, Weight: 2.7 kg
High-quality sound that shows the atmosphere and lifts the mood.
The company's designer series of integrated amplifiers, including remote controls, have a sense of luxury and unity in design, and are of high quality. The amplifier can be positioned vertically or horizontally, and the display orientation changes automatically depending on its placement. In addition to coaxial and optical digital input, it is equipped with Bluetooth functionality. (No USB). The amplifier block uses a digital amplifier, the same as in the top model "PMA-60", but the PMA-60 mounts the TI device in a BTL configuration, while the PMA-60 mounts the Qualcomm DDFA. (I didn’t understand anything, but something is different inside, maybe we’re talking about bluetooth)
It is a soft tone and you can enjoy the sound. The piano trio has a moderate and comfortable soft piano touch and is smooth. The base also has a solid bottom, but has an elegant texture that doesn't stick out more than necessary. The drums are also carefully licked in texture, and they do not have a harsh sound and are comfortable to listen to.
The classics depict a lot of reverberation in the hall and the sound is felt by adults as a whole. The sound of all instruments has a soft touch and the sound does not become thick. In addition, there is continuity in the movement of the scale of the inner voice part, it captures the subtle expression, but the feeling of air and intonation of the performance comes naturally to the ear. It sounds so polite and pleasant.
Even with pop and rock, there's a nice touch and a matte feel to it, but it's as good as ever. It is a rich sound, thanks to which you can enjoy music without getting tired of listening even for a long time. Well balanced.
Music genre/compatibility Pops / Rock: A Jazz: A Classical: A
After listening to nine models simultaneously
As mentioned above, I've tried to audition integrated amps in the 50,000 yen range at a time, but there are some models that are particularly highly rated.
The range also ranges from palm-sized models equipped with digital amplifiers to desktop-sized models, and the options are quite wide. Generally speaking, the full-size budget model has the same design concept as the top model. The same applies to TEAC, which develops reference series in the size of an A4 sheet. However, only in the Denon PMA-30 can we say that the display reverses the inscriptions to show the difference of the PMA series.
Moreover, for the palm-sized FX-AUDIO and Fostex, it can be said that they perform superior in terms of audio perfection and cost-effectiveness even when compared to small sized flagships in the same price range.
Choosing a model that best suits a specific genre
The genre table at the end of the review of each device, I think, will allow you to make a choice in accordance with your preferences, but below I would like to present the recommended models by musical genre, from my point of view. First of all, for those who love acoustic instruments, I would recommend the Marantz PM 5005 and the Pioneer A-10 AE. The Marantz PM 5005 delivers elegant sound and confident performance. If you listen mostly to acoustic sources, from classical to jazz, this is it.
If you want to enjoy classical music with a more colorless and flat sound and want to take advantage of the volume function that is useful for small speakers, choose the Pioneer A-10AE.
If you like gray sound... Pioneer A-10AE
I would recommend the Yamaha A-S301 and Cambridge Audio AM5 for those who prefer rock and pop music. The Yamaha A-S301 delivers a refreshing full midrange and a sense of vibrant energy. The match is especially high when listening to rock, pop, R&B, etc.
You will enjoy the view of the world in comfort. If you're looking to cut costs further, the Cambridge Audio AM5 is a good candidate. The price is about half the price of the A-S301, and you can enjoy a taste of British sound.
Cambridge Audio AM5
If you want to enjoy PC file playback and high resolution on a budget, you should choose a model with USB input. If you are focused on cost, your choice is FX-AUDIO-D802J +,
and if you are focused on sound quality, then the TEAC AI-301DA-SP is a good candidate.
The Denon PMA-30 is recommended if you want to stick to compactness and design in addition to superior sound quality. It is equipped with a Bluetooth optical digital terminal, and the live compatibility will be good.
The AI-301DA-SP is also a strong candidate in that it combines sound quality and compactness.
The Sony STR-DH190 is feature-rich and also keeps the cost down. It has a Bluetooth FM tuner, an optical digital input and can be conveniently used on a TV.
If you still want to focus on cost-effectiveness focused on audio quality, I recommend the Fostex AP20d.
The input terminal is minimal and the cable that can be used with the speaker terminal is also limited by the spring, but either way it is well balanced and you can enjoy direct, monitor-like tone. It's a simple amp that gives you normal sound, so it's also worth using as your first amp.
What's the point of choosing products in the price range up to 50,000 yen (up to 35,000 rubles)?
Finally, I would like to list the important points when choosing a product in this price range. That is, as mentioned at the beginning, since this is a product designed with strict cost restrictions, naturally you should not look for too much versatility. The more features you get such as digital input, phono stage, headphone amplifier, etc., the more you will naturally pay, and at the same time the price difference will be 10,000-20,000 yen. There is a tendency for feature content to greatly impact the accuracy of audio quality. Therefore, I want to carefully look at the desired function and sound power and choose a device.
CONCLUSION from hifi-audio.ru
Japanese listeners, as usual, praised everyone; they don’t have bad models. I was especially touched by the recommendation:
“If you want to enjoy classical music with a more colorless and flat sound ,” then the Pioneer A-10AE is your choice.
As I understand it, the Yamaha A-S301 integrated was placed at the top of the pile as the best choice.
I was also interested in the Fostex amplifier.
We were pleasantly surprised by the information that the Teac AI-301 is equipped with the ICEpower amplification model of the Danish company.
It’s not very clear, but throughout the entire text it was clear that the reviewer really liked the Denon PMA-30 amplifier.
After reading this review, I became curious about the models
FOSTEX AP20 and TEAC AI-301DA-SP.
As for the Denon PMA-30 model, I was much more interested, and for a long time now, in the Denon PMA-50 and even more 60 models.
As for the Marantz PM-5005 amplifier, it is truly an excellent amplifier, but it is noticeably simpler than the Marantz PM-6004, which is where you should start getting acquainted with Hi-Fi equipment.
