We need a video explaining / showing how one could add Bass Management (HPF) to mains when using an amp like the ZA3 that has sub-out. Where it is common for active subs to have LPF on the subs amp it's not clear how to filter bass from mains.
Awesome Randy! Beginner audiophile here. I bought my son the WiiM Ultra for christmas and was looking for a good amp. You sold me on the ZA3. Can't wait to try it out.
I actually went with black friday specials for best bang for my buck, two A07 Max in mono, Wiim Pro, and a S.M.S.L SU-1. Amps are perfectly driving my vintage pair of JBL L20t (Sensitivity: 87dB)
What up Cheap!! You certainly are entertaining! Love your stuff! Down to the nuts and bolts, thanks truly for the helpful info. You are a guiding light for so many of us in this audio wilderness. Seriously, Thanks!
Coffee in hand! 😂 And yeah... I did a search and it was funny... I didn't know I was on the FBI ",Watch List" 🎉 But it was the boat load of relatives I know aren't mine who are right there with me! Too bad the Advanced and Cambridge don't have HDMI Arc input. Then those two would, be killing it. I love the Primo.
TA-2 owner... The convenience of the low-pass/hi-pass with adjustable filters and the ability to adjust the volume of the subwoofer in the Trim Menu is hard to overlook. It can also handle 4 ohm speakers.
Tha Cambridge CXA-81 MKll is not a "clean" sound. Cambridge is known for their warmth. This integrated is warm with a tendency to sound bright if paired with the wrong speakers. Clean is a descriptor for class D amps. This is a class A/B amp and sounds accordingly with good detail, imaging and a wide and deep soundstage. It sounds great across all genres due to its warmth.
I got an Emotiva BasX A2m for $199 two weeks ago and is far better to me than my two mini Chinese amps. List price is under $300 in any case. Yes it's just an amp with zero frills and can be used as a pure power amp. I think you are forgetting it.
@@ThatHiFiMania Well it is US designed where as the others are Chinese designed. And an American based company that does support American jobs despite some manufacturing in China.
@@ThatHiFiMania I said MINI Chinese amps. You know the brands, with small form factors, are class D with external power supply. This is a different animal. Class AB, half size form factor, internal power supply but it seems it is an unusual switching power supply, not a big heavy torodial transformer.
I bought an Akai AM- A 402 Amp/rack system back in 1986 off the floor of a Service Merchandise and put it away years ago when I bought a Denon AVR system..I got it out and put everything into the cabinet and plug all the wires in for the tuner,remote control,cassette deck,turntable and I forgot how good this system sounded..now I have a nice stereo in my basement!😊
I STILL have to work on getting the best of off my Emotiva amp and sub, running through first Gen Magnepans in too small a room. The TA-1 I got from the Emofest giveaway (THANKS RANDY!!!!) is quite bright through the Maggies, so I'm thinking it will drive them well. I may have to figure out how to tone then down, but I honestly only had time to listen to one live album from The Lowest of the LOW and some Bluetooth TH-cam through my phone. Then I watched a bunch of movies through the other system in the same room, because I was lazy after hooking it all up...
@Pok-001 thanks, I will. I really just need to heat that end of the house and play around with it. I really want to hear the Maggie's through tubes, but will have to wait for that. Any good "warm" DACs that I should check out? Thanks!
Randy, if you enjoy hybrid amps, consider reviewing the SV500 by Vincent Audio, they just released a new version of this entry model at $1.500, the SV500 mk, that now includes HDMI and Bluetooth and an upgraded dac...
My amp of the year is the Schiit Rekkr, just ordered a second one because it went to last call. Such a shame it didn't sell well enough to continue production, it's really an amazing little guy.
@is3commander Well, I don't think speaker choice matters quite as much as it seems. Main desktop speakers are the OSD nero Mb5, I got them the same time as my first Rekkr to replace logitech computer speakers. 4 ohm, 90 db sensitivity. They work great, and they were recommended to someone by crutchfield for this purpose. I was curious about the amp so I decided to stress it a little bit and pulled my Unifi UB5 first gen from my main system. It sounded absolutely great, and held together nicely to a level higher than I could stand to listen. The bass did get muddy after about 85db, which is a good bit louder than I care to listen. So for a desktop, I don't think any pair of reasonable speakers will be disappointing. Just hooking up the second amp for mini monoblocks now, so I haven't really messed with it much, but initial impressions are still great. Eventilually, I'd still like to try them with easier to drive 8 ohm speakers just out of curiosity.
Just got the Fosi Audio BT20A and would like to know which speaker would be best - Polk Audio Signature Elite Es20 or the Sony SSCS5? Cheers Got some small Mordaunt-Short surround speakers for now. small office 3.5x4mts.
Hey Randy wondering why didn't the RSL iA255.1 make the list for great amps under $300? The feature set you get from it makes it an insane value for $110, bluetooth, sub out, high pass filter, etc. Imo a great budget choice that punches WAY above its price.
I’m enjoying the 2 mono ZA3. Affordable and really good. They run my Magnepan LRS just fine. I can’t afford Hegel so I’m good playing my goodwill records! Mike
@ Gday Michael. I would say any from the Italian manufacturer Sonus Faber . The Lumina range are incredible value for money In particular the Lumina Amator Five for a larger room or the Amator 2 for a smaller room. The next range up with Sonus Faber is the Sonetto range, which has just released the revised G2 models. I’ve heard the Sonetto G2 Five, with a Unison S6 amp . Great speakers for a Larger space. Other options from the Italians I would also personally consider, are from the brand Opera , the Primo, or the Grand Mezza. Also worth noting is Unison Research own speakers, the Max Mini, or the Max 1, these would suit large spaces. I personally use Sonus Faber Cremona Auditor. IMO one of the best speakers available at any price… Hard to get now as they’re an older model and not many people let them go, however They are out there on the 2nd hand market. A pair of these in a small to medium , or a larger room with a Rel Sub or two and you will not want for anything else. The Cremona Auditor have an uncanny ability to disappear and just lay the sound stage out there, incredible highs, mid and even the bass is great ( depending on on your listening levels and music taste and room size of course) Hope any of this helps! If you give me a better description of your room size and musical tastes I may be able to dial a suggestion in further. :)
@@michaelbaniak2903 Almost any speaker up to 5000€. Chario and Sonus Faber speakers is a nice match, both Italian. This amp can also drive well speakers like Epos, atc, pmc, Proac, Spendor, harbeth
Have you ever tried BRZHIFI MA12070 without Bass and Treble 80w? For me, it is one of the best D class, it's very cheep, and sound that thing makes, makes you just happy. Aspecialy for that money, 20$. Only one minus, it's not that powerful, probably 30w per chanell max, but for small room it is almost enough.
Aiyima A80 says you can replace opamps with RT3609SM, OPA2604, OPA2134, LM4562, JRC5532, OP275GSZ, OPA1612, etc. BUT I have no clue if there is enough room for Sparkos or Burson
@Final_Resolution get what you can afford now that is good enough with the opportunity to upgrade later at a fraction of the cost of a better one and done unit. If you can afford it absolutely get the hand made Italian amp.
I am never going to buy Chinese class-D amplifiers again. I bought a Topping pa3 and it died on me. It was still under warranty, so got a replacement. My second Topping pa3 died am me after two years. So I had to buy a new amplifier. I bought the Fosi Audio ZA3. The rightside speaker-out is not working anymore after 7 months. I just sent the store an email.
I can't find a shelf for my home stereo / tv. can anybody recommend one? all the shelves now seem to be 40cm / 15 in. and made for flat screen tvs. anything wider is way more expensive. help!!
Glad I found your channel. I've been collecting components over many years & think I'm finally ready to set it all up. I've got a Denon AVR-4400H at the heart plus a mix of Axiom & SVS speakers (2xM60ti, VP150, 4xM3s & pci 20-39 powered sub & 4xPrime Elevation). Out of the box, it's supposed to be capable of 9.2, it has pre-outs so with an added Amp it's possible for 5.4.2.atmos. I purchased a Fosi V3 when it was on sale. Is it a good match to power those extra two channels? If so, which ones should I use it to power? Appreciate any info or if anyone can point me in the right direction. Go Navy, I was surface fleet & my job was to find subs (STG) - not that we did (or could?) 😅
Tengo el smsl A-300 y quiero mejorar a otro mejor sin gastar mucho. Pienso en el Onkyo A-9110. Para acompañarlo con el DAC smsl DL200 por USB a mi PC, Polk subwoofer ES10 y Polk ES15. Es recomendable el Onkyo A-9110, o existen mejores opciones? I have the A-300 smsl and I want to upgrade to a better one without spending a lot. I think of the Onkyo A-9110. To accompany it with the DL200 smsl DAC via USB to my PC, Polk subwoofer ES10 and Polk ES15. Is the Onkyo A-9110 recommended, or are there better options?
The best amp of 2024 under $300 is the SMSL AO-300, which Randy sort of reviewed when he reviewed the AL-200. The AO-300 is the same guts but with a better headphone amp, a better chassis, and a subwoofer out, for $285 door to door. I have one and it absolutely *slaps*. Very possibly the best-sounding amp I've ever owned, and I've had some very, VERY expensive amps. And it's absolutely impossible to overwhelm the thing, too. I've hooked the trickiest loads I can find to it, and it doesn't bat an eyelash.
Check out the 3e audio a7 and a7 mono. Right up your alley being a tpa3255 based amp/s with pffb. Parts quality is better yet compared to likes of fosi v3mono etc. does this translate to a better sounding implementation? you be the judge!
Finally someone cares about Unison research products. Very nice small company with beautiful products. If you ever buy a Unico amplifier you will never feel the need to sell it. You can build a beautiful system around Unico amps. You can throw any expensive speaker into this amp and it will sound beautiful. Regarding Cambridge audio… I hate the sound signature of this company. It’s warm and harsh at the same time. Actually I sold all the CA equipment and now I am using a Unico with Pro-Ject Dac and Atlas cables.
With the inclusion of an award for amps over $1000, and not including amps under $150, I think it would be appropriate to rename your channel: " The Not-So-Cheap Audioman ". I read your review of the Aiyima A07 Pro, and love it. I will never pay $1000 or more for an amplifier!
Nor would I, but there are many folks who do and think that’s cheap. Hell, I built 3 entire 4-speaker systems for my family deal-hunting for less than that. I guess I’m as cheap as they come.
Sorry, amp of the year is sub $100, integral DAC with USB input (others optional), headphone output, passive speaker output for my computer desk. As much as everyone loves A07 style simple amps, realistically anywhere I have the space for real speakers, I have the space for a 17" wide receiver. Where I want small, I want an all-in-one DAC/headphone amp/speaker amp combo.
I have a za3. I think the only 1k speaker amp I’ll upgrade to is the vtv purifi monoblock with the sparkos pro op amp in them. But I guess that’s 2k since they are monoblocks
I've watched a bunch of your videos and you have me sold on wiim streamers. For simplicity's sake, I'm leaving toward the wiim amp. One question about it, can it drive four sets of ceiling speakers using a Pyle 4 channel speaker selector / splitter? Thanks!
I want an amp to power 2 premium bookshelf speakers and a sub inside, and 2 outdoor speakers and a buried-in-the-ground outdoor sub outside. Within those constraints, goal is premium music (integrated spotify streaming a plus) playing inside (open floorplan) and outside (blasting from house to 1/4 acre back yard) while entertaining, and we have just not had a lot of luck with wireless/bluetooth setups not dropping out, not pairing, etc. 500-100 for amp, and 500-1000 per pair of speakers, under 500 per amp. Help (do you do pair consultations??).
I bought the ZA3 earlier this year, very much as a result of watching this channel, and it's such an impressive piece of gear. But sometimes I think that this can't be the endgame, this dinky little thing. I used to have big chunky amps from Tandberg, Technics and the likes (yes, I'm that old). However, when I sit down and listen to some of my favourite music like The Chieftain's Tears of Stone or Anima Eterna's exceptionally detailed recording of Beethoven's 3rd, I think what the heck... I'll just order another one and run them in mono, so that it at least look a bit larger and more impressive. And maybe one for the bedroom. And one for the study? Probably one for my daughter as well. I use mine to power a pair of stage monitors, custom built for for voice reproduction and given to me by a B3 player who decided to retire. I need a truck to move them around the living room, so I don't. The little Fosi that probably weighs 1% of those boxes has no problems getting the sound level up to and beyond unpleasant while still sounding crisp. A well deserved "Product of the Year"!
The original Unico was a treat, too. I bought one when the line was new - sounded excellent! I wish I never sold it. The remote for that one was a solid wood block, which I thought was pretty unique and beautiful. I later bought an 'upgraded' version, which sounded worse, so I returned it. I've always got the corner of my eye out for a Primo or original Unico, but they rarely pop up.
Obviously you’re feeling better after grinding thru that cold - this one (for me) was back to classic CAM videos. Throwing out your opinion in a very interesting/viewable manner, while inviting everyone to have their opinions. Thanks and Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Im surprised the Emotiva A2M integrated amp wasn’t included in the under $300 category. I have one and a few of the Chinese class d amps and I’ll take the A2M over any of them.
Best AMP for KEF Concerto? It must be White ( light color) and not too big. Otherwise my wife will killer me.... Maybe PowerNode or Wiim AMP Pro. It will be ok?
Hey CHEAP audio man! How about living up (down?) to your name and showing of some truly cheap stuff? How about the best Bluetooth speaker under $50, etc.?
I tried the Wiimamp, bnut it didn't sound any better than my 200 euro Yamaha 2 x 20 watt receiver with Wiim mini. So I sent the Wiimamp back to the webshop.
NEW GAME while watching....Take a guess how may times cheapaudioman in this episode readjusts his eyeglasses back upon his nose ! Merry Christmas Everyone (except for the guy that ran over my mailbox)
I'm surprised you've not been sued for misrepresentation. You keep reviewing 'cheap amps ' but don't mention the additional cost of the PSU's. Add this cost to the product to get the 'expected' performance and you are up pricing up against regular named retail products. Not a fair comparison.
Protect your information with incogni.com/cheapaudioman and use the code "cheapaudioman" to get 60% off your annual plan!
We need a video explaining / showing how one could add Bass Management (HPF) to mains when using an amp like the ZA3 that has sub-out. Where it is common for active subs to have LPF on the subs amp it's not clear how to filter bass from mains.
''The Spacelords - Synapse'' Look it up and prepare to have your mind blown!
Sell Out !!!
Thanks for sharing Randy. Something for most folks out there.
Awesome Randy! Beginner audiophile here. I bought my son the WiiM Ultra for christmas and was looking for a good amp. You sold me on the ZA3. Can't wait to try it out.
I actually went with black friday specials for best bang for my buck, two A07 Max in mono, Wiim Pro, and a S.M.S.L SU-1. Amps are perfectly driving my vintage pair of JBL L20t (Sensitivity: 87dB)
Nice selection Randy. I think the RSL iA255-1 belongs in there. I have been very impressed with it.
What up Cheap!! You certainly are entertaining! Love your stuff! Down to the nuts and bolts, thanks truly for the helpful info. You are a guiding light for so many of us in this audio wilderness. Seriously, Thanks!
Please give a recommendation for floorstanding speaker 🙏 i got confused choosing oberon 9 or sonus faber lumina III. Maybe any other option.
Coffee in hand! 😂 And yeah... I did a search and it was funny... I didn't know I was on the FBI ",Watch List" 🎉 But it was the boat load of relatives I know aren't mine who are right there with me! Too bad the Advanced and Cambridge don't have HDMI Arc input. Then those two would, be killing it. I love the Primo.
TA-2 owner... The convenience of the low-pass/hi-pass with adjustable filters and the ability to adjust the volume of the subwoofer in the Trim Menu is hard to overlook. It can also handle 4 ohm speakers.
Tha Cambridge CXA-81 MKll is not a "clean" sound. Cambridge is known for their warmth.
This integrated is warm with a tendency to sound bright if paired with the wrong speakers. Clean is a descriptor for class D amps. This is a class A/B amp and sounds accordingly with good detail, imaging and a wide and deep soundstage.
It sounds great across all genres due to its warmth.
Clean and warm are not mutually exclusive, nor does being "warm" make it always sound good.
You think warmth can't sound clean?
I know is off-topic here, but have you ever tried the Geshelli J3 with Sparkos op-amps against the Schiit Bifrost 2/64?
Will the Fosi ZA3 power Sony SSCS5’s, or should I get Edifier R1850s which are powered speakers?
I don’t have the space for a large amplifier/reciver
I got an Emotiva BasX A2m for $199 two weeks ago and is far better to me than my two mini Chinese amps. List price is under $300 in any case. Yes it's just an amp with zero frills and can be used as a pure power amp. I think you are forgetting it.
@@rapier5 why aren’t you referring to the Bas X as “chinese”? Considering that’s where it is also made.
@@ThatHiFiMania Well it is US designed where as the others are Chinese designed. And an American based company that does support American jobs despite some manufacturing in China.
@rapier5 and the device you are typing this on is made?
@@nathanaelcole8466 I have an Emotiva xda-3. Using it as a preamp. It’s great. But guess where it’s made???
@@ThatHiFiMania
I said MINI Chinese amps. You know the brands, with small form factors, are class D with external power supply. This is a different animal. Class AB, half size form factor, internal power supply but it seems it is an unusual switching power supply, not a big heavy torodial transformer.
Randy U can swap out op-amps on the AIYIMA A80...Replaceable op amp chips: RT3609SM, OPA2604, OPA2134, LM4562, JRC5532, OP275GSZ, OPA1612, etc.
No kidding! That is cool. I was scared to take this one apart
I bought an Akai AM- A 402 Amp/rack system back in 1986 off the floor of a Service Merchandise and put it away years ago when I bought a Denon AVR system..I got it out and put everything into the cabinet and plug all the wires in for the tuner,remote control,cassette deck,turntable and I forgot how good this system sounded..now I have a nice stereo in my basement!😊
I own the Unico for more than 20 years. Never felt the urge to buy another.
Fosi V3 with 48/10 supply, fantastic combo.
I have one of those on a system, too, and it’s top-notch for the price.
If I buy a Wiim will you stop talking about Wiim for a while? I'm kinda Wiim-ed out.
Advance Paris X-i75 is on the list - we'll, I'm enjoying making music with my Piega Classic 3.0 speakers!
One word for your channel GREAT!!!
I STILL have to work on getting the best of off my Emotiva amp and sub, running through first Gen Magnepans in too small a room.
The TA-1 I got from the Emofest giveaway (THANKS RANDY!!!!) is quite bright through the Maggies, so I'm thinking it will drive them well.
I may have to figure out how to tone then down, but I honestly only had time to listen to one live album from The Lowest of the LOW and some Bluetooth TH-cam through my phone.
Then I watched a bunch of movies through the other system in the same room, because I was lazy after hooking it all up...
There's always the possibility of using one of the trustee 5 band equalizes that Randy reviewed a couple of years ago.
Emotiva is on the cool side but give it some time.
If you still feel you need warmth do it at the source. A warm DAC.
@Pok-001 thanks, I will.
I really just need to heat that end of the house and play around with it.
I really want to hear the Maggie's through tubes, but will have to wait for that.
Any good "warm" DACs that I should check out?
Thanks!
Randy, if you enjoy hybrid amps, consider reviewing the SV500 by Vincent Audio, they just released a new version of this entry model at $1.500, the SV500 mk, that now includes HDMI and Bluetooth and an upgraded dac...
My amp of the year is the Schiit Rekkr, just ordered a second one because it went to last call. Such a shame it didn't sell well enough to continue production, it's really an amazing little guy.
What speakers?
@is3commander Well, I don't think speaker choice matters quite as much as it seems.
Main desktop speakers are the OSD nero Mb5, I got them the same time as my first Rekkr to replace logitech computer speakers. 4 ohm, 90 db sensitivity. They work great, and they were recommended to someone by crutchfield for this purpose.
I was curious about the amp so I decided to stress it a little bit and pulled my Unifi UB5 first gen from my main system. It sounded absolutely great, and held together nicely to a level higher than I could stand to listen. The bass did get muddy after about 85db, which is a good bit louder than I care to listen.
So for a desktop, I don't think any pair of reasonable speakers will be disappointing.
Just hooking up the second amp for mini monoblocks now, so I haven't really messed with it much, but initial impressions are still great.
Eventilually, I'd still like to try them with easier to drive 8 ohm speakers just out of curiosity.
I want two new categories 1) best monoblock for left channel and 2) best monoblock for right channel.
You didn't mention the emotiva ta1 which I bought because of your recommendation
Galion TS A75 gets my vote. $1500.
I want one...I am debating Galion or China's tube amp.
I have it and love it.
@@postaudio I am jealous
@postaudio TOO BAD Cheap Audio man doesn't know about great sound!
I sold my Yamaha as2200 and replaced it with the Ts-A75. Hell of an amp!!
What's the best AVR (for video) and what are the best monoblocks (for 2.0 or 2.1 audio) to go with it if money isn't an issue?
Just got the Fosi Audio BT20A and would like to know which speaker would be best - Polk Audio Signature Elite Es20 or the Sony SSCS5? Cheers
Got some small Mordaunt-Short surround speakers for now. small office 3.5x4mts.
Which amp would be good, to power rear surround speakers, for an Atmos setup? I need to power two more channels.
Hey Randy wondering why didn't the RSL iA255.1 make the list for great amps under $300? The feature set you get from it makes it an insane value for $110, bluetooth, sub out, high pass filter, etc. Imo a great budget choice that punches WAY above its price.
Would like to see you review more cheap tube amplifiers next year
I’m enjoying the 2 mono ZA3.
Affordable and really good.
They run my Magnepan LRS just fine.
I can’t afford Hegel so I’m good playing my goodwill records!
Mike
In your opinion what would be a good tuner to add on to the Advanced Paris?
I bought the Unison Primo, SUCH a killer amp synergy in my particular audio system , sweet Italian amplifier bargain! Merry Christmas Randy
I just bought the Unico Primo and wondering what speakers pair well with this amp?
@ Gday Michael. I would say any from the Italian manufacturer Sonus Faber . The Lumina range are incredible value for money In particular the Lumina Amator Five for a larger room or the Amator 2 for a smaller room.
The next range up with Sonus Faber is the Sonetto range, which has just released the revised G2 models. I’ve heard the Sonetto G2 Five, with a Unison S6 amp . Great speakers for a Larger space.
Other options from the Italians I would also personally consider, are from the brand Opera , the Primo, or the Grand Mezza.
Also worth noting is Unison Research own speakers, the Max Mini, or the Max 1, these would suit large spaces.
I personally use Sonus Faber Cremona Auditor. IMO one of the best speakers available at any price… Hard to get now as they’re an older model and not many people let them go, however They are out there on the 2nd hand market. A pair of these in a small to medium , or a larger room with a Rel Sub or two and you will not want for anything else.
The Cremona Auditor have an uncanny ability to disappear and just lay the sound stage out there, incredible highs, mid and even the bass is great ( depending on on your listening levels and music taste and room size of course)
Hope any of this helps! If you give me a better description of your room size and musical tastes I may be able to dial a suggestion in further. :)
@@michaelbaniak2903 opera speakers is perfect match
@@michaelbaniak2903 Almost any speaker up to 5000€. Chario and Sonus Faber speakers is a nice match, both Italian. This amp can also drive well speakers like Epos, atc, pmc, Proac, Spendor, harbeth
Have you ever tried BRZHIFI MA12070 without Bass and Treble 80w?
For me, it is one of the best D class, it's very cheep, and sound that thing makes, makes you just happy. Aspecialy for that money, 20$.
Only one minus, it's not that powerful, probably 30w per chanell max, but for small room it is almost enough.
Aiyima A80 says you can replace opamps with RT3609SM, OPA2604, OPA2134, LM4562, JRC5532, OP275GSZ, OPA1612, etc. BUT I have no clue if there is enough room for Sparkos or Burson
Honestly what’s the point? If you are going to spend more money to upgrade the opamps, why not just buy a better amp in the first place?
@Final_Resolution get what you can afford now that is good enough with the opportunity to upgrade later at a fraction of the cost of a better one and done unit. If you can afford it absolutely get the hand made Italian amp.
Can replace Sparkos or Burson
Zou de Aiyima A80 een goede combinatie zijn met de Wiim mini en een paar Borea bro3 van Trangle?
For someone like me who most of the the time don't know what you are talking about. I still enjoy watching and have learned allot. Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄 to the cheap audio man love your highly enjoyable and informative reviews 😊
I am never going to buy Chinese class-D amplifiers again.
I bought a Topping pa3 and it died on me. It was still under warranty, so got a replacement. My second Topping pa3 died am me after two years. So I had to buy a new amplifier.
I bought the Fosi Audio ZA3. The rightside speaker-out is not working anymore after 7 months. I just sent the store an email.
I can't find a shelf for my home stereo / tv. can anybody recommend one? all the shelves now seem to be 40cm / 15 in. and made for flat screen tvs. anything wider is way more expensive. help!!
Glad I found your channel. I've been collecting components over many years & think I'm finally ready to set it all up. I've got a Denon AVR-4400H at the heart plus a mix of Axiom & SVS speakers (2xM60ti, VP150, 4xM3s & pci 20-39 powered sub & 4xPrime Elevation). Out of the box, it's supposed to be capable of 9.2, it has pre-outs so with an added Amp it's possible for 5.4.2.atmos. I purchased a Fosi V3 when it was on sale. Is it a good match to power those extra two channels? If so, which ones should I use it to power? Appreciate any info or if anyone can point me in the right direction.
Go Navy, I was surface fleet & my job was to find subs (STG) - not that we did (or could?) 😅
Tengo el smsl A-300 y quiero mejorar a otro mejor sin gastar mucho. Pienso en el Onkyo A-9110. Para acompañarlo con el DAC smsl DL200 por USB a mi PC, Polk subwoofer ES10 y Polk ES15. Es recomendable el Onkyo A-9110, o existen mejores opciones?
I have the A-300 smsl and I want to upgrade to a better one without spending a lot. I think of the Onkyo A-9110. To accompany it with the DL200 smsl DAC via USB to my PC, Polk subwoofer ES10 and Polk ES15. Is the Onkyo A-9110 recommended, or are there better options?
The best amp of 2024 under $300 is the SMSL AO-300, which Randy sort of reviewed when he reviewed the AL-200. The AO-300 is the same guts but with a better headphone amp, a better chassis, and a subwoofer out, for $285 door to door. I have one and it absolutely *slaps*. Very possibly the best-sounding amp I've ever owned, and I've had some very, VERY expensive amps. And it's absolutely impossible to overwhelm the thing, too. I've hooked the trickiest loads I can find to it, and it doesn't bat an eyelash.
Check out the 3e audio a7 and a7 mono. Right up your alley being a tpa3255 based amp/s with pffb. Parts quality is better yet compared to likes of fosi v3mono etc. does this translate to a better sounding implementation? you be the judge!
will buy 2 ZA3 as mono blocks, and i am sure they are very good.
Finally someone cares about Unison research products. Very nice small company with beautiful products. If you ever buy a Unico amplifier you will never feel the need to sell it. You can build a beautiful system around Unico amps. You can throw any expensive speaker into this amp and it will sound beautiful. Regarding Cambridge audio… I hate the sound signature of this company. It’s warm and harsh at the same time. Actually I sold all the CA equipment and now I am using a Unico with Pro-Ject Dac and Atlas cables.
With the inclusion of an award for amps over $1000, and not including amps under $150, I think it would be appropriate to rename your channel: " The Not-So-Cheap Audioman ". I read your review of the Aiyima A07 Pro, and love it. I will never pay $1000 or more for an amplifier!
Well then you are severely limiting your self!!! If you think 1000 is expensive, then you are in the wrong hobby.
Nor would I, but there are many folks who do and think that’s cheap. Hell, I built 3 entire 4-speaker systems for my family deal-hunting for less than that. I guess I’m as cheap as they come.
Have to get the SMSL RAW-HA1 in. It would be my choice without a doubt for the best under $300 by far.
Sorry, amp of the year is sub $100, integral DAC with USB input (others optional), headphone output, passive speaker output for my computer desk. As much as everyone loves A07 style simple amps, realistically anywhere I have the space for real speakers, I have the space for a 17" wide receiver. Where I want small, I want an all-in-one DAC/headphone amp/speaker amp combo.
The sound of these amps and the power, are they better than the Yamaha CR2020?
Would I be gaining so much more sound wise?
Thanks.
No. The Yamaha Cr 2020 sounds better than anything under $3000 sold today.
@BobRiedel I have the ads L780/2 speakers and the Yamaha playing right now, the sound stage is amazing on this little setup.
Thanks
Fantastic list, Randy!
Really really happy with my Wiim Amp Pro. Way better than I thought it would be
So doesn't the Zen Dac v3 make the 300 or under list?
Which Op Amos do you reccomend for the VA3 ?!??
Great video. I really like the Fosi amps for some reason. Just subscribed...
So I have the Wiim ultra coming in the mail should I have went with the Wiim amp since it is a streamer and a amp?
Depends on what you’re looking for. The ultra has way more functionality and versatility. I’d go with the ultra and pair it with a nice amp
You can swap out opams in the Aiyima a80
@@D1N02
OP Amps can be replaced on any amp, all you need is a soldering iron & socket.
if they fit
I have a za3. I think the only 1k speaker amp I’ll upgrade to is the vtv purifi monoblock with the sparkos pro op amp in them. But I guess that’s 2k since they are monoblocks
Very interesting choices 🤔🤔
Wiim are really making inroads into the budget hi Fi market now.
The online Pro bench tests
well given its price too.
I've watched a bunch of your videos and you have me sold on wiim streamers. For simplicity's sake, I'm leaving toward the wiim amp. One question about it, can it drive four sets of ceiling speakers using a Pyle 4 channel speaker selector / splitter? Thanks!
I hope Randy can review powersupply and cryptonite cables!
I want an amp to power 2 premium bookshelf speakers and a sub inside, and 2 outdoor speakers and a buried-in-the-ground outdoor sub outside. Within those constraints, goal is premium music (integrated spotify streaming a plus) playing inside (open floorplan) and outside (blasting from house to 1/4 acre back yard) while entertaining, and we have just not had a lot of luck with wireless/bluetooth setups not dropping out, not pairing, etc. 500-100 for amp, and 500-1000 per pair of speakers, under 500 per amp. Help (do you do pair consultations??).
I bought the ZA3 earlier this year, very much as a result of watching this channel, and it's such an impressive piece of gear. But sometimes I think that this can't be the endgame, this dinky little thing. I used to have big chunky amps from Tandberg, Technics and the likes (yes, I'm that old). However, when I sit down and listen to some of my favourite music like The Chieftain's Tears of Stone or Anima Eterna's exceptionally detailed recording of Beethoven's 3rd, I think what the heck... I'll just order another one and run them in mono, so that it at least look a bit larger and more impressive. And maybe one for the bedroom. And one for the study? Probably one for my daughter as well.
I use mine to power a pair of stage monitors, custom built for for voice reproduction and given to me by a B3 player who decided to retire. I need a truck to move them around the living room, so I don't. The little Fosi that probably weighs 1% of those boxes has no problems getting the sound level up to and beyond unpleasant while still sounding crisp. A well deserved "Product of the Year"!
Great video. Why is your iWatch backwards. Lol. Appreciate your channel.
Thanks. Surprised the A10 from Advance Paris did not make list...too expensive?
@@DG-rc6rr I think I did that video last year. This was just stuff from this year
@@cheapaudioman Ah, I am behind. I bought one based on your review among others. Super. super good int. amp. THANK YOU!
Can I hook up an Ayima A80 to a Nile’s SSV6?
This was the incogni video ever!
hey Randy! wish you could review the Playstream A7 and A5 from Advance Paris
Thanks Randy!! Happy Holidays to you and your family !!!
I guess I'm old school I just can't go to digital amplifiers
darTZeel NHB-108.. 🤫
D5Pro gets my first place vote
The ZA3 is out of stock in the UK. New replacement incoming?
Man, please try some Technics amp next year, SU-G700/G700M2, SU-GX70. I think you gonna have a blast. Cheers
The original Unico was a treat, too. I bought one when the line was new - sounded excellent! I wish I never sold it. The remote for that one was a solid wood block, which I thought was pretty unique and beautiful. I later bought an 'upgraded' version, which sounded worse, so I returned it. I've always got the corner of my eye out for a Primo or original Unico, but they rarely pop up.
Yes l have one, wood remote and all, via my spektor 2, bought in 2004 its sounds as wondrous as ever. Till death do us part.
Obviously you’re feeling better after grinding thru that cold - this one (for me) was back to classic CAM videos. Throwing out your opinion in a very interesting/viewable manner, while inviting everyone to have their opinions. Thanks and Merry Christmas to you and your family!
Not quite 100% but I’m getting close
Of course WiiM is mentioned
Im surprised the Emotiva A2M integrated amp wasn’t included in the under $300 category. I have one and a few of the Chinese class d amps and I’ll take the A2M over any of them.
I hope Audioman will survive the Trumpler area!
Best AMP for KEF Concerto? It must be White ( light color) and not too big. Otherwise my wife will killer me.... Maybe PowerNode or Wiim AMP Pro. It will be ok?
No Aiyimas?
Coffee ✅ Friday ✅ CAM ✅
Hey CHEAP audio man! How about living up (down?) to your name and showing of some truly cheap stuff? How about the best Bluetooth speaker under $50, etc.?
I tried the Wiimamp, bnut it didn't sound any better than my 200 euro Yamaha 2 x 20 watt receiver with Wiim mini. So I sent the Wiimamp back to the webshop.
I think you can swap op-amps on the A80
Fosi over Emotiva BasX A2M Class A/B?
I wish you would make sound test comparisons!!!!!!!
NEW GAME while watching....Take a guess how may times cheapaudioman in this episode readjusts his eyeglasses back upon his nose ! Merry Christmas Everyone (except for the guy that ran over my mailbox)
I made a cup of coffee, so I looked up Cheap Audio Man. 🎉
Fosi can pound sand.
The Wiim is interesting, especially because it has ARC.
I will grab a cup of coffee!
Wiim would be perfect if it only had a preamp!
Are we not going to talk about the stationary??? Twisbi pen?
I'm surprised you've not been sued for misrepresentation. You keep reviewing 'cheap amps ' but don't mention the additional cost of the PSU's. Add this cost to the product to get the 'expected' performance and you are up pricing up against regular named retail products. Not a fair comparison.
Randy really needs more coffee sponsors.
Only true geniuses call themselves idiots. Good call. How do you like the classic, the wizard by Black Sabbath?
I’m a bit upset that my Burmester didn’t even get a highly commended.😂
Speaking of Italian amps, I really belive that Powersoft Mezzo 604AD is the best amp for under $2K. Makes everything else look like a toy.
Schiit Gjallarhorn $299, class A/B that performs like class A. Fantastic amp. Not really part of Randy's, Fosi, Ayima, Cambridge, emotiva world tho...
At 5 minutes, why couldn't you say the brand name?