I appreciate your review, especially the time and details you go into. My only suggestion is adding chapters navigation to your videos would be much appreciated as I am (and I'm sure many others are also) looking at a lot of your reviews trying to decide which amplifier to order. So many choices, how to choose! But man this amp looks like a beauty and I am sorely tempted to pull the trigger on it.
As for chapters I rely on youtube automatic chapters. But its weird - it works when you f.e. google my vids: then you have nice chapter selection. But I have no idea how (if thats something I do) enable this for you guys - the only control I see is "enable automatic chapters" and thats already selected. (I have no time to do that manually, I do these videos after my regular job in my free time)
@@k4syxWas the FM-801 review presumably done without using a preamp (SLP-90 or JC-2) but connected directly to the Gustard/Singxer/Semibreve DACs with built-in variable output? Thanks Tom, as always, for your excellent reviews!
You can try to replace input signal wires with either dual shielded ones, to eliminate 50 hz hum pickup You can to try to shield the transformer using a nickel foil
Very nice! Finally you have reviewed this beast, I really like your descriptions and reviews. I think I will be looking out for this amp now, or wait for sales or coupons. Great channel, and one of my favorite audio channels on TH-cam. I hope you get a lot more subscribers in the near future!
D5Pro here, a fantastic amplifier, especially with the Cary clone tube preamp. The Psvane classic tubes sound incredibly good, both units are just as you described! And nice to hear your thoughts at the end of this video regarding the D5Pro and this unit. With easy to drive speakers, the D5Pro is going to stay. Very happy! Thank you Tom!
Thank you! I have placed an order for this exact model. I will compare it with DartZeel D9 and let you know what i think. My preamp is the FM255 clone. So far i think the D9 is the best power amp i ever had so i am excited to try this one too.
@ Ah ok, I am so confused with all these Chinese amps😵💫 Do you have any suggestions for the best pre and power amp combo, I would spend up to £1000 on each item?
@@fusionfan6883 I would say the FM255 preamp clone is amazing. As for the power amps i need to compare FM801 to D9 before i comment about them. The problem is that there are different versions of said preamplifier/power amplifier and i can't post any links here as TH-cam removes them very fast. I can tell you that i shoped both FM255 and D9 from FunKenya store at Ali. I hope that helps.
Sometimes , I like to use solo singing with piano playing at the side to check the image .. vocal at the side and the hammer should hit each sting of the piano at the side quick and clear with the rhythm .. clarity of the vocal , image and layers of the notes ..
Loved this review! How does this compare to the E405? You discribed both as being relaxing to listen to I know that much correct? I guess though this one wouldn't be good for me as I use only rca connects with that hum.
@@GavinHodgson Id say exact. It shows whats in the recording. If there's a depth, youll hear it. If things are on planes close together, they will be close. It doesnt do artificial bubble for every recording. Bad recordings are simply flat.
Your comment that you need an amp that can handle under 2ohm loads means that the FM711 clones would not be suitable as its protection circuitry is set to trigger at 2ohm loads.
Hello how are you 🙂. Does this amp play music well at low volumes our living room is small and I want to hear a good sound stage and separation of the instruments without having to have the music too loud for the room.
Does anyone know if it would be possible to add a 12v trigger in, to one of these amplifiers? I would like it to integrate more seamlessly into a system with both home theatre and music components.
I think the coat is slightly better than on DartZeel. Seems to catch a little more light. I was sure that chassis is the same (just larger) but it seems that the are some small differences
@@annebokma4637 Yes its pricey. Some of the clones are in range of 2500-3500USD and I wonder who gets that. I mean, maybe one day I will get one to check the soud quality, because they are not being bought for brand etc.
@k4syx true if you add what a name brand would add then a 3500$ amp should perform like a 15k amp that has dealers etc. or... They lure you with cheap amps of nice quality and stuff you on the expensive one as soon as you are hooked 😎 for now I am mostly going to buy second hand amps, but I might try one of those za3.. I like the zd3 that I just acquired 😁
Yes I counted. Still Elna. I spent the extra on my D5proBC with 6 Vishay 10000uf power caps per channel. 120000uf total. No wonder it needs a soft start or the house lights would dim on start up! 🎵🎶 😮💡🎶🎵
Only those from manufacturer - I dont have an AP as Im not a "professional" reviewer earning my salary here :D (btw YT gives me ~250USD monthly, I would be crazy if I tried to live this way)
ZeroZone was trading blows with DartZeel, so Id say this one is better. ZeroZones would be more detailed though. And - in comparison - like 2.5x cheaper (thats a factor too!)
@@k4syxwith zerozone you mean the monoblocks? Are they almost as good as the D5 Pro? They are a quite a bit cheaper. Do you know something about the power consumption? Read somewhere that the dartzeel consumes very much even in idle, would think that the monoblocks are way more efficient?
I still need to hear it. SQ does matter too. Also, why would you think this one wouldnt have support? I've seen for my self spare parts provided by sellers from Ali. And theres the thing what if youu have symmetrical build, you can ask any shop for repair as its very easy to compare both channels. Though theres less and less independent workshops like that :(
Of course sq is an issue and ideally one would listen before purchasing. I was under the impression that you had bought this without hearing it first. That being said I expect some people will purchase this amp based on trusting your expressed opinion which I could argue is what will happen with the Gallion products except for the fact that there are many more favourable reviews from respected sources. I believe you had some reservations about buying directly from relatively obscure sources in China in the past. For that matter the the Gallion products are made in China but you have the security, for lack of a better word, of a North American company and principal owner with a face to purchase it from and seek relief from if there is a problem. Perhaps this doesn’t present a concern or advantage for you given where you live. I am not casting aspersions at where you bought it from or you. Personally, I am inclined to trust that Gallion uses genuine parts and that they will stand behind their products. Ymmv. I don’t see this as much of an issue with irresistibly cheap products. I enjoy your content and look forward to seeing it. Regards.
@@olbucky9413 well, sorry, but I went to their website and besides pretty pictures of landscapes and the outside of the amp there is nothing that would convince me that a Galion amp is actually better. 🙄
@@mthorby1 Because I think @mytglg6uh isn't smart enough to speak more than one language and can't understand how putting out nteresting, helpful videos with specialist content (and specialist vocabulary) in a second language - and doing that regularly - is in itself a MAJOR achievement. Moreover, Tom (whose channel it is) is a really great, helpful guy and very knowledgeable. I speak 5 languages but would feel very timid about putting out videos in French or German (two of my better languages) since I know that I don't know enough of the specialist vocabulary in those languages, let alone Italian or Greek.
Great review. I'm anxious for your head to head comparisons. They both check all my boxes. EXCEPT both run hot, right? Which is cooler? Also, do you have any other amp in the wings that you think might compete wth the DarZel and this FM ?🫢🙏
I appreciate your review, especially the time and details you go into. My only suggestion is adding chapters navigation to your videos would be much appreciated as I am (and I'm sure many others are also) looking at a lot of your reviews trying to decide which amplifier to order. So many choices, how to choose! But man this amp looks like a beauty and I am sorely tempted to pull the trigger on it.
As for chapters I rely on youtube automatic chapters. But its weird - it works when you f.e. google my vids: then you have nice chapter selection. But I have no idea how (if thats something I do) enable this for you guys - the only control I see is "enable automatic chapters" and thats already selected.
(I have no time to do that manually, I do these videos after my regular job in my free time)
@@k4syxWas the FM-801 review presumably done without using a preamp (SLP-90 or JC-2) but connected directly to the Gustard/Singxer/Semibreve DACs with built-in variable output? Thanks Tom, as always, for your excellent reviews!
You can try to replace input signal wires with either dual shielded ones, to eliminate 50 hz hum pickup
You can to try to shield the transformer using a nickel foil
Very nice! Finally you have reviewed this beast, I really like your descriptions and reviews. I think I will be looking out for this amp now, or wait for sales or coupons. Great channel, and one of my favorite audio channels on TH-cam. I hope you get a lot more subscribers in the near future!
Save your $ and get the Burmester T9.3 T9.4 clone instead.
Thank you for your time and dedication reviewing the Chinese clones, I would like to hear your comments on clones based on the Nelson Pass designs.
D5Pro here, a fantastic amplifier, especially with the Cary clone tube preamp. The Psvane classic tubes sound incredibly good, both units are just as you described! And nice to hear your thoughts at the end of this video regarding the D5Pro and this unit. With easy to drive speakers, the D5Pro is going to stay. Very happy! Thank you Tom!
D5Pro handily beats this amp.
Thank you! I have placed an order for this exact model. I will compare it with DartZeel D9 and let you know what i think. My preamp is the FM255 clone. So far i think the D9 is the best power amp i ever had so i am excited to try this one too.
Isn’t it the same as the D9?
Please do share your thoughts!
@@fusionfan6883 Not really. The chassis they use is the same and the placement of the transformer/pcb but the circuits are different.
@ Ah ok, I am so confused with all these Chinese amps😵💫 Do you have any suggestions for the best pre and power amp combo, I would spend up to £1000 on each item?
@@fusionfan6883 I would say the FM255 preamp clone is amazing. As for the power amps i need to compare FM801 to D9 before i comment about them. The problem is that there are different versions of said preamplifier/power amplifier and i can't post any links here as TH-cam removes them very fast. I can tell you that i shoped both FM255 and D9 from FunKenya store at Ali. I hope that helps.
I look forward to the comparison!
I liked your review as well! I'll look into it further. Thanks!
Great review Tom! Thank you! I have the D5 Pro and am very happy. All the best, Rob in Switzerland
Sometimes , I like to use solo singing with piano playing at the side to check the image .. vocal at the side and the hammer should hit each sting of the piano at the side quick and clear with the rhythm .. clarity of the vocal , image and layers of the notes ..
Thank you for a very good review. They were a bit naughty with the 'balanced' inputs becoming standard inside
Loved this review! How does this compare to the E405? You discribed both as being relaxing to listen to I know that much correct? I guess though this one wouldn't be good for me as I use only rca connects with that hum.
Excellent presentation 👍 subscribed! Greece is watching 🇬🇷
Thanks and greets from Poland! ;)
How does this compare to the FM300A? Same exact sound, just more power?
it looks really really good! 👍
Don’t forget the Beast from the East! A-75. I see a three-way comparison coming!
Your content is excellent
Huge fan of your channel
Thank You 🙏
Appreciate your hard work.
So it is like AB class? Looks great. This is my favorite.
It is Class A/B
Great review, this one sounds like a winner! You mentioned imaging was very good, but how is soundstage width compared to other amps?
…and soundstage depth?
Also great, in all dimensions!
@@GavinHodgson Id say exact. It shows whats in the recording. If there's a depth, youll hear it. If things are on planes close together, they will be close. It doesnt do artificial bubble for every recording.
Bad recordings are simply flat.
A jak wypada w stosunku do clona Accuphase ?
Clone is not the word to use.
Clone is an exact copy of something else.
Close copy is a better word.
DartZeel "Inspired" circuit etc?
🎵🎶🙂👌🎶🎵
Your comment that you need an amp that can handle under 2ohm loads means that the FM711 clones would not be suitable as its protection circuitry is set to trigger at 2ohm loads.
Thanks! Kinda wish it had trigger in 🤔
And Tom what U like now at most?
Dartzeel D5 Pro
Accuphase A-75
or
FM-Akustics 801
?
How creditable are the specs? Are there any measurments of the clone online? Thanks for the video, very interesting stuff :) Very tempted to get one.
If you want to hear scary good vocals listen to Harry Bellafonte live at Carnegie hall
Hi, Have you tested it together with its fm255 clone preamplifier?
Hello how are you 🙂. Does this amp play music well at low volumes our living room is small and I want to hear a good sound stage and separation of the instruments without having to have the music too loud for the room.
Why would you have a monster amp like this in a small room ?? To impress your boy/girlfriend?
Does anyone know if it would be possible to add a 12v trigger in, to one of these amplifiers? I would like it to integrate more seamlessly into a system with both home theatre and music components.
Black and no unnecessary knobs? Might be a contender indeed 👍
I think the coat is slightly better than on DartZeel. Seems to catch a little more light. I was sure that chassis is the same (just larger) but it seems that the are some small differences
@@k4syxit's just the price, for that money I can buy 2x citation 22 to use as 400w mono blocks. Now to get that money first 🤔😁😎
@@annebokma4637 Yes its pricey. Some of the clones are in range of 2500-3500USD and I wonder who gets that. I mean, maybe one day I will get one to check the soud quality, because they are not being bought for brand etc.
@k4syx true if you add what a name brand would add then a 3500$ amp should perform like a 15k amp that has dealers etc. or... They lure you with cheap amps of nice quality and stuff you on the expensive one as soon as you are hooked 😎 for now I am mostly going to buy second hand amps, but I might try one of those za3.. I like the zd3 that I just acquired 😁
This master version still only has 4 10000uF caps per channel right?
Yes I counted.
Still Elna.
I spent the extra on my D5proBC with 6 Vishay 10000uf power caps per channel.
120000uf total. No wonder it needs a soft start or the house lights would dim on start up!
🎵🎶 😮💡🎶🎵
Could you compare TOPPING B200 with them-
On All Levels!?
D5pro or FM 801?
Can you post measurements? Thd full power? Signal 2 noize ratio. Noize floor. Distortion
Only those from manufacturer - I dont have an AP as Im not a "professional" reviewer earning my salary here :D
(btw YT gives me ~250USD monthly, I would be crazy if I tried to live this way)
Thanks
the final compassion review = Ali runs out of clones to test, right?
This one looks a very good build do they offer the amplifier in a mono design or a multichannel design?
Yes i think mono versions of FM amplifiers are available.
Thank you I’ll take a look
Yes there are FM801 in mono versions, more expensive of course. But they look sweet.
Can’t find them do you have a link?
You should shield the transformer on this and other amps.
Maybe: MUNDORF MCONNECT Copper Foil Flat Wiring Cable 70x0.07mm 4.9mm²
Ive also seen that its possible to buy ready made steel stamped shields, some of my clones (namely Musmys ones) have that
I’d like to know how this amp compares to a good Class D amp in terms of bass performance.
How does it compare to the Zero Zone amp?
ZeroZone was trading blows with DartZeel, so Id say this one is better. ZeroZones would be more detailed though. And - in comparison - like 2.5x cheaper (thats a factor too!)
@@k4syxwith zerozone you mean the monoblocks? Are they almost as good as the D5 Pro? They are a quite a bit cheaper. Do you know something about the power consumption? Read somewhere that the dartzeel consumes very much even in idle, would think that the monoblocks are way more efficient?
Thanks!
Thank you!
Pretty close to the price of a Gallion which would have reputable support if there was any problems.
I still need to hear it. SQ does matter too.
Also, why would you think this one wouldnt have support? I've seen for my self spare parts provided by sellers from Ali.
And theres the thing what if youu have symmetrical build, you can ask any shop for repair as its very easy to compare both channels.
Though theres less and less independent workshops like that :(
Of course sq is an issue and ideally one would listen before purchasing. I was under the impression that you had bought this without hearing it first. That being said I expect some people will purchase this amp based on trusting your expressed opinion which I could argue is what will happen with the Gallion products except for the fact that there are many more favourable reviews from respected sources. I believe you had some reservations about buying directly from relatively obscure sources in China in the past. For that matter the the Gallion products are made in China but you have the security, for lack of a better word, of a North American company and principal owner with a face to purchase it from and seek relief from if there is a problem. Perhaps this doesn’t present a concern or advantage for you given where you live. I am not casting aspersions at where you bought it from or you. Personally, I am inclined to trust that Gallion uses genuine parts and that they will stand behind their products. Ymmv. I don’t see this as much of an issue with irresistibly cheap products.
I enjoy your content and look forward to seeing it.
Regards.
@@olbucky9413 well, sorry, but I went to their website and besides pretty pictures of landscapes and the outside of the amp there is nothing that would convince me that a Galion amp is actually better. 🙄
I sure get a kick out of this kid... However, with his accent, can't understand half of what he's saying! Still entertaining.
I’m a native English speaker and I have no problem understanding him.
@@liegelord135Same here. His English is a million times better than my Polish!
Why do people write bullshit responses. When people like mr hifizone are trying to help you and me and everyone else. I think his reviews are perfect
@@mthorby1 Because I think @mytglg6uh isn't smart enough to speak more than one language and can't understand how putting out nteresting, helpful videos with specialist content (and specialist vocabulary) in a second language - and doing that regularly - is in itself a MAJOR achievement. Moreover, Tom (whose channel it is) is a really great, helpful guy and very knowledgeable. I speak 5 languages but would feel very timid about putting out videos in French or German (two of my better languages) since I know that I don't know enough of the specialist vocabulary in those languages, let alone Italian or Greek.
North Macedonia by the way...
Great review. I'm anxious for your head to head comparisons. They both check all my boxes. EXCEPT both run hot, right? Which is cooler? Also, do you have any other amp in the wings that you think might compete wth the DarZel and this FM ?🫢🙏
Burmester clone T9.3 or T9.4 also by Transaudio could be the closer contender. I guess Tom will run a full review on the T9.3 soon.