I bought the 7000a have it paired with my Wharfedale Evo 4.4 WiiM Pro and Yamaha CDS2000 works really well with an amazing soundstage almost like surround sound with just 2 speakers. Strongly recommend.
I recommend actually just using a raspberry pi 3a+ into the usb of the 7000a. It will sound better than the wiim but you need to be comfortable with setting it up and restarting it when it crashes every so often. Worth it though… you can play native dsd on it if you use Volumio.
I use an System Audio (5.1) WISA setup for TV. No receiver, no wires. Top quality. I have a Klipsh WISA sub taking up the rear. Never looked back. The future.
For the majority of my TV viewing I use a Bose soundbar. It is a significant improvement on the internal speaker, and has an extremely good user friendly remote control which can be programmed to control the TV at the same time. It is quite good enough for my ageing hearing to understand the TV sound. When watching high quality music programs then I unplug the optical input into the Bose and plug in the input into my Auralic DAC. It's more hassle since everything is not controlled from the same remote, but obviously for worthwhile music it is a significant improvement.
After watching Jay's Audio Lab's reports from the Munich Show, it's refreshing to rejoin the real world with your latest review. I just don't believe I'll ever have half a million quid to spend on a pair of monoblocs to drive my quarter million $ speakers. A big reason I started watching ABA is your reviews of more affordable products. For me, TV is just TV. Not great sound, but it just doesn't matter to me. I know that many others feel differently, and I completely respect their opinion.
I very much like this style of review. Setting context and audio signatures of equipment is very helpful as well as when you recommend systems and suggest system synergy. Really brilliant method of review!
This informative video leads me to one definite conclusion. The Cambridge Audio AXA35 integrated amplifier is a stonker at £350. Plenty of analogue inputs, a phono stage, bass and treble controls, headphone jack. Not a sophisticated amplifier with built in dac or digital inputs, but for general use and the enjoyment of music, it has all you need, and as Tarun indicated, capable of a very creditable performance on the warm side.
Thanks for another great review - one that I’ve been eager to see. After the popularity of the 6000A I was surprised that more reviewers didn’t pounce upon the 7000A immediately after its release. Encouraging to hear about the sonic performance credentials this offers alongside the new features such as HDMI. For me, on paper at least, this seems to hit a sweet spot of providing good Class A/B amplification and connectivity without going the whole hog of integrating streaming. It seems to allow more flexibility and a better platform for upgrading, particularly given the pre-amp mode option.
I'm a big fan of Audiolab the purchase of the 6000a was one of my better choices . I got the chance to listen to 7000a and 9000a both very good, the 9000 is something else . My heart was won by neither, the 8300a took my hand and led me too the cash desk . Hopefully Tarun will get to review this made for me Amplifier . Tarun your spot on with this review .
@@hclandscapes Its neutrality is something else at this price point . The bass mids highs are reliant on the source, I have not found this in any amp, at this price point . Flick of a switch the pre amp section is excellent . But it's more than enough as is .If you get the chance, demo the 8300a .
@@hclandscapes He probably got it cheap, 8300a was released 7-8 years ago, no DAC and Peter Tyson was flogging them recently for about £550 or so as they are new old stock.
8300a is a great amplifier. I combined it with the RME ADI 2 DAC since I wanted to get the parametric EQ for tone control. Using separate devices for the analog and the digital parts of the chain makes perfect sense to me.
Thanks for the detailed review. I enjoyed watching it. I noticed you pointed out that you need to wait a while for the 7000A display to exit out of the menu. There is a quicker way if you have not got the remote handy though. You can press and hold the "Mode" rotary/button for two seconds, and this enables you to quickly go back up a level in the menu, or exit out of it.
Nice review. Your videos are always clear and concise, easy to follow and cover the main points needed for consideration in the purchase of the kit under review. Well done. Keep up the good work !😀
Thanks again for your thorough review. In answer to your question, I have a Marantz SR 5006 AVR connected to a Monitor Audio Radius One passive sound bar and a Totem Storm sub. I like the sound I get overall - it replicates a 3.1 system very well, though perhaps not the same as true surround speakers in a 5.1 or greater configuration. I've always wanted to keep my television system separate from my stereo. As a side note, due to the way my cable subscription works, I have to watch some programs through the internet and the TV speakers. I have to say, my Sony XBR65X850E has unusually excellent sound and one of the reasons I chose it. One of the best TVs I've auditioned for sound quality in 2018.
Tarun, as far as TV listening, I use its Toslink output into my True-Blue Box Cobalt DA integrated amp, where it's up converted to 24 bit 192K and stays there until the class D output conversion. The Audiolab 7000A swamps the DA's single line level analog input, but it's all I really need. As per usual, your review of the 7000A was excellent and fully encompassing ~ Many thanks indeed :)
I like the multiple optical and coaxial inputs, also the pre-power loop can be used to add processors/tone controls if desired. I wonder how it compares to the latest Rega Elex. I preferred the Brio to the 6000A purely on sound (the 6000A seems to focus your attention on the HiFi sound, where’s the Brio just made me enjoy the music more.
The Elex MK4 seemed less Brio-like to me. I like the build, the form factor, and the sound, but I think I preferred the 'weight' of the Brio sound and was hoping the Elex would maintain that, with more wattage and more refinement up top. I've heard the outgoing Elex-R was more of the Brio-inspired sound so I may need to give one a listen.
Good review. I listened to the 7000a a week or so ago through Martin Logan Motion F20 speakers and was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable the sound was. Not spectacular but at the same time not boring or unpleasant. In comparison I found the Yamaha A-S2200 in the same setup a bit too forward / aggressive in the mid-range and the Arcam SA-30 a bit too laid-back sounding.
Been using the 7000a over 2 months, I upgraded from 6000a and I use Wharfedale Lintons. The amp is exactly what you have defined it to be, but I am shocked how you compared the dac to the Denafrips. I owned the ares which I used with 6000a and when I sold my ares I did miss it after moving to 6000a's internal dac. But the dac in 7000a is brilliant. Awesome review as usual, glad 7000a gets a 👍 from you
Thank you Amrut. The internal DAC is perfectly suited to the 7000A. The amp section is also very good but can’t create a 3D space to the extent to take full advantage of the Venus II 😊
Don't worry Amrut. Mr T likes amps and DACs which add distortion. It's why recording studios use RME DACs and not R2R DACs such as the Aries II. I've never heard of a recording studio using Exposure amps either but I do know some use Audiolab amps. It's a pity that Audiolab seem to have discontinued their seperate power amps.
Hi. I am playing my Lintons through the Audiolab Omni and whilst it is pleasant, I am thinking of upgrading the amp. Do you feel that the 7000a is a big step up form the 6000a? I am also thinking of auditioning the Leak 230, Exposure 2510 and Rega Elex Mk 4. Did you try any of these before opting for the 7000a? I'd appreciate any comments . Thank you
Cheers for the review. I bought the 7000A as soon as I could order one, I was confident it would hit the sweetspot for me incl hdmi. Paired with Bluesound node streamer and Monitor Audio Silver 300 speakers. I am super pleased albeit any metalheads or rockn rollers may want to stay clear of that particular combo.
@hifivideogamemusic7207 the combination is on the slightly brighter and analytical side. Listening fatigue is a risk. But is the combination. Pair the 7000A carefully with other components ( mainly the speakers in my case) and it may be just fine for you 🌝
I also have 2 channel HiFi setups for my TVs. In my family room, I have a Hegel H190 connected to Buchardt S400 Mk 2 standmounts and a stereo pair of REL T7x subs. This is an area for listening as well as TV, gaming and movie watching. I connect the TV via optical Toslink and I connect the sources to the TV via HDMI. My bedroom TV is connected to a BlueSound POWERNODE via HDMI ARC and this is driving Monitor Audio Silver 100 7G LE standmounts and an SVS Micro 3000 sub. The family room system sounds better and has much better seating options, but I do love the convenience of the POWERNODE in terms of connectivity and functionality. Cheers!
HDMI arc is a great feature to have on a two channel amp. This is how I listen to TV. I've used a Yamaha AV amp in two channel mode and a Rega Brio, with a DAC for TV listening. The Yamaha was great for extra features but Rega gave a much better sound balance. Not really surprising I suppose.
I love seeing everything under the cover of the stuff you review. With regards to using two-channel amplifiers for enhancing TV sound, I'd love to see amplifiers have dedicated controls for additional subwoofers. By that I mean pre-outs for subs and High-Pass filters for the main speakers.
I have always been fond on the audiolab amplifiers especially with there excellent build quality, HDMI should come as standard on all amplifiers that are designed to be used with a tv these days in my opinion, i wish my Hegel H190 one! I would be interested to see how the 9000a compares to this amplifier and others in its price range.
First and foremost I really enjoy your reviews, serious, complete and with the grain of salt needed for this adictive hobby. (and your very british accent too!!!) Tarun. I would like to ask you and important suggestion -of course without any perssonal compromise! I am going to buy Wharfedale Linton's, almost sure Audiolab 7000 CDT. Though I really hesitate between 2 integrated amps.: Audiolab 7000A or Rega Elex mk4 soundwise (not features) I look further your comment and I really appreciate. Best regards, Osvaldo from Argentina. P.S.: (Actually I will cross to Chile to buy, its is 40% the price!).
@@kenw1295 I had The 6000A, good, I do not think the 7000a surpass the Rega sound wise, I already have the Rega, itwas an upgrade from 6000A. I have 4 set ups at home, and Audiolab 7000A at 1KUSD seems a good deal.
Hi Tarun, you have become one of my favourite and trusted HiFi reviewers and happy to have a Coffee while watching your great review this morning, I have a 6000a paired with my Klipsch Cornwall 4s, seems to be a great pairing and love the sound, I also have a Yamaha AS-2200 that I'm using for AV bypass in another room at the moment, it's a better amp than the 6000A obviously however the Cornwalls aren't fussed and the 6000A is more than enough with them, I'm sure the 7000A is a step up again and would love to sample one, when they say how efficient and how you can save on the Amplifier when you lash out and buy speakers like the Cornwalls they ain't wrong, fantastic speakers
When I bought my Lg oled tv my dealer said to try out a soundplate from Crambridge Audio. In spite of having only optical and hdmi(not Arc), it never left it’s place. For about 340 euros it’s sounding very powerful and clear good for conversation and music but sometimes a little bite harsh in the treble. I feel no need to upgrade. Greetings, Ludo Belgium
Tarun, yours is probably the only audio-related channel where a majority of the comments are about the (excellence of the) reviewer and not the review. Keep it up. But please don’t create an itch - I’m just beginning to believe that I’m finally at peace with my set-up.
Great review once again. I owned the last generation pioneer kuro which required separate speakers . So I had the tv hooked up to my B&w 805S nautilus speakers via a meridian amp . I found the voices to be a bit muffled and wasn’t a fan . I then moved to a full meridian DSP active speaker set up and the scale of the audio was incredible . When we bought the Panasonic oled tv we relied upon the sound bar which was adequate ( we don’t watch much tv these days ). However I have just taken delivery of my new dCS Rossini Player Apex and I am tempted to hook it up to the tv just to hear the performance !
I enjoyed your review, Tarun. I agree with you on TV speaker sound - so I am using the sound with my 2 channel HiFi in a ‘tailored’ way: my AppleTV is connected via HDMI to a Marantz AV pre amplifier. Front left and right go via XLR cables to the Denafrips Athena pre amplifier. Then using a now antique 3 way Yamaha surround integrated amp for rear speakers and sub, connected via RCA cables to the Marantz pre. I am glad you asked:-)
Excellent review Tarun!! My Audreal XA6950 won't be going anywhere soon but I really like the Audiolab brand and I think they offer very very good value for money!. My issue with solid state is that the sound the amplifier makes is the sound the amplifier makes.......full stop!! So it can never accommodate my mood! This is where a hybrid amp really comes into its own! Being able to switch the tubes on the pre-amp stage means I can change my amp from warm to analytical, just by switching the tubes!! Solid state can't offer this option and because of that i'm out!! ;)
Hi Tarun, I find it helpful when you provide the detailed tour and commentary inside the review components. As for HDMI ARC, I don't really care about it. I take the optical output from the TV and feed it into a DAC (Paradigm Link Room Correction Module). Once on, I control the volume from the Rotel remote. On the topic of value for money, I find that the mid-priced amps are an exceptional value. Your pal Ian Whilte is very big on the Rotel Mk2 A11, A12, and A14 and I have to agree. As I already owned an iFi Signature DAC, so I opted for the A11 Tribute. I think the new Yamaha R-N800A (around $1200 US) is going to provide great value for money as it incorporates streaming and room correction. In my younger days, I spent a considerable amount of time in high-end audio salons and can appreciate why you spend a good deal of time looking at components that extract the last ounce of fidelity from a recording. It's amazing to hear a system that sounds so good you'd swear it was live music. That being said, I don't have the interest to sit and listen to music with that degree of concentration today. I routinely spend money with another great UK company, Hardy. They make some of the best fly rods money can buy, and given the choice between intently focusing on music or focusing on a large rainbow trout, the trout will win every time. 🙂
Yamaha R-N800A is great value and a sweet spot if you don't want/need hdmi connection. If people want/need hdmi then Yamaha R-N1000A has it all. The hdmi connection is seemingly the only difference between the two, although Yamaha says the R-N1000A has a strengthened case floor and some upgraded components but doesn't say what components.
BTW, I look forward to your review of those Monitor Audios I see in the background. I also appreciate your reviews, which do so well at distinguishing the basic sound character of different speakers and components from each other.
I have used my Meridian 101b and M1 speakers with televisions since 1980. Most of my watching has been from recorded contents, on tape and then from the computer. In 2009 I experimented with three pairs of JR149 speakers, a B&W PV1 and a Meridian G55 feed by a USB external 6 channel sound card. I sold the JR149 and G55 to replace them Meridian D600 and M60C centre. Three way floor standing speakers are overkill as rear channel speakers but are full range as stereo speaker when the main speakers needed servicing. I now use an HDMI debedder to eight channel analogue output. Currently I am testing WiSA with B&O Beolab 28 and Beolab 17 still needing centre channel and sub-woofer. I am yet to determine if this direction and choice makes any sense or not. Using stereo hi-fi for television and other video sources really brings out the sound quality the engineers put into the programme or film. Downmixing a 6 channel to stereo often is less full and engaging. Some video source supply a 6channel and a 2 channel tracks. These are usually much better than I can get in downmixing. The hardware may allow stereo audio tracks to be distributed to 6 speakers. I have never been comfortable with the result. HDMI inputs to amps, powered and active speakers work very well - no latency issues (lip sycn). These do not upscale to 5.1 or 7.1 full surround home theatre system. There are ways of doing so - analogue active, AV receiver with passive or active speakers and using WiSA with a multichannel hub.
Another good video. I connect my TV via optical to the internal DAC in my Cambridge AXR100. Works very satisfactorily. I use the internal DAC because my external DAC does not have a remote to switch inputs so it is less convenient.
HDMI is not that big of a deal for me. Maybe some tvs don’t do this but I can send the sound out via an optical cable. If it doesn’t add much expense to manufacturing it makes sense to me but HDMI is pretty easy for me to do without. Thanks for another great review
I really like your expertise and balanced presentation. As far as TV goes: not my top tier system, but a good processor and 3.2 speakers all from emotiva. Surprisingly combined with small relatively cheap but good enough class D amplifiers. One stereo amp goes the the bi amped center speaker. One amp goes to the left and right channel. This one is easily overrun by the Bluetooth connection to stream music apart from the tv directly from any phone in the house, also using the same 2 small subs. Sounds great.
I have the Audiolab 6000a, which I use in pre-amp mode,paired with an 8000p. I use this system with my Cambridge Audio CXN V2 for streaming and my TV is connected via optical cable. Really enjoyed your review, the connectivity of the 7000a sounds very good and I love the versatility of the Audiolab amps in this regard.
I still have an 8000s in a box from 25 years ago! Tv sound is a massive but quite old onkyo receiver and the old kef reference 4.2, 2s and the centre channel speaker. Does the job. Hifi is old too. Theta front end, krell amps and revel speakers.
Looks like a great piece of kit at a reasonable price for me on a fixed income, with the ability to expand into a power amp system. Thank you for this introduction and great review. Your voice sounds a little raspy to me today, but that may just be my phone. I hope you're not ailing, and if you are, I wish you a full and speedy recovery, Sir. All the best. p.s. My TV is routed through my Marantz AV8801 and Rotel RB-976 power amp, with some EQ through a Technics SH-8046, to match my hearing loss.
I am a 50/50 listener to stereo LFE and A/V so for me it matters. The Marantz 8015 has two set programs that will switch upon input to my Audyssey/manual adjust 2 channel and a full 7.2.4 Dolby ATMOS. I did have to bite the bullet on all the connecting wires as any big system is not cheap when insisting on using bi-wiring cables with twisted strand insulated and shielded power cables.
Excellent review -- much enjoyed! The stand-out statement for me was how the Denafrips Venus II DAC, at a touch over £3000, was only slightly better than the Audiolab's internal DAC, and so you advised sticking with the latter. Astounding - for 1/3 the price of the Venus II, you can get respectable, versatile and feature-rich amplification thrown in. I started off my audio revival after many years' lapse in 2019, and the first new thing I bought was a Sony DN1080 AV receiver. I had been hoping that would be enough for both TV and audio, but soon found out it wasn't, hence leading to my purchase of an Audiolab 6000A. Since then, the 6000A has been moved into my study where it serves nearfield duty for both music and TV. Since I can easily reach the buttons, I hardly ever use the amp's remote control. I still have the The DN1080 for listening to big-screen TV in the lounge, but you know what? I hardly ever watch it because I nearly always listen to just music there on my completely separate hi-fi set-up. So discussions about HDMI sockets and TV remote control of amplifier volume doesn't really affect me and isn't something I'd personally focus on. Of course, that's just me. No disrespect intended for people who are more into TV sound than I am.
Thanks for the interesting review. I agree that the standard sound from flatscreen TV’s is horrible so I hooked the TV up to a SONOS Arc, sub and 1’s as rear channels. I used that setup to listen to music too, until a friend got me back in a 2 speaker stereo setup. So now I have surround for the TV and a completely separate 2-channel setup.
Another great review Tarun!As you are an Audiolab's fan,it's time to review some speakers from sister brand Quad!!!! They have to be a great sinergy combo!Cheers
Thanks Tarun, If I'm lazy I shamefully listen to my TV speakers, if there's a movie or show with good music or even good background music I do flip on the class D amps with the tube preamp all driving Dynaudio Heritage Specials and a sub. I have the AudioLab 6000CD deck, it's a nice deck but the remote has times when it doesn't work up to snuff.
For me in a TV sound is important to understand the dialog. The unnecessarily loud movie music, rumble, sound effects should be a background sound information. Therefore the center channel information here is crucial. I use the cheapest receiver with eARC I could find that has R+L pre-outs and center channel. Receiver Marantz NR1510. This receiver is weak to be used for 3 my speakers R+C+L and I use it only to power the center channel. The R+L are power by EDGE A2-300 from the pre-outs. For music I use the receiver only as a preamp. Analog input from a decent DAC SMSL DO300, fed by dedicated streamer Allo USBridge, to receiver, to power amp to 2-channel listening. For TV and casual music listening they sound great.
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Will get a 7000A tomorrow, connect it trough HDMI, hoping for an improvement! Other then the SVS it will drive two Yamaha NS-555s.
I currently own a Cambridge AXR100. A terrific amp (and I use the radio section almost daily), but the sound is a bit laid back (I have PSB Imagine X2T speakers). I'm looking to upgrade my hifi to what I hope will be the next level and the Audiolab 7000a is on my shortlist, as well as B&W 607S3 stand mount speakers). Thank you for your reasoned and detailed review.
Thank you very much and going back to your question about TV connection - I use Teac 301A amp and Monitor Audio Silver 100 7G, otherwise I would not be able to watch neither Stage+, nor Mezzo TV…😎 Kind regards from Warsaw! Piotr
My wife absolutely detests/despises my 2 channel hifi. It’s a purest set up, but I do have a toslink connection between the tv and my dac. On the rare occasion that we sit down together to enjoy a film, she rebukes me if I try to turn the hifi on to enhance the audio performance. So an HDMI connection would be redundant in my set up. When I updated the tv recently, I chose the Panasonic TX65LZ2000 partly because of it’s integral Onkyo speaker set up. Whilst this is no substitute for augmentation from my 2 channel hifi, it’s far superior to that found on most modern flat screens and, she has no choice but to hear it whilst the tv is on, which it is 18 hours a day! I was surprised to hear you remark that your Venus dac only offers limited improvement over the internal dac of the Audiolab 7000a. I can only surmise that the combination of the 7000A and your chosen speakers were in sufficiently resolving as to extol the virtues of your Venus dac.
Thank you Howard. As good as the amplifier section of the 7000A is, it isn’t able to create the spacial landscape to take full advantage of the Venus II DAC 👍
QOTD: Upstairs we use a Bose solo sound bar with our TV. My wife likes simplicity and let’s face it, it is better than TV speakers. Downstairs I use a Toslink cable from the TV to my Cambridge CXNV2 into my CXA81 amp into my Polk 200’s. I use to have a cheap AVR but I’m more into two channel systems.
Great review (as usual). With regular TV programs I use the optical out from TV into my external DAC (Soekris dac1421) and then into my Pre/Amp (Nuprime AMG PRA/STA). When I play films from my NAS (with the VLC player) I use the HDMI into the TV and the sound via USB into the same DAC...
For my tv viewing I use a 4K HDMI matrix switch with COAX out > DAC > amp. Alternatively, I just send audio via Airplay which is also connected to my 4K HDMI matrix with coax out.
Thanks for this thoughtful and thorough review. On some reviews you comment on how good the amps are at different playing volumes. I’m guessing you don’t have this one anymore but do you recall if it is as decent at low and mid volumes as it is being blasted out loud? - or anyone here with one, your input is welcome. Thanks.
I have the Audiolab 9000 CD transport, super nice thick plate aluminum construction. The 9000 amp is $3000 in the states, probably won't be getting that anytime soon lol
Great insight as always Tarun. On a side note I can highly recommend Premium Sound. I tested three speakers there just before lockdown. They have a great setup and stock that surpasses the more well known high street options, both budget and much higher end. Great coffee too. The only negative for me is that they don’t stock Exposure or Neat, which are currently at the top of my audition list. Location is obviously a negative for many, though they were happy to offer a home demo. They even offered a discount on the Sonus Faber Lumina 2 I tried. I said I’d go back and try the Amphion Argon 1 so must book an appointment. Hopefully this new collaboration will allow you to test more brands that were previously not available to you. Perhaps you could build some systems at specific price points in a future video. Keep up the great work.
Hi tarun, another great review, I've never owned and audiolab equipment before, it always seems to get good reviews, it looks well built and sleek. Looking forward to another review soon.
Another honest appraisal. These new Audiolabs have passed me by. I was choked off by the older Audiolabs, which to my ears, sounded too glassy for my taste and partnering kit at the time: Arcam CD 73, Pro-ject Xpression 1 and Monitor Audio RS6. Not a fan of Audiolab before they were taken over by IAG. I watch and listen to TV & films powered by Leema Pulse. It's packed with features: Switchable phono stage, 5 line level inputs, outputs for either a power amp or for use with subwoofer. And sound quality is sublime, despite it being 15 years and I've owned for 13 years. For films I have a flagship Panasonic Bluray player connected via audio outs to the amp. For TV use (as the Leema is pure analogue) I have HDMI connected to a Sky HD box and RCAs from the Sky box to the amp. Either films or TV the Leema is more than the sum of its parts, and I don't own a subwoofer either. And the recent acquisition is a DacMagic 100 which I've not fully utilised yet.
Marantz Model 40n and I also hate the "tv sound". I use the HDMI connection on the back of Marantz. Before that I used the optical - toslink - connection between the television and the Marantz 7000N (yes, I love the marantz sound)
Love waking up on a Saturday morning and watching your latest review over a coffee! Regarding your comment about the 7000a and your Proacs, do you remember how the Hegel H95 amp combined with your proacs in comparison? Thank you
…adding further I agree with everything you say here Tarun, our ears are friends here. I think the Brio will be the better choice for my Monitor Audio Bronze 200 floorstanders. I think the other choices here apart from the Cambridge Audio AXA 35 may just be a little on the leaner, brighter sound for the MAB200s. The 7000a is out of personal budget presently. My 4 choices were the 6000a, Rega Brio, Cambridge Audio AXA35 and the SA3…
@@abritishaudiophile7314 I am not completely sold in the Brio as of yet though. It’s a shootout between the 6000A and the Brio for me. From what I have heard so far the Brio seems to be able to accommodate more genres better especially in the rock department. The 6000a is a little light and doesn’t convey the solidity as well with the heavier stuff but it’s still early days for my ears on choosing…thanks for taking the time to read my comments.
I’ve had the pleasure of owning both Audiolab and Rega equipment. They are both well designed, well built and high performing product lines. The Rega Elicit was the beating heart of my audio system for many years. I have upgraded my amplification, but I can’t part with that Rega amp. It is still on display in my rack, ready for action if the need arises. I don’t think you’ll have any purchase regrets with your Breo. Enjoy the music.
Thank you James. It is something I have done since the beginning as a courtesy. I also love the interaction but it is more of a challenge to keep on top of these days 😊
Thanks for another great review! Your comparisons give a clearer idea of where the particular unit stands, which is very helpful. Any idea of a comparative review on the CDT range in future?
Tarun, fantastic review all the way through! so informative and knowledgeable. i still have my audiolab 6000A (which i bought after your review) and like it a lot, but would love to go a step up in this never ending 'audiophile' (music lover, really) journey. it will not be the Audiolab 7000A (after watching your review) but perhaps the Exposure 2510 you have talked often about or the Yamaha A-S2200 you also highly praised. I also have a Cambridge CXA81 (which i like a lot for different reasons to the audiolab) in a second stereo setup....so.... i'm still wondering which way to go about replacing my beloved audiolab. regarding your TV question.... LOL... No tvs in this home! hate them!! cheers...
Thanks Tarun for this review. Looking forward for the comparison with Rotel A11 Tribute. As for the sound system for TV, I use JBL sound bar with HDMI arc placed just below the TV panel in the center so that I have the feeling that the sound is coming from the TV. Usually with visual it is hard to do critically listening and i don' t want to put my hifi in the TV audio chain.
Great video Tarun, as always! I have an Arcam SA30 connected to focal aria 926’s and my tv via eARC. Integrated streaming amp with hdmi and Dirac! Fantastic! Brings a much fuller range and intelligibility to sounds coming from your screen. More manufacturers should include this facility with their amps imo. I would even love a ‘ stereo hi-fi ‘ amp to maybe include just a centre channel input for film watching 🤷🏻♂️ This combo was put together mainly for music though….
Nice review. Yeah I have a media pc I made myself its all hooked up to the TV amp and speakers it all works very well with blu ray and so on. I like to balance the audio from the TV with my R3's for a blended sound that better fits with dialog. 😊
I’m all in on HDMI inputs for TV setups. Like you, I cannot stand internal tv speakers. In my main living room a Bluesound Node with an Emotiva A2 mini does the job nicely. Thanks for the review Tarun.
They just won't do it! If every series had TONE CONTROLS it would put these integrateds over the top. I think that they're afraid they wouldn't be able to keep up production if they did. A lot more of us would be ready to pull the trigger on one of these with TONE CONTROLS that's for sure. I ended up selling my lean sounding 6000A. I needed an amp with a bit of richness at least. It is too bad because I really liked the functionality and all. Thanks for the video Tarun. Excellent work as usual.
Hello Tarun. Thanks for your reply, but between the IN80 and the IN100, the latter should be superior, being more comparable with the 7000A, do you agree? By the way, I have an old pair of floor standing Acoustic Energy Aegis Evo3, in your opinion, which amplifier would you advise to pair? Thanks.
Great review. I like how the comparison with other amplifiers and how well it pairs with speakers. You have changed the picture behind you, haven’t you? :)
Woyyyyy..izzy is excited for this one tarun let me tell ya..going to enjoy this review as I own 6000a tarun ..just bought some pmc fb1 floor standers and oh my lord tarun what a combo. Good synergy .
I just bought an Audiolab DC Block 6 and can highly recommend it. The improvement in sound over my Audioquest Niagra 1200 is remarkable for it's price.
Hi taran , another great and interesting video, I use Denon AVR F100 system using with energy take 1 5.1 surround with Xl -s8 100w sub, This set up was best what hifi surround system a few years ago . Regards mark
Nice review! I too hate the sound of TV and their lousy speakers. I've always had a media PC hooked up to the TV and use the stereo for sound. I'm ready to move over to a fanless NUC style PC to lower the noise floor and ditch the ugly tower. I was enamored with surround sound w/ Emotiva U/XMC-1 processors but recently moved to a used Audible Illusions L3A.Absolutely koving that tube 2-chan upgrade + theater bypass so I can engage the Emotiva when watching your lovely content. (CSS-2td-x, Rogue Medusa, iFi-Neo, Wiim-Pro, Iyiama A07's for center/surround)
Its always a joy to listen to your reviews. Recently I bought the Audiolab 6000CDT. I connect it with my Quad Vena II. In the future I would like to replace my Missions 753 with the KEF R3 Meta. For these speakers I need more power. I was thinking to replace my Amp for the Audiolab 7000A or add a the power amp Shiit Vidar II. Which option would you advice?
I have a pair of Andrew Jones Elacs (and know the sound of many other of his models), and it does not sound dark at all, not does it sound overly warm - and my reference is orchestras in several Symphony Halls, in two different continents. And my amplifier is considered more of warm solid state than not...
Thank you for the review. Here in Turkey, 7000a is £1255 and an open box Cambridge CXA81 I found is £1360 at the moment (it actually retails for £1640). Which one would you prefer? I haven’t got speakers yet and I will listen FLAC from my laptop. It is only the sound which matters to me. I just want to enjoy the music.
Thanks for another informative review. I have 2 separate setups. Owned the 6000a liked it but needed more. Purchsed the Willsenton r8 with Wharfedale Lintons and a Bluesound node 2i and Chord mojo 2 Dac. For T V not as serious a Denon 1613 receiver HDMI with a pair of Klipsch RF - 15 towers Wife hates it I have to listen when she is out lol Just rewatched the last Jurassic Park movie shook the house!!
Hi Tarun, my latest TV is also a panel speaker so the sound is the best I’ve heard since flat screen TVs came out. So for normal listening it’s acceptable. For movie night I send it through my big floorstanders via the MF amp. Then it’s room shaking tastic 😂.
Hello sir, Keep going on strong. You have a professional but easygoing explaining. I wondering if the new Denon avr's like the 3800/4800 from 2022/23 are strong enough to keep up this ADL 7000A? Still enjoying the sound but can't compare it....
Thank you. Much appreciated. I am not familiar with the sound of the Denon 3800 or 4800 AVRs. However, I would expect a dedicated 2 channel amplifier like the Audiolab 7000A to sound better 😊
@@johnstanton8308 You appear to be correct John. It looks like a very thin tray. I first looked at a black version and mistook the tray for a slot. All to the good. I couldn't find a description of the loading method but a tray it appear to be.
Hi, nice review. I find your videos very peaceful to watch. I am looking for an upgrade from my rotel a11 amplifier, currently using monitor audio silver 50 speakers. I really like the hdmi and usb input of the 7000a. Do you think they will make a good pair with each other for some pop and classical music as well as tv shows? Cheers.
I bought the 7000a have it paired with my Wharfedale Evo 4.4 WiiM Pro and Yamaha CDS2000 works really well with an amazing soundstage almost like surround sound with just 2 speakers.
Strongly recommend.
Cool 😎 thank you for sharing 😊
I recommend actually just using a raspberry pi 3a+ into the usb of the 7000a. It will sound better than the wiim but you need to be comfortable with setting it up and restarting it when it crashes every so often. Worth it though… you can play native dsd on it if you use Volumio.
I truly enjoy your reviews, the best out there. You cover everything with great detail. Another job well done.
Thank you Jamie. Much appreciated 😊👍
I use an System Audio (5.1) WISA setup for TV. No receiver, no wires. Top quality. I have a Klipsh WISA sub taking up the rear. Never looked back. The future.
Cool 😎
For the majority of my TV viewing I use a Bose soundbar. It is a significant improvement on the internal speaker, and has an extremely good user friendly remote control which can be programmed to control the TV at the same time. It is quite good enough for my ageing hearing to understand the TV sound.
When watching high quality music programs then I unplug the optical input into the Bose and plug in the input into my Auralic DAC. It's more hassle since everything is not controlled from the same remote, but obviously for worthwhile music it is a significant improvement.
Thank you John 😊
After watching Jay's Audio Lab's reports from the Munich Show, it's refreshing to rejoin the real world with your latest review. I just don't believe I'll ever have half a million quid to spend on a pair of monoblocs to drive my quarter million $ speakers. A big reason I started watching ABA is your reviews of more affordable products.
For me, TV is just TV. Not great sound, but it just doesn't matter to me. I know that many others feel differently, and I completely respect their opinion.
Thank you Gerald. Much appreciated 😊👍
I very much like this style of review. Setting context and audio signatures of equipment is very helpful as well as when you recommend systems and suggest system synergy. Really brilliant method of review!
Thank you Patrick. Much appreciated 😊👍
This informative video leads me to one definite conclusion.
The Cambridge Audio AXA35 integrated amplifier is a stonker at £350.
Plenty of analogue inputs, a phono stage, bass and treble controls, headphone jack.
Not a sophisticated amplifier with built in dac or digital inputs, but for general use and the enjoyment of music, it has all you need, and as Tarun indicated, capable of a very creditable performance on the warm side.
The AXA35 is amazing value for people who don’t want or need and integrated DAC 😊
Thanks for another great review - one that I’ve been eager to see. After the popularity of the 6000A I was surprised that more reviewers didn’t pounce upon the 7000A immediately after its release. Encouraging to hear about the sonic performance credentials this offers alongside the new features such as HDMI. For me, on paper at least, this seems to hit a sweet spot of providing good Class A/B amplification and connectivity without going the whole hog of integrating streaming. It seems to allow more flexibility and a better platform for upgrading, particularly given the pre-amp mode option.
Thank you Tim. Good points 👍
I'm a big fan of Audiolab the purchase of the 6000a was one of my better choices . I got the chance to listen to 7000a and 9000a both very good, the 9000 is something else . My heart was won by neither, the 8300a took my hand and led me too the cash desk . Hopefully Tarun will get to review this made for me Amplifier .
Tarun your spot on with this review .
Just out of interest what made you choose the 8300a over the 9000a?
Thank you Shauny 👍
@@hclandscapes Its neutrality is something else at this price point . The bass mids highs are reliant on the source, I have not found this in any amp, at this price point . Flick of a switch the pre amp section is excellent . But it's more than enough as is .If you get the chance, demo the 8300a .
@@hclandscapes He probably got it cheap, 8300a was released 7-8 years ago, no DAC and Peter Tyson was flogging them recently for about £550 or so as they are new old stock.
8300a is a great amplifier. I combined it with the RME ADI 2 DAC since I wanted to get the parametric EQ for tone control. Using separate devices for the analog and the digital parts of the chain makes perfect sense to me.
Thanks for the detailed review. I enjoyed watching it.
I noticed you pointed out that you need to wait a while for the 7000A display to exit out of the menu. There is a quicker way if you have not got the remote handy though. You can press and hold the "Mode" rotary/button for two seconds, and this enables you to quickly go back up a level in the menu, or exit out of it.
Thank you 😊
Nice review. Your videos are always clear and concise, easy to follow and cover the main points needed for consideration in the purchase of the kit under review. Well done. Keep up the good work !😀
Thank you kind,y Roy 😊👍
Thanks again for your thorough review. In answer to your question, I have a Marantz SR 5006 AVR connected to a Monitor Audio Radius One passive sound bar and a Totem Storm sub. I like the sound I get overall - it replicates a 3.1 system very well, though perhaps not the same as true surround speakers in a 5.1 or greater configuration. I've always wanted to keep my television system separate from my stereo. As a side note, due to the way my cable subscription works, I have to watch some programs through the internet and the TV speakers. I have to say, my Sony XBR65X850E has unusually excellent sound and one of the reasons I chose it. One of the best TVs I've auditioned for sound quality in 2018.
Thank you 😊
Tarun, as far as TV listening, I use its Toslink output into my True-Blue Box Cobalt DA integrated amp, where it's up converted to 24 bit 192K and stays there until the class D output conversion. The Audiolab 7000A swamps the DA's single line level analog input, but it's all I really need.
As per usual, your review of the 7000A was excellent and fully encompassing ~ Many thanks indeed :)
Thank you. Much appreciated Bradley 😊👍
I like the multiple optical and coaxial inputs, also the pre-power loop can be used to add processors/tone controls if desired.
I wonder how it compares to the latest Rega Elex. I preferred the Brio to the 6000A purely on sound (the 6000A seems to focus your attention on the HiFi sound, where’s the Brio just made me enjoy the music more.
Thank you for sharing 😊
The Elex MK4 seemed less Brio-like to me. I like the build, the form factor, and the sound, but I think I preferred the 'weight' of the Brio sound and was hoping the Elex would maintain that, with more wattage and more refinement up top.
I've heard the outgoing Elex-R was more of the Brio-inspired sound so I may need to give one a listen.
Good review. I listened to the 7000a a week or so ago through Martin Logan Motion F20 speakers and was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable the sound was. Not spectacular but at the same time not boring or unpleasant. In comparison I found the Yamaha A-S2200 in the same setup a bit too forward / aggressive in the mid-range and the Arcam SA-30 a bit too laid-back sounding.
@@tdunster2011 thx for sharing 😊
Been using the 7000a over 2 months, I upgraded from 6000a and I use Wharfedale Lintons.
The amp is exactly what you have defined it to be, but I am shocked how you compared the dac to the Denafrips. I owned the ares which I used with 6000a and when I sold my ares I did miss it after moving to 6000a's internal dac.
But the dac in 7000a is brilliant.
Awesome review as usual, glad 7000a gets a 👍 from you
Thank you Amrut. The internal DAC is perfectly suited to the 7000A. The amp section is also very good but can’t create a 3D space to the extent to take full advantage of the Venus II 😊
Don't worry Amrut. Mr T likes amps and DACs which add distortion. It's why recording studios use RME DACs and not R2R DACs such as the Aries II. I've never heard of a recording studio using Exposure amps either but I do know some use Audiolab amps. It's a pity that Audiolab seem to have discontinued their seperate power amps.
Hi. I am playing my Lintons through the Audiolab Omni and whilst it is pleasant, I am thinking of upgrading the amp. Do you feel that the 7000a is a big step up form the 6000a? I am also thinking of auditioning the Leak 230, Exposure 2510 and Rega Elex Mk 4. Did you try any of these before opting for the 7000a? I'd appreciate any comments . Thank you
@@stephenmiller501 I have the same doubt for the Linton's: Audiolab 7000A or Rega Elex Mk4. Have you had the opportunity to test them already?
No I haven’t auditioned any of them yet
Cheers for the review. I bought the 7000A as soon as I could order one, I was confident it would hit the sweetspot for me incl hdmi. Paired with Bluesound node streamer and Monitor Audio Silver 300 speakers. I am super pleased albeit any metalheads or rockn rollers may want to stay clear of that particular combo.
Thank you for sharing 🙂
@hifivideogamemusic7207 the combination is on the slightly brighter and analytical side. Listening fatigue is a risk. But is the combination. Pair the 7000A carefully with other components ( mainly the speakers in my case) and it may be just fine for you 🌝
I also have 2 channel HiFi setups for my TVs. In my family room, I have a Hegel H190 connected to Buchardt S400 Mk 2 standmounts and a stereo pair of REL T7x subs. This is an area for listening as well as TV, gaming and movie watching. I connect the TV via optical Toslink and I connect the sources to the TV via HDMI. My bedroom TV is connected to a BlueSound POWERNODE via HDMI ARC and this is driving Monitor Audio Silver 100 7G LE standmounts and an SVS Micro 3000 sub. The family room system sounds better and has much better seating options, but I do love the convenience of the POWERNODE in terms of connectivity and functionality. Cheers!
Thank you Joel. Nicely balanced systems 👍
HDMI arc is a great feature to have on a two channel amp. This is how I listen to TV. I've used a Yamaha AV amp in two channel mode and a Rega Brio, with a DAC for TV listening. The Yamaha was great for extra features but Rega gave a much better sound balance. Not really surprising I suppose.
Thank you 👍
I love seeing everything under the cover of the stuff you review.
With regards to using two-channel amplifiers for enhancing TV sound, I'd love to see amplifiers have dedicated controls for additional subwoofers. By that I mean pre-outs for subs and High-Pass filters for the main speakers.
Thank you Rashad 😊
I have always been fond on the audiolab amplifiers especially with there excellent build quality, HDMI should come as standard on all amplifiers that are designed to be used with a tv these days in my opinion, i wish my Hegel H190 one! I would be interested to see how the 9000a compares to this amplifier and others in its price range.
Thank you 😊
First and foremost I really enjoy your reviews, serious, complete and with the grain of salt needed for this adictive hobby. (and your very british accent too!!!) Tarun. I would like to ask you and important suggestion -of course without any perssonal compromise! I am going to buy Wharfedale Linton's, almost sure Audiolab 7000 CDT. Though I really hesitate between 2 integrated amps.: Audiolab 7000A or Rega Elex mk4 soundwise (not features) I look further your comment and I really appreciate. Best regards, Osvaldo from Argentina. P.S.: (Actually I will cross to Chile to buy, its is 40% the price!).
Thank you. The 7000A has great synergy with the Linton’s. I haven’t tried the Elex-R 😊
They are the two on my list. The 7000a is slight ahead simply because of the extra features. Which way did you jump ?
@@kenw1295 I had The 6000A, good, I do not think the 7000a surpass the Rega sound wise, I already have the Rega, itwas an upgrade from 6000A. I have 4 set ups at home, and Audiolab 7000A at 1KUSD seems a good deal.
I bought 6000a after your recommendation and loving it specially with Chord mojo and external phono stage ( Rega & IFI )
That is great 😊👍
Great review! I especially like you compared 7000A with amps the most people will likely look as possible choice. Thanks!
Thank you 😊
Hi Tarun, you have become one of my favourite and trusted HiFi reviewers and happy to have a Coffee while watching your great review this morning, I have a 6000a paired with my Klipsch Cornwall 4s, seems to be a great pairing and love the sound, I also have a Yamaha AS-2200 that I'm using for AV bypass in another room at the moment, it's a better amp than the 6000A obviously however the Cornwalls aren't fussed and the 6000A is more than enough with them, I'm sure the 7000A is a step up again and would love to sample one, when they say how efficient and how you can save on the Amplifier when you lash out and buy speakers like the Cornwalls they ain't wrong, fantastic speakers
Thank you Jim. Much appreciated. Good to know that the 6000A/Cornwall 4s are a good match 😊👍
When I bought my Lg oled tv my dealer said to try out a soundplate from Crambridge Audio. In spite of having only optical and hdmi(not Arc),
it never left it’s place. For about 340 euros it’s sounding very powerful and clear good for conversation and music but sometimes a little bite harsh in the treble. I feel no need to upgrade.
Greetings,
Ludo Belgium
Cool 😎
Thanks!
Thank you kindly 👍
Tarun, yours is probably the only audio-related channel where a majority of the comments are about the (excellence of the) reviewer and not the review. Keep it up. But please don’t create an itch - I’m just beginning to believe that I’m finally at peace with my set-up.
Thank you Jeremy. It would be wise to stick with what you have 😊👍
Great review once again. I owned the last generation pioneer kuro which required separate speakers . So I had the tv hooked up to my B&w 805S nautilus speakers via a meridian amp . I found the voices to be a bit muffled and wasn’t a fan . I then moved to a full meridian DSP active speaker set up and the scale of the audio was incredible . When we bought the Panasonic oled tv we relied upon the sound bar which was adequate ( we don’t watch much tv these days ). However I have just taken delivery of my new dCS Rossini Player Apex and I am tempted to hook it up to the tv just to hear the performance !
Thank you 👍
I enjoyed your review, Tarun. I agree with you on TV speaker sound - so I am using the sound with my 2 channel HiFi in a ‘tailored’ way: my AppleTV is connected via HDMI to a Marantz AV pre amplifier. Front left and right go via XLR cables to the Denafrips Athena pre amplifier. Then using a now antique 3 way Yamaha surround integrated amp for rear speakers and sub, connected via RCA cables to the Marantz pre. I am glad you asked:-)
Thank you Wouter 😊
Thank you Tarun, I always look forward to your reviews.
Thank you for watching 👍
Excellent review Tarun!! My Audreal XA6950 won't be going anywhere soon but I really like the Audiolab brand and I think they offer very very good value for money!. My issue with solid state is that the sound the amplifier makes is the sound the amplifier makes.......full stop!! So it can never accommodate my mood! This is where a hybrid amp really comes into its own! Being able to switch the tubes on the pre-amp stage means I can change my amp from warm to analytical, just by switching the tubes!! Solid state can't offer this option and because of that i'm out!! ;)
Thank you Chris 😊
Hi Tarun, I find it helpful when you provide the detailed tour and commentary inside the review components. As for HDMI ARC, I don't really care about it. I take the optical output from the TV and feed it into a DAC (Paradigm Link Room Correction Module). Once on, I control the volume from the Rotel remote. On the topic of value for money, I find that the mid-priced amps are an exceptional value. Your pal Ian Whilte is very big on the Rotel Mk2 A11, A12, and A14 and I have to agree. As I already owned an iFi Signature DAC, so I opted for the A11 Tribute. I think the new Yamaha R-N800A (around $1200 US) is going to provide great value for money as it incorporates streaming and room correction. In my younger days, I spent a considerable amount of time in high-end audio salons and can appreciate why you spend a good deal of time looking at components that extract the last ounce of fidelity from a recording. It's amazing to hear a system that sounds so good you'd swear it was live music. That being said, I don't have the interest to sit and listen to music with that degree of concentration today. I routinely spend money with another great UK company, Hardy. They make some of the best fly rods money can buy, and given the choice between intently focusing on music or focusing on a large rainbow trout, the trout will win every time. 🙂
Thank you Larry. Great to learn about your experiences with hifi and trout 👍
Yamaha R-N800A is great value and a sweet spot if you don't want/need hdmi connection. If people want/need hdmi then Yamaha R-N1000A has it all. The hdmi connection is seemingly the only difference between the two, although Yamaha says the R-N1000A has a strengthened case floor and some upgraded components but doesn't say what components.
thanks for info! can't wait for your review on the 9000A!
Thank you 😊
BTW, I look forward to your review of those Monitor Audios I see in the background. I also appreciate your reviews, which do so well at distinguishing the basic sound character of different speakers and components from each other.
Thank you kindly. MA review will be next 😊👍
I have used my Meridian 101b and M1 speakers with televisions since 1980. Most of my watching has been from recorded contents, on tape and then from the computer. In 2009 I experimented with three pairs of JR149 speakers, a B&W PV1 and a Meridian G55 feed by a USB external 6 channel sound card. I sold the JR149 and G55 to replace them Meridian D600 and M60C centre. Three way floor standing speakers are overkill as rear channel speakers but are full range as stereo speaker when the main speakers needed servicing. I now use an HDMI debedder to eight channel analogue output. Currently I am testing WiSA with B&O Beolab 28 and Beolab 17 still needing centre channel and sub-woofer. I am yet to determine if this direction and choice makes any sense or not.
Using stereo hi-fi for television and other video sources really brings out the sound quality the engineers put into the programme or film. Downmixing a 6 channel to stereo often is less full and engaging. Some video source supply a 6channel and a 2 channel tracks. These are usually much better than I can get in downmixing. The hardware may allow stereo audio tracks to be distributed to 6 speakers. I have never been comfortable with the result.
HDMI inputs to amps, powered and active speakers work very well - no latency issues (lip sycn). These do not upscale to 5.1 or 7.1 full surround home theatre system. There are ways of doing so - analogue active, AV receiver with passive or active speakers and using WiSA with a multichannel hub.
Interesting stuff. Thank you for sharing 😊
Another good video. I connect my TV via optical to the internal DAC in my Cambridge AXR100. Works very satisfactorily. I use the internal DAC because my external DAC does not have a remote to switch inputs so it is less convenient.
Thank you Ed 😊
This is another fantastic review, thanks for the details. Will you be reviewing the audiolap 9000A?
Thank you. Much appreciated. No plans as yet but I hope to get to it in time 😊👍
HDMI is not that big of a deal for me. Maybe some tvs don’t do this but I can send the sound out via an optical cable. If it doesn’t add much expense to manufacturing it makes sense to me but HDMI is pretty easy for me to do without. Thanks for another great review
Understood. Thank you 😊
I really like your expertise and balanced presentation. As far as TV goes: not my top tier system, but a good processor and 3.2 speakers all from emotiva. Surprisingly combined with small relatively cheap but good enough class D amplifiers. One stereo amp goes the the bi amped center speaker. One amp goes to the left and right channel. This one is easily overrun by the Bluetooth connection to stream music apart from the tv directly from any phone in the house, also using the same 2 small subs. Sounds great.
Thank you Bas 👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 my main amp: Audiolab 8300A
I have the Audiolab 6000a, which I use in pre-amp mode,paired with an 8000p. I use this system with my Cambridge Audio CXN V2 for streaming and my TV is connected via optical cable.
Really enjoyed your review, the connectivity of the 7000a sounds very good and I love the versatility of the Audiolab amps in this regard.
Thank you 👍
I still have an 8000s in a box from 25 years ago! Tv sound is a massive but quite old onkyo receiver and the old kef reference 4.2, 2s and the centre channel speaker. Does the job. Hifi is old too. Theta front end, krell amps and revel speakers.
Cool 😎
Looks like a great piece of kit at a reasonable price for me on a fixed income, with the ability to expand into a power amp system. Thank you for this introduction and great review. Your voice sounds a little raspy to me today, but that may just be my phone. I hope you're not ailing, and if you are, I wish you a full and speedy recovery, Sir. All the best. p.s. My TV is routed through my Marantz AV8801 and Rotel RB-976 power amp, with some EQ through a Technics SH-8046, to match my hearing loss.
Hi Simon, apart from a bit of hay fever, I am well. Thanks for asking 👍
I am a 50/50 listener to stereo LFE and A/V so for me it matters. The Marantz 8015 has two set programs that will switch upon input to my Audyssey/manual adjust 2 channel and a full 7.2.4 Dolby ATMOS. I did have to bite the bullet on all the connecting wires as any big system is not cheap when insisting on using bi-wiring cables with twisted strand insulated and shielded power cables.
Thank you 😊
Excellent review -- much enjoyed! The stand-out statement for me was how the Denafrips Venus II DAC, at a touch over £3000, was only slightly better than the Audiolab's internal DAC, and so you advised sticking with the latter. Astounding - for 1/3 the price of the Venus II, you can get respectable, versatile and feature-rich amplification thrown in.
I started off my audio revival after many years' lapse in 2019, and the first new thing I bought was a Sony DN1080 AV receiver. I had been hoping that would be enough for both TV and audio, but soon found out it wasn't, hence leading to my purchase of an Audiolab 6000A. Since then, the 6000A has been moved into my study where it serves nearfield duty for both music and TV. Since I can easily reach the buttons, I hardly ever use the amp's remote control.
I still have the The DN1080 for listening to big-screen TV in the lounge, but you know what? I hardly ever watch it because I nearly always listen to just music there on my completely separate hi-fi set-up. So discussions about HDMI sockets and TV remote control of amplifier volume doesn't really affect me and isn't something I'd personally focus on. Of course, that's just me. No disrespect intended for people who are more into TV sound than I am.
Thank you John. Great to learn about your experiences 👍
Thanks for the interesting review. I agree that the standard sound from flatscreen TV’s is horrible so I hooked the TV up to a SONOS Arc, sub and 1’s as rear channels. I used that setup to listen to music too, until a friend got me back in a 2 speaker stereo setup. So now I have surround for the TV and a completely separate 2-channel setup.
Cool 😎 thank you 😊
Another great review Tarun!As you are an Audiolab's fan,it's time to review some speakers from sister brand Quad!!!! They have to be a great sinergy combo!Cheers
Thank you. New range of Quad stuff is coming out soon 👍
Thanks Tarun,
If I'm lazy I shamefully listen to my TV speakers, if there's a movie or show with good music or even good background music I do flip on the class D amps with the tube preamp all driving Dynaudio Heritage Specials and a sub. I have the AudioLab 6000CD deck, it's a nice deck but the remote has times when it doesn't work up to snuff.
Thank you. Nice system 👍
For me in a TV sound is important to understand the dialog. The unnecessarily loud movie music, rumble, sound effects should be a background sound information.
Therefore the center channel information here is crucial. I use the cheapest receiver with eARC I could find that has R+L pre-outs and center channel. Receiver Marantz NR1510. This receiver is weak to be used for 3 my speakers R+C+L and I use it only to power the center channel. The R+L are power by EDGE A2-300 from the pre-outs.
For music I use the receiver only as a preamp. Analog input from a decent DAC SMSL DO300, fed by dedicated streamer Allo USBridge, to receiver, to power amp to 2-channel listening.
For TV and casual music listening they sound great.
Thank you for sharing 😊
I connect my LG 77 OLED through SPDIF to my Rotel RA-11 2.1 setup (with a SVS SB-1000), works great!
Cool 😎
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Will get a 7000A tomorrow, connect it trough HDMI, hoping for an improvement! Other then the SVS it will drive two Yamaha NS-555s.
I currently own a Cambridge AXR100. A terrific amp (and I use the radio section almost daily), but the sound is a bit laid back (I have PSB Imagine X2T speakers). I'm looking to upgrade my hifi to what I hope will be the next level and the Audiolab 7000a is on my shortlist, as well as B&W 607S3 stand mount speakers). Thank you for your reasoned and detailed review.
Thank you for sharing 😊
Nice kit Ive only really used British amps and rhese are nice.
Good presentational style
Thank you 😊
Thank you very much and going back to your question about TV connection - I use Teac 301A amp and Monitor Audio Silver 100 7G, otherwise I would not be able to watch neither Stage+, nor Mezzo TV…😎 Kind regards from Warsaw! Piotr
Thank you Piotr 👍
My wife absolutely detests/despises my 2 channel hifi. It’s a purest set up, but I do have a toslink connection between the tv and my dac. On the rare occasion that we sit down together to enjoy a film, she rebukes me if I try to turn the hifi on to enhance the audio performance. So an HDMI connection would be redundant in my set up. When I updated the tv recently, I chose the Panasonic TX65LZ2000 partly because of it’s integral Onkyo speaker set up. Whilst this is no substitute for augmentation from my 2 channel hifi, it’s far superior to that found on most modern flat screens and, she has no choice but to hear it whilst the tv is on, which it is 18 hours a day!
I was surprised to hear you remark that your Venus dac only offers limited improvement over the internal dac of the Audiolab 7000a. I can only surmise that the combination of the 7000A and your chosen speakers were in sufficiently resolving as to extol the virtues of your Venus dac.
Thank you Howard. As good as the amplifier section of the 7000A is, it isn’t able to create the spacial landscape to take full advantage of the Venus II DAC 👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Ah, right -- I get it now...
For TV and movie viewing I take the optical digital output from the TV straight into the optical input on my QA M20s.
Thank you 😊
QOTD: Upstairs we use a Bose solo sound bar with our TV. My wife likes simplicity and let’s face it, it is better than TV speakers.
Downstairs I use a Toslink cable from the TV to my Cambridge CXNV2 into my CXA81 amp into my Polk 200’s. I use to have a cheap AVR but I’m more into two channel systems.
Thank you 😊
Great review (as usual). With regular TV programs I use the optical out from TV into my external DAC (Soekris dac1421) and then into my Pre/Amp (Nuprime AMG PRA/STA). When I play films from my NAS (with the VLC player) I use the HDMI into the TV and the sound via USB into the same DAC...
Thank you. Very nice José 👍
For my tv viewing I use a 4K HDMI matrix switch with COAX out > DAC > amp. Alternatively, I just send audio via Airplay which is also connected to my 4K HDMI matrix with coax out.
Thank you 😊
Thanks for this thoughtful and thorough review. On some reviews you comment on how good the amps are at different playing volumes. I’m guessing you don’t have this one anymore but do you recall if it is as decent at low and mid volumes as it is being blasted out loud? - or anyone here with one, your input is welcome. Thanks.
@@aliali4747 yes, I do recall. It is very good at low volumes 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks for the reply, much appreciated :)
I have the Audiolab 9000 CD transport, super nice thick plate aluminum construction. The 9000 amp is $3000 in the states, probably won't be getting that anytime soon lol
Great insight as always Tarun.
On a side note I can highly recommend Premium Sound. I tested three speakers there just before lockdown. They have a great setup and stock that surpasses the more well known high street options, both budget and much higher end. Great coffee too. The only negative for me is that they don’t stock Exposure or Neat, which are currently at the top of my audition list. Location is obviously a negative for many, though they were happy to offer a home demo. They even offered a discount on the Sonus Faber Lumina 2 I tried. I said I’d go back and try the Amphion Argon 1 so must book an appointment.
Hopefully this new collaboration will allow you to test more brands that were previously not available to you. Perhaps you could build some systems at specific price points in a future video.
Keep up the great work.
What a plug …
Hi tarun, another great review, I've never owned and audiolab equipment before, it always seems to get good reviews, it looks well built and sleek. Looking forward to another review soon.
Thank you Paul 😊
15:39 : Good to know This is a suitable Amp for the Elac UBR62.
Cool 😎
Another honest appraisal.
These new Audiolabs have passed me by. I was choked off by the older Audiolabs, which to my ears, sounded too glassy for my taste and partnering kit at the time: Arcam CD 73, Pro-ject Xpression 1 and Monitor Audio RS6. Not a fan of Audiolab before they were taken over by IAG.
I watch and listen to TV & films powered by Leema Pulse. It's packed with features: Switchable phono stage, 5 line level inputs, outputs for either a power amp or for use with subwoofer. And sound quality is sublime, despite it being 15 years and I've owned for 13 years. For films I have a flagship Panasonic Bluray player connected via audio outs to the amp. For TV use (as the Leema is pure analogue) I have HDMI connected to a Sky HD box and RCAs from the Sky box to the amp. Either films or TV the Leema is more than the sum of its parts, and I don't own a subwoofer either.
And the recent acquisition is a DacMagic 100 which I've not fully utilised yet.
Thanks Richard. There is still some dryness to the Audiolab sound but not so glassy these days 😊
Marantz Model 40n and I also hate the "tv sound". I use the HDMI connection on the back of Marantz. Before that I used the optical - toslink - connection between the television and the Marantz 7000N (yes, I love the marantz sound)
Thank you 😊
Love waking up on a Saturday morning and watching your latest review over a coffee! Regarding your comment about the 7000a and your Proacs, do you remember how the Hegel H95 amp combined with your proacs in comparison? Thank you
Thank you. I hope you enjoyed the H95 struggled with my ProAcs too. Although, it did a little better than the 7000A 😊
Very good comparison of its peers for this price point.
Thank you Declan 👍
…adding further I agree with everything you say here Tarun, our ears are friends here. I think the Brio will be the better choice for my Monitor Audio Bronze 200 floorstanders. I think the other choices here apart from the Cambridge Audio AXA 35 may just be a little on the leaner, brighter sound for the MAB200s. The 7000a is out of personal budget presently. My 4 choices were the 6000a, Rega Brio, Cambridge Audio AXA35 and the SA3…
Thank you 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 I am not completely sold in the Brio as of yet though. It’s a shootout between the 6000A and the Brio for me. From what I have heard so far the Brio seems to be able to accommodate more genres better especially in the rock department. The 6000a is a little light and doesn’t convey the solidity as well with the heavier stuff but it’s still early days for my ears on choosing…thanks for taking the time to read my comments.
I’ve had the pleasure of owning both Audiolab and Rega equipment. They are both well designed, well built and high performing product lines. The Rega Elicit was the beating heart of my audio system for many years. I have upgraded my amplification, but I can’t part with that Rega amp. It is still on display in my rack, ready for action if the need arises.
I don’t think you’ll have any purchase regrets with your Breo.
Enjoy the music.
Incredible you replied each of one that's how you grow your channel. Well done 👍.
Thank you James. It is something I have done since the beginning as a courtesy. I also love the interaction but it is more of a challenge to keep on top of these days 😊
Thanks for another great review! Your comparisons give a clearer idea of where the particular unit stands, which is very helpful. Any idea of a comparative review on the CDT range in future?
Thank you. No plans to review the CDT as yet 👍
Great review! What else would you recommend I consider that also has arc please?
Thank you. NAD stuff 😊
Tarun, fantastic review all the way through! so informative and knowledgeable. i still have my audiolab 6000A (which i bought after your review) and like it a lot, but would love to go a step up in this never ending 'audiophile' (music lover, really) journey. it will not be the Audiolab 7000A (after watching your review) but perhaps the Exposure 2510 you have talked often about or the Yamaha A-S2200 you also highly praised. I also have a Cambridge CXA81 (which i like a lot for different reasons to the audiolab) in a second stereo setup....so.... i'm still wondering which way to go about replacing my beloved audiolab. regarding your TV question.... LOL... No tvs in this home! hate them!! cheers...
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Thanks Tarun for this review. Looking forward for the comparison with Rotel A11 Tribute. As for the sound system for TV, I use JBL sound bar with HDMI arc placed just below the TV panel in the center so that I have the feeling that the sound is coming from the TV. Usually with visual it is hard to do critically listening and i don' t want to put my hifi in the TV audio chain.
Thank you 😊
Always a great job better each time good work
Thank you kindly Carlos 😊
Great video Tarun, as always! I have an Arcam SA30 connected to focal aria 926’s and my tv via eARC. Integrated streaming amp with hdmi and Dirac! Fantastic! Brings a much fuller range and intelligibility to sounds coming from your screen. More manufacturers should include this facility with their amps imo. I would even love a ‘ stereo hi-fi ‘ amp to maybe include just a centre channel input for film watching 🤷🏻♂️
This combo was put together mainly for music though….
Thank you 😊
Nice review. Yeah I have a media pc I made myself its all hooked up to the TV amp and speakers it all works very well with blu ray and so on. I like to balance the audio from the TV with my R3's for a blended sound that better fits with dialog. 😊
Thank you 😊
I’m all in on HDMI inputs for TV setups. Like you, I cannot stand internal tv speakers. In my main living room a Bluesound Node with an Emotiva A2 mini does the job nicely. Thanks for the review Tarun.
Thank you Bryan 👍
They just won't do it! If every series had TONE CONTROLS it would put these integrateds over the top. I think that they're afraid they wouldn't be able to keep up production if they did. A lot more of us would be ready to pull the trigger on one of these with TONE CONTROLS that's for sure. I ended up selling my lean sounding 6000A. I needed an amp with a bit of richness at least. It is too bad because I really liked the functionality and all. Thanks for the video Tarun. Excellent work as usual.
Thank you 😊
Excellent review as always.
Thank you Chris 👍
Hello Tarun. Glad to see another review from you. I would like to know your opinion, comparing the 7000A with the Atoll IN100 Signature. Thanks.
Thank you. I have reviewed the IN80 Signature some time ago. The Atoll has a much fuller sound but I think the 7000A may be more detailed 😊
Hello Tarun. Thanks for your reply, but between the IN80 and the IN100, the latter should be superior, being more comparable with the 7000A, do you agree? By the way, I have an old pair of floor standing Acoustic Energy Aegis Evo3, in your opinion, which amplifier would you advise to pair? Thanks.
Great review. I like how the comparison with other amplifiers and how well it pairs with speakers.
You have changed the picture behind you, haven’t you? :)
Thank you. I thought I would try John Lee Hooker for a while 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 John Lee Hooker or Seasick Steve -- either one is fine with me. I always had you figured for a string quartet kinda guy.
@@rjonp1 I like string quartets too 👍
Triangle comete 40th with audiolab 6000a or 7000a what will your pick be?
Btw thanks for another great detailed review keep up 👌
Thank you. I think the 7000A if you can run to it 😊
Woyyyyy..izzy is excited for this one tarun let me tell ya..going to enjoy this review as I own 6000a tarun ..just bought some pmc fb1 floor standers and oh my lord tarun what a combo. Good synergy .
That is great Carl 👍
I just bought an Audiolab DC Block 6 and can highly recommend it. The improvement in sound over my Audioquest Niagra 1200 is remarkable for it's price.
Cool 😎
Kinda kicking myself now for buying the 6000A around 6 months ago, aside from the fact I'm very happy with my purchase considering what I paid.
It a great amp. I would still be very happy to own one 😊
Hi taran , another great and interesting video, I use Denon AVR F100 system using with energy take 1 5.1 surround with Xl -s8 100w sub, This set up was best what hifi surround system a few years ago . Regards mark
Thank you Mark 😊
Nice review! I too hate the sound of TV and their lousy speakers. I've always had a media PC hooked up to the TV and use the stereo for sound. I'm ready to move over to a fanless NUC style PC to lower the noise floor and ditch the ugly tower. I was enamored with surround sound w/ Emotiva U/XMC-1 processors but recently moved to a used Audible Illusions L3A.Absolutely koving that tube 2-chan upgrade + theater bypass so I can engage the Emotiva when watching your lovely content. (CSS-2td-x, Rogue Medusa, iFi-Neo, Wiim-Pro, Iyiama A07's for center/surround)
Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
Awesome stuff as usual.🙂
Looks like a tidy amplifier for the outlay.
Thank you 😊
Excellent review as usual 👌
Thank you kindly 😊👍
Its always a joy to listen to your reviews. Recently I bought the Audiolab 6000CDT. I connect it with my Quad Vena II. In the future I would like to replace my Missions 753 with the KEF R3 Meta. For these speakers I need more power. I was thinking to replace my Amp for the Audiolab 7000A or add a the power amp Shiit Vidar II. Which option would you advice?
Thank you Andre. The Schitt Vidar is reputed to work well with Kef speakers. I can say for the Audiolab 7000A without trying it 😊
I have a pair of Andrew Jones Elacs (and know the sound of many other of his models), and it does not sound dark at all, not does it sound overly warm - and my reference is orchestras in several Symphony Halls, in two different continents.
And my amplifier is considered more of warm solid state than not...
Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
Thank you for the review. Here in Turkey, 7000a is £1255 and an open box Cambridge CXA81 I found is £1360 at the moment (it actually retails for £1640). Which one would you prefer? I haven’t got speakers yet and I will listen FLAC from my laptop. It is only the sound which matters to me. I just want to enjoy the music.
Thank you. Two different types of sonic presentation. Let that guide you 😊
You and Darko are my favourite reviewer’s.
Thank you 👍
Another awesome review. ps are you feeling alright? i feel your usual energy was little dried down.
Thank you. My voice was a little croaky but I am fine. Just hay fever season 😢😊
Thanks for another informative review. I have 2 separate setups. Owned the 6000a liked it but needed more. Purchsed the Willsenton r8 with Wharfedale Lintons and a Bluesound node 2i and Chord mojo 2 Dac. For
T V not as serious a
Denon 1613 receiver HDMI with a pair of Klipsch RF - 15 towers
Wife hates it I have to
listen when she is out lol
Just rewatched the last
Jurassic Park movie shook the house!!
Thank you 👍
Hi Tarun, my latest TV is also a panel speaker so the sound is the best I’ve heard since flat screen TVs came out. So for normal listening it’s acceptable. For movie night I send it through my big floorstanders via the MF amp. Then it’s room shaking tastic 😂.
Cool 😎 thanks Mark 👍
THANKS AGAIN TARUN 🤗…sharing why it is the BEST TIME TO BE AN AUDIOPHILE…question for today …I prefer to use my stereo system 🤗💚💚💚
Thank you 😊
Hello sir,
Keep going on strong.
You have a professional but easygoing explaining.
I wondering if the new Denon avr's like the 3800/4800 from 2022/23 are strong enough to keep up this ADL 7000A?
Still enjoying the sound but can't compare it....
Thank you. Much appreciated. I am not familiar with the sound of the Denon 3800 or 4800 AVRs. However, I would expect a dedicated 2 channel amplifier like the Audiolab 7000A to sound better 😊
Tnx sir!
Lovely view. Thanks. I noticed the 7000 CDT has a slot drive. Shame.
Actually, unlike the 6000CDT, the 7000CDT is not a slot load, but rather a tray loading drive.
Thanks Jim 😊
@@johnstanton8308 You appear to be correct John. It looks like a very thin tray. I first looked at a black version and mistook the tray for a slot. All to the good. I couldn't find a description of the loading method but a tray it appear to be.
Hi, nice review. I find your videos very peaceful to watch. I am looking for an upgrade from my rotel a11 amplifier, currently using monitor audio silver 50 speakers. I really like the hdmi and usb input of the 7000a. Do you think they will make a good pair with each other for some pop and classical music as well as tv shows? Cheers.
Thank you. I like that pairing 😊