Get free life insurance quotes from America’s top insurers and start saving today with Policygenius: Policygenius.com/cheapaudioman. Thanks to Policygenius for sponsoring this video! Aiyima A07 Max bit.ly/3tnp2AM check out my other channel www.youtube.com/@cheapwatchman_official Intro graphics by johnvilardi.com Support the Channel! Shop on Amazon amzn.to/3W8vsgK Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Join the best hifi community out there! patreon.com/cheapaudioman TRY ROON www.rofjdjk3ns.com/33G977/2CTPL/ Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF Amazon Unlimited Music Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9 Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH amzn.to/3GkNaop CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P
I got a pair of these amps. With the sparkos op amps, the sound is incredible. Best little setup I could hope for. I paired them with the Aiyima T8 and am very satisfied. Thank you, Cheapaudioman, for the great videos reviewing cheap components.
OK maybe you can answer what everyone else who reviews two bridged A07 Max amps (one for each speaker) avoids. Done that and it works fine but how do I connect my single active subwoofer? The aux out on each amp is stereo so if I use only one of the aux outs (from left or right amp) I will get bass from only one channel and there will be bass on the other channel also that won't be sent to the sub. Most of the 3.5mm 2 male jacks to 1 female are for phones so one male is for the speaker and the other for the microphone so they don't work (I tried) and in any case I have read that using a simple splitter (2 male stereo to 1 female stereo) is not a good idea as at best it reduces the overall volume and may cause damage. My sub has speaker level inputs, which I would prefer to use, but when I connect the sub cable to the same bananas as the main speakers (8 ohm) , the amps don't work, why is that when the speaker level inputs on the sub are 1k ohm so that should make minimal difference to the total impedance and certainly not below 4 ohm which the amps are rated for? So my question is once I have the A07 max in mono mode and one is driving the left and the other the right speaker, how do I connect my single subwoofer (Wharfedale Powercube 10+ which has L and R RCA connectors and L and R speaker level connectors)? Oh by the way the sub is also used for my AVR and when I use a one RCA to two RCA adapter on the left sub RCA, with both A07 max and AVR connected the volume on that channel is very much reduced. I've already made a switching box so the main speakers can be used with either AVR (best for movies) or A07 Maxs (best for music). Previously I used a single Arcam Alpha 2 amp instead of the two A07 Maxs and had no problem at all, as the Arcam worked perfectly with cables also running to the sub speaker level inputs. Apart from the amps the set-up was the same and worked perfectly.
Love your attitude and your channel. I'm a 67 year old musician. Music is my thing. But I'm a bit of a geek also. Macs, Logic X Pro, etc. You get it! It's all-out the sound and what your very personal ears here. Some people don't have good ears and can't hear the difference. But some of us can and we listen closely. I have all old school audio equipment. Large Advents, Kenwood KA3500, Stanton Turntable and a great record & CD collection.
I have the original A07 and the Max, both bought at Randy's recommendation. The Max is housed in a much smaller case than the original. As a result when fed with a 48V power supply the Max runs much warmer than the original, despite the addition of side and bottom vents. Even with no input signal the Max gets quite hot when left on. I just wonder if this would affect its operational liability in the long run. The disappearance of the on/off toggle switch is also regrettable.
Laughed my ass off at the tool segment and disassembly. I used to make videos for a company doing electronic repairs on circuit boards, PCs and mobile phones and the tools were always different or proprietary and sometimes finding the right one was actually part of the video and repair processes I had to demo. Answer? Small powered screwdriver with multiple microbits. Just made me smile so thanks Randy. Also liked the amp. LOL
Here's a trick I learned from a guitar forum for getting knobs off. Take two spoons and place them on opposite sides of the knob, with the curved part down. Then gently push down with equal pressure on both sides and the knob should come off.
A pair of bamboo chopsticks works great too, very unlikely to cause scratches. I use the larger (tapered) ends and those can be whittled slightly thinner if need be to get behind the knob.
I got the AIYIMA 07 MAX over a month ago and put Sparkos opamps in it. It sounds beautiful as a stock amp but with Sparkos it’s on another level. Just doubles/triples the sound quality (stage, width, depth, dynamics, bass - everything!) Plugged in my Schiit Mani 2 clean/sterile phono stage and vinyl records and playback from the past now sound like it was remastered in my listening space with AIYIMA and Sparkos! It’s like I upgraded to $3000 phono stage yet it’s just an amp with Sparkos magic in it! Very impressive and very good in the low end! Also I’m just using the stock PSU as the upgraded 48v 5A GaN PSU resulted in poor bass response and less dynamics, so I returned it the same day. Maybe the non GaN PSU is the way to go with these… just FYI 😉
Oh no! That is bad news for sure, I hoped the Gan would be cleaner as I've been impressed with my gan phone chargers being so much cooler and smaller than conventional ones.
I am running a pair of these in mono with 48 volt power supplies into my Emotiva B1+ speakers with a 12 inch Monoprice subwoofer. Source is a WiiM Pro Plus with the AKM DAC. It sounds amazing. With some songs I can close my eyes and the speakers disappear. Dynamics are great too. This is more than a glimpse into high end audio. EDIT: I put LM4562 opamps in place of the NE5532s. They sound a lot smoother and more accurate.
Did you compare using one vs using two? I am running on one right now and the sound is already as amazing as I can imagine, given my preamp and speakers, so I am wondering if I should take a leap and bi-amp.
I was in Ron's LIVE chat last night and i mentioned the V3 and if he had ever heard it. He said "Is that the amp that Randy like's so much". I assumed it was and said yes. I would love to hear what one of these little amazing amps would sound on an efficient speaker like those Saphire's that Ron has. Especially that new Caladan speaker that he is raving about. I bet it would sound amazing and would like to see the look on Ron's face as i know he uses fairly expensive gear. I use my V3 on very large Mirage OM9 omnidirectional floorstanders in my living room. They were listed at $1300 back in 2001 and still sound amazing. That little amp sounds incredible with them! Stunned, and it actually sounds better the more i turn it up! I give out before it does as far as how loud i prefer to listen. Just wanted to share that with you Randy!
I have the early A07 as well and just tried the V3 on a whim thinking I would probably send it back. NOPE! So this new one is now the V3. Curious if the newer Fosi will possibly sound better than the V3? time will tell I guess. I won't be the first to jump in I know that. Satisfied with the V3. Definitely a cut above the older A07.
These little inexpensive amps are not just for inexpensive bookshelf speakers. People should try them with some of their nicer speakers and just check it out! Totally surprised at how good it sounds. Totally stupid for under $100. All of us for the win!!!
I have a pair of Mirage 490i I bought for my little apartment back in 96. I just saw a pair of the OM-5s for only $500 yesterday. Mirage is the best value on the secondhand market right now. The good Canadian stuff is getting lumped in with the garbage that Klipsch was selling as Mirage in Best Buy in the 2000s. I've seen M5s for $300 and 1090i for $250 in excellent condition.
I am so glad you explained the difference between Stereo and Mono. I have been confused for years. BTW, through hole is very good and Nichicon caps are also very good.. Thx.
Hi Randy, I bought an A07 Max on your recommendation, then paired it with an M300SE again after watching your review. They are great thanks. Point to note... The A07 Max runs quite warm but when hooked up to the M300 as a preamp it cools right down. Thanks and keep up the great work.
Randy, anyone that's leaving your channel is nuts. Maybe they think you crossed over to the dark side lately with your visit to New York. Anyway, you have given me hope! The tool segment was just funny. Your navy reference reminded me of what Air Force mechanics used to say: If it doesn't work, get a bigger hammer. Keep up the good work, and Merry Christmas!
I listen to lots of podcasts like this however I really like your style and technology knowledge so a big thumbs up to you. My home system is powered by a Crown 1500 professional amplifier going through Klipsch Heresy speakers and a 10 inch RSL powered subwoofer and a crest La 901 bridged at 600 watts into a 18 inch subwoofer. I have a pair of Polk Audio studio monitors that I have been looking for an amplifier for and I think you may have given me my answer. Thank you.
I just ordered one. It won't get here until the 1st week of Feb 2024. Oh well. Thx for the video and info. I currently have a QSC GX5 amp on my desk driving my Delcoid LM - 1 setup. I'm hoping this little amp will be able to push my sub enough to satisfy me. The QSC has 500wpc so I'm not expecting it to be a direct replacement. I just need the Aiyima to get me thru for a bit. I'll let you know how well it works with a bigger speaker setup. UPDATE Oct 6, 2024: ! I actually have 2 of the A07's running as monoblocks now. I'm overall very satisfied. However, I was going thru my music collection earlier and I decided to play some Loreena McKennitt. Not pleased. Her voice sounds subdued. With the QSC and other amps I've used, her voice was super clean and powerful. I'm going to switch to the QSC again to be sure it isn't me. If it is indeed the A07's I will be changing them out. I'll find a use for them elsewhere.
I needed a separate 2-channel amp to power the last two channels of my 7.2.4 AVR and was looking at the Fosi V3 and this Aiyima A07, but... and this is huge for me... the power/volume knob. The power switch needs to be separate from the volume setting so you don't have to fiddle with the level setting every time you power it on/off. I need to look elsewhere... or perhaps add my own separate power toggle. For amps under $100, they are throwaway anyway so I just may.
I got an SMSL AO300 a couple of weeks ago and we're just waiting on a pair of Dali Spektor2's to arrive here from a private seller in the UK. Really looking forward to it.
Sparkos upgrade will just add another layer and inherent character. THD is always compounding and every component your music travels through, will "effect" the end result. Can you hear it?🤷🏼♂️
I ordered a pair, not sure why. I have an unused A07, A07 pro, a Fosi BT30D, 2 additional 48v psu’s, a Sony STR 790, Onkyo RZ-50, 2 pairs of Ss-CS5’s, Klipsch Reference 5.1.4 and more. WiiM pro plus, WiiM mini also. WTH do I do with it all when the man cave is ready?
Did not read all the comments but here is a suggestion. To take off the volume knob just use a couple of spoons underneath and pry off. Very easy and non destructive every time. If already late, I apologize…
Nichicon caps are very good quality, and those have a max voltage of 63V - which means there should be no issues with a 48V power supply. And there appears to be room for Sparkos SS3602 op-amps. The lack of a sub-out is a bit of a miss, though.
These mean well type switching power supplies have a adjustable voltage veneer on board ,next to green on light. I turned my 36v to 40v ,no danger, yep ,do the math, it raised the power of the monoblocks significantly. I only add good tips. Thanks Randy for letting me contribute. I'm too old and sick to start a channel.
Thanks for doing these thought experiments out loud and in the flesh. You say this will likely be your end game desktop setup. For myself, I'm using Edifier S2000mkiiis and I love them. You've said that you don't like powered speakers, but for the cleanliness of setup (wires) and the quality of current $200-400 powered bookshelves, what's the advantage of having everything separate? The streamer I can see being useful if you don't have Spotify. But if you do, you can control through your phone easily. But as you're likely sitting at the computer, that seems unnecessary. I have a pair of Sony SSCS5s bought through your affiliate link (thanks), and I prefer the S2000. Though they do sound great in our little restaurant in Korea. Similar price all in and one optical to the computer for setup. Looking forward to your A7 vs V3 review.
You won me over with the kid!! I'm a father of two girls as well so yup, permanent sub here lol keep up the great videos! Can't thank you enough for the information.
I think these types of amps are super cool. If my kids actually wanted a system I would start here without a doubt. I put a budget vinyl system together for fun, it’s powered by a rockville blue tube hybrid amp. Not a true tube preamp, but wow does it work great.
Wish these mini amps would come with a true pre-out. Bought the v3 which says it has a pre-out but its not. Just a fixed output, no volume control. The company that comes out with that this feature is gonna make some $. A true mini mono block would be nice as well.
Running a pair as mono blocks with a BT tube Douk Audio Pre into some really cute Allison CD6 (if you know you know) Monoprice sub helping with under 75 hz.
Hi randy, excellent review as always, I'm wanting to see the a07 max in Bridgend mode as I've bought one and would want to try it. Pictures please pal👍
So if im running the A07 max in mono and I want to upgrade the op amps like a sparkos ss3602 would i only need to purchase 2 chips? One for each of the left signals since mono is only using one channel in each amp?
The new Fosi amp corrects my one complaint with the V3, which is that it doesn’t have a volume controlled line out for a subwoofer. The mono block feature is nice too, although I’m not sure that switching it to mono block mode allows you to bridge the outputs or if it bypasses the volume control like a Power amp should. This and doesn’t have the sub out, so it’s a pass from me.
TH-cam viewers are fickle…but I, by nature am pretty lazy… and I like to stay subscribed, even if at times I don’t agree with a video. Sometimes, a video comes along that I enjoy and I don’t want change, so… I stay subscribed! I like you Randy… keep it up, and I’ll just continue to watch for the consistency and… entertainment!
Wonder if that would be good for a diy sub if you run dirac to manage the eq settings I just seen a video where the guy made large jtr clone speakers with a huge 18 or 21" sub for super cheap and used a cheap 2.1 Chinese amp and he said it was very impressive. I wonder if I may try this actually, those are some cheap watts and build a ported 15" and use dirac to eq.
I bought a pair of A07 Max amps with 48V, 5A PSU's to replace the plate amps in a pair of 15 year old subs that use 200W Peerless XXLS 4 ohm drivers. The power transformers in the current class AB plate amps are mechanically hummy and drive me nuts on quiet passages. I still need to buy and fit banana terminals and bypass the current plate amps. l have a Minidsp SHD Studio and a Minidsp DA8 for pre amp, Dirac, crossover and DAC duties.
i m just getting so exited about audio gear with those again. i m just a budget person. i like good audio, but i m not willing to pay hundreds or thousands on an amp just to maybe get from 90 to a 95 in quality. All of that Fosi and Aiyima Stuff is just so exiting because its NEW decent audio gear, i can actually afford and it also means its finally time for me to say goodbye to old used avrs and stuff like that and it feels awesome. With chip shortages and also buying used gear becoming more and more a gamble because it gets older and older and more rare, something about: just going to amazon and buying it because its available feels so relaxing.
Excellent review as always Randy. I have two music sources, a Pi Streamer and a CD player. Which budget class D amp would you recommend with more than one RCA input? Cheers!
I’m no audiophile and least as far as I know so far but these amps didn’t make my coffee taste any more coffee like…they do however give a great signal to my Q Acoustic 3030i which are a warmer speaker, very sit back and relax rather than get up and dance kind of speaker at least that’s what I think so far as I have only had them for a couple of days…I still think the Wharfedale 12.2 might have been more my wave but the 3030i admittedly makes it hard to leave the get up of the couch and leave the room.
Glad to see you going back to "your roots" and taking those Sony's out of retirement. One comment though, your videos have become a bit too dark, any chance to make them a little brighter? Thank you and Merry Christmas!
I always get drawn back into these mini chi-fi amps, until i think what used classic power amp i could get used 👀 150 bucks on the used market, can get you almost everything. Real high power amps from Japan and i just can't imagine them being worse... 🤷🏻♂️ And idk, same goes for speakers, unless it's a specific model on sale, there's TONS of amazing old speakers, that sound better, than a cheap wharfedale diamond 12.0... I think people are just so overly used to buy new stuff, that we forget to look for better products, that others already paid the retail price for
I'm sure Fosi has already sent you a (set of) ZA3 but you can't talk about them yet because of NDA or they are hidden somewhere in a stack of new stuff. Those have a mono mode as well and a sub out (volume controlled and low passed) and balanced inputs.
You must have very sensitive speakers or a bad source, because I can 100% hear the difference between my A07 and my AXR100, but I’m running 3-way towers with drivers that love power. The A07 with the 36v6a PSU absolutely runs my towers, but the bass extension is rolled off completely in the mid 40s, where I can measure bass response down to the mid 30s with the Cambridge audio with tone controls set neutral.
I am new to HiFi so don’t roast me, I’m running a pair of Elac uni-fi run off a aiyima t9 and I really like just running it off Bluetooth. I am wondering if I would be better running something like the A07 or v3 off of a SMSL SU1 or am just fine with the T9. I am in an apt so can’t turn them up high anyway so volume is not an issue with the T9.
I have a little project for a garden. I already have some klipsch speakers and a marantz stereo amplifier but I need anothe amplifier to power two 12 inches and 250 watts subs, is this one a good option? I'm looking for an affordable amplifier. Thanks
Thank you for this! I would like to ask the community of A07 Max owners If they know what the input impedance of this amplifier is? (aks input resistence = ratio of input voltage / Input current) thanks
Hey just to expand on the comment on the aux output 7:23 , if I plugged my headphones into a pre amp with an aux output and a volume knob, would I then be able to change the volume ?
I love how you use the wrong tool for every job. A flat plastic prying tool would fit between the knob and the chassis and pop that knob right off. As for the nut, the worst thing you could possibly use aside from a hammer would be needle nose pliers. Try using a socket, or a crescent wrench (or combo wrench, or adjustable wrench).
Is it possible to be toooooo cheap? I’d like to see a review of Topping’s 90 series, from preamp to their cables (available from shenzhenaudio) and the new TOPPING D90 III dac. I’ve been adding to the collection with used devices, when available but I’m still a bit short of affording the whole collection. So far my ears are pretty happy. $1,201.09 for a dac is not extravagant when compared to the esoterica out there. Sure, a hundred dollar amplifier 😊may be quite enjoyable but there’s affordable betters. PS. I’ve got a pretty good collection of interconnects and the Topping’s define transparency. Wish I could borrow stuff like you!
Its good to see improvements and I know its culturally how these companies work but I think these constant flow of essentially the same thing is very confusing for the average consumer looking at all these amps. Its also super frustrating to see another amp with a aux output instead of pre-amp out, what exactly is the point of the aux? I'm sure we'll see more of these 3255 based amps so I'd like to see one of these companies make a real power amp; no volume control or any other features and release that with a real companion pre-amp with 2-4 inputs, remote, maybe a good DAC and a dedicated subwoofer output, aka a baby version of a Schiit Saga and Vidar.
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Coffee?
I got a pair of these amps. With the sparkos op amps, the sound is incredible. Best little setup I could hope for. I paired them with the Aiyima T8 and am very satisfied. Thank you, Cheapaudioman, for the great videos reviewing cheap components.
OK maybe you can answer what everyone else who reviews two bridged A07 Max amps (one for each speaker) avoids. Done that and it works fine but how do I connect my single active subwoofer? The aux out on each amp is stereo so if I use only one of the aux outs (from left or right amp) I will get bass from only one channel and there will be bass on the other channel also that won't be sent to the sub. Most of the 3.5mm 2 male jacks to 1 female are for phones so one male is for the speaker and the other for the microphone so they don't work (I tried) and in any case I have read that using a simple splitter (2 male stereo to 1 female stereo) is not a good idea as at best it reduces the overall volume and may cause damage. My sub has speaker level inputs, which I would prefer to use, but when I connect the sub cable to the same bananas as the main speakers (8 ohm) , the amps don't work, why is that when the speaker level inputs on the sub are 1k ohm so that should make minimal difference to the total impedance and certainly not below 4 ohm which the amps are rated for? So my question is once I have the A07 max in mono mode and one is driving the left and the other the right speaker, how do I connect my single subwoofer (Wharfedale Powercube 10+ which has L and R RCA connectors and L and R speaker level connectors)? Oh by the way the sub is also used for my AVR and when I use a one RCA to two RCA adapter on the left sub RCA, with both A07 max and AVR connected the volume on that channel is very much reduced. I've already made a switching box so the main speakers can be used with either AVR (best for movies) or A07 Maxs (best for music). Previously I used a single Arcam Alpha 2 amp instead of the two A07 Maxs and had no problem at all, as the Arcam worked perfectly with cables also running to the sub speaker level inputs. Apart from the amps the set-up was the same and worked perfectly.
Can i use these in Mono mode and get two of them to power my Elac F5's. On paper they are on par Emotiva BaseX amp.
Love your attitude and your channel. I'm a 67 year old musician. Music is my thing. But I'm a bit of a geek also. Macs, Logic X Pro, etc. You get it! It's all-out the sound and what your very personal ears here. Some people don't have good ears and can't hear the difference. But some of us can and we listen closely. I have all old school audio equipment. Large Advents, Kenwood KA3500, Stanton Turntable and a great record & CD collection.
I have the original A07 and the Max, both bought at Randy's recommendation. The Max is housed in a much smaller case than the original. As a result when fed with a 48V power supply the Max runs much warmer than the original, despite the addition of side and bottom vents. Even with no input signal the Max gets quite hot when left on. I just wonder if this would affect its operational liability in the long run. The disappearance of the on/off toggle switch is also regrettable.
Loved the intro, Randy! I love seeing the little people. Typical fun ride on this vid.
LOVE the new professional spokeswoman intro! The Cheap Audio Man show just reached a new level. Fun video. Great info. Thx.
Your daughter is adorable. It was nice to see her help with the intro. :) Thanks for the good video.
Laughed my ass off at the tool segment and disassembly. I used to make videos for a company doing electronic repairs on circuit boards, PCs and mobile phones and the tools were always different or proprietary and sometimes finding the right one was actually part of the video and repair processes I had to demo.
Answer? Small powered screwdriver with multiple microbits.
Just made me smile so thanks Randy.
Also liked the amp. LOL
it was dizziest synergy ive heard
Here's a trick I learned from a guitar forum for getting knobs off. Take two spoons and place them on opposite sides of the knob, with the curved part down. Then gently push down with equal pressure on both sides and the knob should come off.
A pair of bamboo chopsticks works great too, very unlikely to cause scratches. I use the larger (tapered) ends and those can be whittled slightly thinner if need be to get behind the knob.
I got the AIYIMA 07 MAX over a month ago and put Sparkos opamps in it. It sounds beautiful as a stock amp but with Sparkos it’s on another level. Just doubles/triples the sound quality (stage, width, depth, dynamics, bass - everything!) Plugged in my Schiit Mani 2 clean/sterile phono stage and vinyl records and playback from the past now sound like it was remastered in my listening space with AIYIMA and Sparkos! It’s like I upgraded to $3000 phono stage yet it’s just an amp with Sparkos magic in it! Very impressive and very good in the low end! Also I’m just using the stock PSU as the upgraded 48v 5A GaN PSU resulted in poor bass response and less dynamics, so I returned it the same day. Maybe the non GaN PSU is the way to go with these… just FYI 😉
Oh no! That is bad news for sure, I hoped the Gan would be cleaner as I've been impressed with my gan phone chargers being so much cooler and smaller than conventional ones.
thanks for the info. what Sparkos opamps did you used? thx
Another level !
Are you sure it isn't the stage of mind?
Glad you like it, man. Don’t listen to the haters or nay sayers. Nothing keep people in everlasting ignorance than contempt prior to investigation
I am running a pair of these in mono with 48 volt power supplies into my Emotiva B1+ speakers with a 12 inch Monoprice subwoofer. Source is a WiiM Pro Plus with the AKM DAC. It sounds amazing. With some songs I can close my eyes and the speakers disappear. Dynamics are great too. This is more than a glimpse into high end audio.
EDIT: I put LM4562 opamps in place of the NE5532s. They sound a lot smoother and more accurate.
Did you compare using one vs using two? I am running on one right now and the sound is already as amazing as I can imagine, given my preamp and speakers, so I am wondering if I should take a leap and bi-amp.
Hi... how did you connect the subwoofer?
I was in Ron's LIVE chat last night and i mentioned the V3 and if he had ever heard it. He said "Is that the amp that Randy like's so much". I assumed it was and said yes. I would love to hear what one of these little amazing amps would sound on an efficient speaker like those Saphire's that Ron has. Especially that new Caladan speaker that he is raving about. I bet it would sound amazing and would like to see the look on Ron's face as i know he uses fairly expensive gear. I use my V3 on very large Mirage OM9 omnidirectional floorstanders in my living room. They were listed at $1300 back in 2001 and still sound amazing. That little amp sounds incredible with them! Stunned, and it actually sounds better the more i turn it up! I give out before it does as far as how loud i prefer to listen. Just wanted to share that with you Randy!
I have the early A07 as well and just tried the V3 on a whim thinking I would probably send it back. NOPE! So this new one is now the V3. Curious if the newer Fosi will possibly sound better than the V3? time will tell I guess. I won't be the first to jump in I know that. Satisfied with the V3. Definitely a cut above the older A07.
These little inexpensive amps are not just for inexpensive bookshelf speakers. People should try them with some of their nicer speakers and just check it out! Totally surprised at how good it sounds. Totally stupid for under $100. All of us for the win!!!
I have a pair of Mirage 490i I bought for my little apartment back in 96. I just saw a pair of the OM-5s for only $500 yesterday. Mirage is the best value on the secondhand market right now. The good Canadian stuff is getting lumped in with the garbage that Klipsch was selling as Mirage in Best Buy in the 2000s. I've seen M5s for $300 and 1090i for $250 in excellent condition.
Lol love the use of vice grips 😅
I am so glad you explained the difference between Stereo and Mono. I have been confused for years. BTW, through hole is very good and Nichicon caps are also very good.. Thx.
That made me crack up big time!
I wanted to clear up any confusion
Actually I want to send some of these to you to get your opinion
LMAO
Hi Randy. Finally an amp with bridging. Could be a game changer for some. Well done.
Great video, Randy, as usual. The bridging feature is cool for sure…..👍
Current system Aiyima A07 max, WIIM mini, and Kef q150. Very happy.
Hi Randy, I bought an A07 Max on your recommendation, then paired it with an M300SE again after watching your review. They are great thanks. Point to note... The A07 Max runs quite warm but when hooked up to the M300 as a preamp it cools right down. Thanks and keep up the great work.
The intro was so awesome I had to go back and watch again 😂
we LOVE THE SHOW always. great information on new products. always worth the watch
Randy, anyone that's leaving your channel is nuts. Maybe they think you crossed over to the dark side lately with your visit to New York. Anyway, you have given me hope! The tool segment was just funny. Your navy reference reminded me of what Air Force mechanics used to say: If it doesn't work, get a bigger hammer. Keep up the good work, and Merry Christmas!
I know I am an audiophile precisely because I get annoyed by audiophiles.
example? just wanted to have a who gets most annoyed type thumb war w someone on it..
Oh man…how are you so informative AND entertaining at the same time? 😂❤
I listen to lots of podcasts like this however I really like your style and technology knowledge so a big thumbs up to you.
My home system is powered by a Crown 1500 professional amplifier going through Klipsch Heresy speakers and a 10 inch RSL
powered subwoofer and a crest La 901 bridged at 600 watts into a 18 inch subwoofer.
I have a pair of Polk Audio studio monitors that I have been looking for an amplifier for and I think you may have given me my answer.
Thank you.
I just ordered one. It won't get here until the 1st week of Feb 2024. Oh well. Thx for the video and info. I currently have a QSC GX5 amp on my desk driving my Delcoid LM - 1 setup. I'm hoping this little amp will be able to push my sub enough to satisfy me. The QSC has 500wpc so I'm not expecting it to be a direct replacement. I just need the Aiyima to get me thru for a bit. I'll let you know how well it works with a bigger speaker setup.
UPDATE Oct 6, 2024: ! I actually have 2 of the A07's running as monoblocks now. I'm overall very satisfied. However, I was going thru my music collection earlier and I decided to play some Loreena McKennitt. Not pleased. Her voice sounds subdued. With the QSC and other amps I've used, her voice was super clean and powerful. I'm going to switch to the QSC again to be sure it isn't me. If it is indeed the A07's I will be changing them out. I'll find a use for them elsewhere.
I needed a separate 2-channel amp to power the last two channels of my 7.2.4 AVR and was looking at the Fosi V3 and this Aiyima A07, but... and this is huge for me... the power/volume knob. The power switch needs to be separate from the volume setting so you don't have to fiddle with the level setting every time you power it on/off. I need to look elsewhere... or perhaps add my own separate power toggle. For amps under $100, they are throwaway anyway so I just may.
I got an SMSL AO300 a couple of weeks ago and we're just waiting on a pair of Dali Spektor2's to arrive here from a private seller in the UK. Really looking forward to it.
Can really feel your enthusiasm with this one 👍
Can't wait for the mono performance comparison video between two of these and a couple of Fosi ZA3's.
Great work on the graphics for your intro sequence
Big thumbs up for your assistant 👍 😊
Completely forgot about the reindeer vaccinations! Thanks for reminding me, Randy. And great review, too, by the way.
Would love a comparison vs the Fosi ZA3. Also, If I already use Sparkos OpAmps on my J2. Is it overkill to use the same OpAmps on the amp too?
Sparkos upgrade will just add another layer and inherent character. THD is always compounding and every component your music travels through, will "effect" the end result. Can you hear it?🤷🏼♂️
Put Sparkos on all of your Speaker Binding posts, CD Jewel Cases, Turntable lids, etc. It's getting a bit crowded in the Rabbit Hole.
@@gregbailer8701yeah brah, this is the truth
I ordered a pair, not sure why. I have an unused A07, A07 pro, a Fosi BT30D, 2 additional 48v psu’s, a Sony STR 790, Onkyo RZ-50, 2 pairs of Ss-CS5’s, Klipsch Reference 5.1.4 and more. WiiM pro plus, WiiM mini also.
WTH do I do with it all when the man cave is ready?
Did not read all the comments but here is a suggestion. To take off the volume knob just use a couple of spoons underneath and pry off. Very easy and non destructive every time. If already late, I apologize…
I have an Aiyima DAC and I absolutely love it! This amp might be next.
Nichicon caps are very good quality, and those have a max voltage of 63V - which means there should be no issues with a 48V power supply. And there appears to be room for Sparkos SS3602 op-amps.
The lack of a sub-out is a bit of a miss, though.
Yup, already have Sparkos in mine, doubles/triples the already amazing sound quality 😉 No BS! Sounds better without a sub in my system 😁
These mean well type switching power supplies have a adjustable voltage veneer on board ,next to green on light. I turned my 36v to 40v ,no danger, yep ,do the math, it raised the power of the monoblocks significantly. I only add good tips. Thanks Randy for letting me contribute. I'm too old and sick to start a channel.
Only has 50v caps gets hot and has high pitched noise .I'm going to uprate mine to 63v nichicons
Where sells them & how much? If you don't mind my asking 😊
@@Zimmy_1981 I am not sure what you're asking about?
Got the geshelli J2S with 4499 and sparkos. OMG! I Stayed up all night listening to music.
Very interesting insight into these two companies, thanks. Really want to get more takes on running these as monoblocks.
Is Fosi V3 better than A07 max if we do not consider mono mode?
I like your personality, that why i like watching you . 😁
The part about people leaving after watching a new video got me pretty good lol
For your upcoming comparison with the Fosi V3, I want to request more detail about the aux port functionality of the A07 MAX. Thank you
Thanks for doing these thought experiments out loud and in the flesh. You say this will likely be your end game desktop setup. For myself, I'm using Edifier S2000mkiiis and I love them. You've said that you don't like powered speakers, but for the cleanliness of setup (wires) and the quality of current $200-400 powered bookshelves, what's the advantage of having everything separate? The streamer I can see being useful if you don't have Spotify. But if you do, you can control through your phone easily. But as you're likely sitting at the computer, that seems unnecessary. I have a pair of Sony SSCS5s bought through your affiliate link (thanks), and I prefer the S2000. Though they do sound great in our little restaurant in Korea. Similar price all in and one optical to the computer for setup.
Looking forward to your A7 vs V3 review.
You won me over with the kid!! I'm a father of two girls as well so yup, permanent sub here lol keep up the great videos! Can't thank you enough for the information.
How does the A07max compare to the A08 Max in SQ? I am using 08 and like the 08 since it has got BT and a nice dial~
I have that ratcheting screwdriver set too. Super handy!
Randy , we like your personality!
I think these types of amps are super cool. If my kids actually wanted a system I would start here without a doubt.
I put a budget vinyl system together for fun, it’s powered by a rockville blue tube hybrid amp. Not a true tube preamp, but wow does it work great.
You are the best man on TH-cam audio
Don't have the 'max' but the old AO7 is great. Love 'em for surround and center channel amps. Total bargain.
well yeah align with the expected cost
Wish these mini amps would come with a true pre-out. Bought the v3 which says it has a pre-out but its not. Just a fixed output, no volume control. The company that comes out with that this feature is gonna make some $. A true mini mono block would be nice as well.
Excellent as always !!!
Keep it up !!!
Why thank you, my friend
Brillant video and thank you for your humor very funny.
Running a pair as mono blocks with a BT tube Douk Audio Pre into some really cute Allison CD6 (if you know you know) Monoprice sub helping with under 75 hz.
Hi randy, excellent review as always, I'm wanting to see the a07 max in Bridgend mode as I've bought one and would want to try it. Pictures please pal👍
So if im running the A07 max in mono and I want to upgrade the op amps like a sparkos ss3602 would i only need to purchase 2 chips? One for each of the left signals since mono is only using one channel in each amp?
The new Fosi amp corrects my one complaint with the V3, which is that it doesn’t have a volume controlled line out for a subwoofer. The mono block feature is nice too, although I’m not sure that switching it to mono block mode allows you to bridge the outputs or if it bypasses the volume control like a Power amp should. This and doesn’t have the sub out, so it’s a pass from me.
TH-cam viewers are fickle…but I, by nature am pretty lazy… and I like to stay subscribed, even if at times I don’t agree with a video. Sometimes, a video comes along that I enjoy and I don’t want change, so… I stay subscribed!
I like you Randy… keep it up, and I’ll just continue to watch for the consistency and… entertainment!
Im looking to build the css torri kit, I have a question regarding the amplifier? Will such an amplifier be sufficient?
Wonder if that would be good for a diy sub if you run dirac to manage the eq settings
I just seen a video where the guy made large jtr clone speakers with a huge 18 or 21" sub for super cheap and used a cheap 2.1 Chinese amp and he said it was very impressive. I wonder if I may try this actually, those are some cheap watts and build a ported 15" and use dirac to eq.
I bought a pair of A07 Max amps with 48V, 5A PSU's to replace the plate amps in a pair of 15 year old subs that use 200W Peerless XXLS 4 ohm drivers. The power transformers in the current class AB plate amps are mechanically hummy and drive me nuts on quiet passages. I still need to buy and fit banana terminals and bypass the current plate amps. l have a Minidsp SHD Studio and a Minidsp DA8 for pre amp, Dirac, crossover and DAC duties.
Thanks Randy
I've been watching your content for a couple of months now and appreciate the reviews. How do you feel about Micca amps?
Lol!! That sweet, sweet affiliate income! Love it
i m just getting so exited about audio gear with those again. i m just a budget person. i like good audio, but i m not willing to pay hundreds or thousands on an amp just to maybe get from 90 to a 95 in quality. All of that Fosi and Aiyima Stuff is just so exiting because its NEW decent audio gear, i can actually afford and it also means its finally time for me to say goodbye to old used avrs and stuff like that and it feels awesome. With chip shortages and also buying used gear becoming more and more a gamble because it gets older and older and more rare, something about: just going to amazon and buying it because its available feels so relaxing.
Christmas is great 👍 it's the time of year to buy myself a new amp !
Hi randy you should talk to aiyima about making an amp with a sub out and remote control also a fixed or variable output to bypass the volume control
The RSL iA255.1 amp does most of that, might be worth looking into.
Quote of the day: "When you put it into Mono, you're no longer in Stereo"
My Fosi 48V5A power supply works great with my (non-max) A07.
I have a 9 channel amplifiers receiver and 2 pre-out channels , can I use one this to power up my 2 extra channels ?🤔
Excellent review as always Randy. I have two music sources, a Pi Streamer and a CD player. Which budget class D amp would you recommend with more than one RCA input? Cheers!
I’m no audiophile and least as far as I know so far but these amps didn’t make my coffee taste any more coffee like…they do however give a great signal to my Q Acoustic 3030i which are a warmer speaker, very sit back and relax rather than get up and dance kind of speaker at least that’s what I think so far as I have only had them for a couple of days…I still think the Wharfedale 12.2 might have been more my wave but the 3030i admittedly makes it hard to leave the get up of the couch and leave the room.
Gets really hot on 48v . Sounds fantastic though in bridged mono mode.
All that power for £110 for 2 brilliant 👍
My Aiyima D05 is a beast, powers my JBL L50s with ease and it sounds smooth.
Glad to see you going back to "your roots" and taking those Sony's out of retirement. One comment though, your videos have become a bit too dark, any chance to make them a little brighter? Thank you and Merry Christmas!
I bought the little RSL amp based on your recommendations. Have you done anymore comparisons, or shootouts with that one???
Is it a good choice for Wharfedale Diamond 10.2?
I always get drawn back into these mini chi-fi amps, until i think what used classic power amp i could get used 👀
150 bucks on the used market, can get you almost everything.
Real high power amps from Japan and i just can't imagine them being worse... 🤷🏻♂️
And idk, same goes for speakers, unless it's a specific model on sale, there's TONS of amazing old speakers, that sound better, than a cheap wharfedale diamond 12.0...
I think people are just so overly used to buy new stuff, that we forget to look for better products, that others already paid the retail price for
I'm sure Fosi has already sent you a (set of) ZA3 but you can't talk about them yet because of NDA or they are hidden somewhere in a stack of new stuff. Those have a mono mode as well and a sub out (volume controlled and low passed) and balanced inputs.
And a 12v trigger, I hear.
Love the ao7! Couldnt tell a difference A/B between it and the Rotel a12
Did you actually listen to them over 60db?
You must have very sensitive speakers or a bad source, because I can 100% hear the difference between my A07 and my AXR100, but I’m running 3-way towers with drivers that love power. The A07 with the 36v6a PSU absolutely runs my towers, but the bass extension is rolled off completely in the mid 40s, where I can measure bass response down to the mid 30s with the Cambridge audio with tone controls set neutral.
i like this drunken-master way of presentation. new subscriber.
Are these small amps really better than the much larger and more feature packed STR DH190?
I am new to HiFi so don’t roast me, I’m running a pair of Elac uni-fi run off a aiyima t9 and I really like just running it off Bluetooth. I am wondering if I would be better running something like the A07 or v3 off of a SMSL SU1 or am just fine with the T9. I am in an apt so can’t turn them up high anyway so volume is not an issue with the T9.
UB52s? I can tell you that 2x A07 Max's KICK on UB52s.. WAY better than T9.
I'm seeing that 2 online companies here in the Philippines, Lazada and Shopee are already carrying the Max with 36v and 48v.
Just watched Michael Andrews review of the AO7 max and he torn it apart even to the point of suggesing it be removed from the market.
Great reviews and humor
Randy doing this for so long, his sale pitch like a smooth criminal.
I have a little project for a garden. I already have some klipsch speakers and a marantz stereo amplifier but I need anothe amplifier to power two 12 inches and 250 watts subs, is this one a good option? I'm looking for an affordable amplifier. Thanks
Is it better than v3?
I can't wait of Williston Audio to put it on the amp dyno
Would love to see a comparison of these to the internal amps of common receivers (Onkyo RZ50/70, Sony ES, etc).
How do you intend to add a subwoofer?
Thank you for this! I would like to ask the community of A07 Max owners If they know what the input impedance of this amplifier is? (aks input resistence = ratio of input voltage / Input current)
thanks
Hi Randy, How this compare to Sabaj a20a in term of sound quality please ? I have 2x Sabaj at bridge mode 😅
Hey just to expand on the comment on the aux output 7:23 , if I plugged my headphones into a pre amp with an aux output and a volume knob, would I then be able to change the volume ?
If you’re playing around with op amps you should include the muses02
I love how you use the wrong tool for every job. A flat plastic prying tool would fit between the knob and the chassis and pop that knob right off. As for the nut, the worst thing you could possibly use aside from a hammer would be needle nose pliers. Try using a socket, or a crescent wrench (or combo wrench, or adjustable wrench).
My big question is if I need the Max although I have the Pro. Is there really a sound difference ?
This obsession is 100% subjective but rationalized with fact
how long a break in period?
Is it possible to be toooooo cheap? I’d like to see a review of Topping’s 90 series, from preamp to their cables (available from shenzhenaudio) and the new TOPPING D90 III dac. I’ve been adding to the collection with used devices, when available but I’m still a bit short of affording the whole collection. So far my ears are pretty happy. $1,201.09 for a dac is not extravagant when compared to the esoterica out there. Sure, a hundred dollar amplifier 😊may be quite enjoyable but there’s affordable betters. PS. I’ve got a pretty good collection of interconnects and the Topping’s define transparency. Wish I could borrow stuff like you!
Its good to see improvements and I know its culturally how these companies work but I think these constant flow of essentially the same thing is very confusing for the average consumer looking at all these amps. Its also super frustrating to see another amp with a aux output instead of pre-amp out, what exactly is the point of the aux?
I'm sure we'll see more of these 3255 based amps so I'd like to see one of these companies make a real power amp; no volume control or any other features and release that with a real companion pre-amp with 2-4 inputs, remote, maybe a good DAC and a dedicated subwoofer output, aka a baby version of a Schiit Saga and Vidar.