TOP pre & AMPLIFIERS
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The various AMPLIFIERS listed below are our subjective picks for the topAMPLIFIERS in the world, based upon our reviews. That said, the list is dynamic and as we review new AMPLIFIERS that we feel deserve a spot on the list, well, the list and thus the ranking will change to accommodate the new AMPLIFIER. Things change.
1.
AUDIONET PRE G2 & AMP MONOS
The Audionet PRE G2 preamp and AMP monoblocks are velvet hammers. Should the program material require them to access the stygian depths of the Holy-Bass-Head-Grail, they will take you there swiftly, as it is a path they know well. And in this respect, the Audionet PRE G2 preamp and AMP monoblocks are hammers. Yet should the material require a stratospheric rise to tip-top, treble heights or a most proficient, beautifully resolved, and compellingly engaging vocal, you will be there. This skill is, of course, the velvet covering the hammer. I report this from much experience and having travelled often to the electrostatic world, where the Audionet Duo and the Tri-Art OPEN 5 appear to share a condo. ($43,000)
The Mola Mola Kaluga mono block amplifiers, at approximately 17 grand, deliver far more sonic goodness than their price indicates. Yes, 17 grand is a lot of money, but within the context of a market that gives us power amplifiers of all designs that are priced at many multiples of the Kalugas, these amps are to be reckoned with. The Kalugas offer a clarity, definition and punch that will make most speakers sound just about their best. Of course, hearing is believing, so auditioning these amps with your speakers is a must. To these ears, the Kalugas made our Magnepans sound their very best up to this point. ($17,000)
3.
AUDIONET DNP/EPX PREAMP/STREAMER
Imagine for a moment the Audionet DNP/EPX combo as, say, a boxer. Then the combo would be a young Mike Tyson (prior to criminal offense)—lightning fast, knockout powerful, incredibly deft footwork, and fearless to boot. Yep, that just about sums up the synergy of these two kindred electronic components. MSRP: $30,400
4.
PARASOUND P6 & A21+ PRE/AMP
It is virtually impossible not to come away impressed with what Parasound has to offer with the A21+ power amplifier and P6 preamplifer, DAC, phono state, and overall control center. For under $5000 you get a combination that seems to me virtually impossible to beat considering the sonics and feature set. The pair will remain in my system for some time as a reference, they are that good. The A21+ will without a doubt drive any speaker. Its build quality and parts quality instill confidence in its durability. The P6 preamp does everything well, and is a truly modern control center. $4,749
5.
AURORASOUND VIDA PHONOPRE
The Aurorasound VIDA MKII phono stage is simply a wonderful piece of playback gear. It had no flaw that I could put my finger on sonically or ergonomically. It looks amazing, is built with precision and craft, and has more features than most vinyl enthusiasts are accustomed to. Clearly, founder and designer Shinobu Karak’s 30 years of experience with Sony and Texas Instruments has paid off in his circuit designs. The real wood enclosure, which can also be ordered in black, is the icing on the cake. ($4,999)