Audio amplifier: quick guide to choosing (with examples)

Quick but thoughtful guide to choosing the ideal audio amplifier

Choosing an audio amplifier is really an important step in building one's sound setup.

These devices have the fundamental task of driving passive speakers and loudspeakers, and giving life and substance to one's favorite music and content.

There are so many variables to consider when you want to choose an amplifier. From the type (pre-amp, power amp, integrated), all the way down to the class (we talked about it in this article, "Class D amplifier: what it is, what it looks like, how it works").

In this guide we will focus on integrated amplifiers, which are ideal for those who want to buy a complete solution that can give satisfaction right from the start.

First, however, let's see what factors are involved in choosing amplifiers.

How to choose an audio amplifier?

In our article dedicated to tube amplifiers, we explained that it is really difficult to give definite guidelines when choosing an amplifier for passive speakers. In that specific post, the comparison was between tube and transistor models. However, the discussion can also be easily transported to a more general level.

In order to choose the most suitable device for one's needs, then, one must necessarily go through a phase of research, trial, error, and repetition. Somewhat like the process of placing loudspeakers in a room.

Those looking for simple or one-size-fits-all answers, therefore, may be disappointed. But this is not necessarily bad news: the wide variety of devices on the market manages to cover the majority of audiophiles' needs.

Here, then, are a few examples of integrated amplifiers from our catalog.

Denon PMA-800NE, very high quality/price ratio

An extremely good integrated amplifier, also appreciated for its very competitive price/quality ratio. Denon PMA-800NE is a neat product and very nice to look at, with its discreet design dominated by black color.

It is a two-channel 80 W amp into 4 ohms, with built-in 192 kHz DAC, and built-in MM/MC phono stage. The main connections see 3 optical and one coaxial digital input, as well as 4 analog inputs and an analog output.

A great value for money: buy Denon PMA-800NE in our shop

Cambridge Audio AX A 35, with bluetooth and more

It happens sometimes to change amplifiers and hear details of sound that simply did not exist before. Bass lines, a guitar string glistening between chords. Many people swear by this experience with the Cambridge Audio AX A 35, a model capable of meeting a variety of needs.

35 W of power per channel, built-in phono stage for moving magnet (MM), provision for connecting a Bluetooth receiver. And again, a front AUX input with 6.3 mm headphone output and a handy remote control. And there is also a built-in screen, to check which source is active.

A complete, high-performance amplifier: Cambridge Audio AX A 35 is on HiFi Prestige

Marantz PM5005, the ultimate entry level

In thearticle devoted to amplifiers Marantz, we called this PM5005 the king of entry-levelamplifiers. And indeed it seems to be just one of the most apt ways to describe this stereo amplifier, equipped with many interesting features and with a quality/price ratio that fears no comparison.

A younger brother of the PM6006 model, which costs more, however, it delivers 40 W per channel into 8 ohms, or 55 W into 4 ohms. The MM phono equalizer has a special function (Sound Direct) that ensures faster signal paths. An amplifier for music and beyond, ideal for setups of all kinds.

Marantz PM5005 is available for purchase in our shop: check out the data sheet

McIntosh MA9000, the great classic

In such an article, you cannot miss an exponent McIntosh, cult brand for fans. In this case, it is the MA9000 model.

The cost is not remotely comparable to the other devices mentioned in this list, it must be said. However, it is also true that we are talking about music history here, about the brand that brought amplifiers to play in the legendary Woodstock scene (we discuss it extensively in this article).

This is an amp that we have no trouble calling "mighty." Among the American brand's products it is one of the most impressive, with its 300 W for 2 channels on 2, 4, and 8 ohms.

A very high-end device designed for the uncontactable audiophile.

Discover the appeal of McIntosh MA9000 in our online shop

Rega Brio R, the attractive alternative

Choosing a passive speaker amplifier like the Rega Brio R is certainly an interesting decision. An integrated unit capable of completely transforming sound, making it exciting and three-dimensional.

With 50 W per channel, it has phono input, headphone output and remote control. The aesthetics are also very well taken care of. It could almost be called a mini stereo amplifier, especially when compared to other models also analyzed in this article. The cabinet has a refined and minimalist style, very elegant but at the same time durable.

The 2007 Rega Brio amplifier is available in our online catalog

Integrated amplifiers from the best brands on HiFi Prestige

We are fortunate to offer all enthusiasts amplifiers from the best brands. In addition to the proposals described in this article, leading exponents of the Onkyo, Magnat, Teac and many other catalogs await you.

And for any information, please feel free to contact us at 335 6672281, or email info@hifiprestige.it.