Rating of the best integrated amplifiers for 2022

For any more or less knowledgeable person in the field of acoustic technology, it is known that the most important component of an audio system is an amplifier. Functions include amplifying the incoming signal, processing it and transmitting it to speakers for playback, switching connected devices and adjusting the volume. Full-fledged sound will never be achieved without the use of such a technique.

The Russian market offers many models of integrated amplifiers for home audio systems, which differ not only in technical characteristics, but also in price. It is very difficult for beginners to figure out which device is best suited for a particular case, because at first glance they all seem very similar. This review provides basic information about such equipment with ratings of the best products from leading manufacturers in order to avoid mistakes when choosing.

What it is

An integrated amplifier is an electronic device that amplifies an audio signal to a power sufficient to be output to a speaker system, with all controls and functional blocks placed in a common housing.

The harmonic components of the most successful models are in the range of 20 - 20,000 Hz.

The main components are:

• preamplifier - primary amplification of the incoming signal to the level of perception by the terminal device, switching and level control;
• power amplifier - increasing the processed signal to the level of reproduction by acoustic systems at sufficient volume;
• distributor (distributor) - to regulate the amplitudes of signals with their subsequent distribution to several channels;
• power supply - for power supply of all units and circuits of the device.

 

Operating principle

The operation of sound amplifying equipment is based on the conversion of the energy received by the amplifying element from the power source into the energy of the amplified input signal.

Main steps:

1. A signal is received from the sound source at the input, which is pre-amplified at the first stage and sent to the amplifier without distortion. There is also a volume control here. At the same time, the quality of the original sound should not be lost.
2. In the second stage, the driver stage, the signal is prepared for transmission to the final stage.
3. Speakers are connected to the third most powerful cascade, which reproduce sound without distortion at the required volume.

Varieties

By type of reinforcement element

1. Lamp.

Circuitry is based on the use of powerful radio tubes.

Main advantages:

• high-quality soft sound at high and medium frequencies;
• few external noises;
• without “hissing” with smooth signal limitation in case of overload;
• rare cases of short circuits;
• a simple circuit using a small number of radio components;
• good maintainability.

At the same time, the disadvantage is the difficulty in finding a full-fledged replacement for failed elements.

2. Transistor.

Circuitry is based on the use of transistors, small circuits or integrated microprocessors.

• Main advantages:
• higher power;
• saturation of reproduction at low frequencies;
• compactness;
• minimalistic design;
• maintainability.

The disadvantage is the complexity of the device, which requires contacting specialists in the event of a malfunction.

3. Hybrid.

Power amplification is performed by a combination of tube and semiconductor circuits. Such models combine their advantages with the minimization of common disadvantages. Typically, tubes are placed in the preamplifier, and semiconductors in the final stages before being output to the acoustics.

By number of channels

1. Mono - for amplification on one channel. Typically found in subwoofers for bass processing or high-end equipment.
2. Stereo - for use in a stereo system.
3. Multichannel - for extracting surround sound. For home theaters, models with six channels are usually available. Three- and five-channel options are rare.

Ideally, each column corresponds to its specific channel.

By signal type

1. Analog – works only with analog sources. When connecting a digital device, an appropriate converter is required. The sound quality often surpasses digital models, but the capabilities and functionality are somewhat weaker.
2. Digital - work with digital sources. Before output to acoustics, conversion to analog form is required. Models are more economical with excellent signal-to-noise performance. Installing DSP processors allows you to adjust the acoustics and get various other useful options.

By class

1. "A" - class.

Single-ended circuit with one element (transistor or lamp) to amplify both half-waves of a sinusoidal waveform (positive and negative). Such a scheme avoids the need for their exact matching of two different elements, which is typical for the "AB" class. Despite the high sound quality, they get quite hot, and the power is much less.

2. "B" - class.

Amplification circuit for only one half-cycle: positive (tubes, semiconductors-npn) or negative (transistors-pnp).

3. "AB" - class.

Push-pull circuit with amplification of positive and negative half-waves by different elements.Compared to “A” devices, they have twice the power, they emit less heat, and during operation they have more efficiency and are more economical. However, if the design is unsuccessful, distortions are possible due to inaccurate matching of elements that are responsible for amplifying different half-waves.

According to the placement of the power supply

1. Inside the common case along with all functional blocks.
2. In a separate housing to reduce additional interference due to the negative influence of the electromagnetic field and vibration of the transformer.

Criterias of choice

Before purchasing equipment, experts recommend paying attention to the following points in order to avoid mistakes when choosing.

1. Select the optimal type of reinforcing element depending on the intended use.

2. Decide on the number of channels by the number of speakers, they must be greater or equal. This rule is especially true for gamers and moviegoers to get surround sound.

3. Find a device for your speaker system. In doing so, consider the following:

• the best performance is achieved when operating at 70% of the possibilities with an amplifier power to acoustics ratio of 1.6: 1.0, i.e. with a "snare" of 1.6 kW, the audio system should draw 1.0 kW;
• the real power of the device is determined by the nominal, and not the maximum power, which manufacturers often indicate;
• reducing the sensitivity of acoustics by 3 dB requires amplifying the power of the device twice, i.e. to increase the volume from 57 to 60 dB, a 1 kW amplifier must be increased to 2 kW.

4. The distortion factor must be within:

• in the range of 40 Hz - 12.5 kHz harmonic deformations - less than 1%;
• in the range of 250 Hz - 8 kHz intermodulation distortion - no more than 3%.

5.Operating frequency range within 20 Hz - 20 kHz. The wider it is when issuing a direct amplitude-frequency characteristic, the better the device is. In the case of falls on the frequency response graph, such sections of the sound range will be unfinished.

6. Sound clarity is determined by the ratio of the useful signal to the noise measured at full volume. It is recommended to choose models with a parameter of 90/100 dB.

7. Consider the dimensions of the room where the system will work:

• per room up to 15 sq. m enough 3-4 W / m2 per channel;
• for a room over 25 sq. m requires 5-7 W / m2.

8. Pay attention to the presence of terminals with threaded clamps for connecting to acoustics, which are more reliable than spring latches.

9. It’s better not to get hung up on the search for TOP new products, because equipment with a two-three-year history can be bought much cheaper, and its quality is almost the same.

Where could I buy

Popular models are sold in specialized audio or digital equipment outlets. The offered products of leading companies and manufacturers can be heard there in real sound, because no reviews can be compared with testing equipment in the “field conditions”. At the same time, managers will advise how to choose which company model is better to buy, how much it costs. There are also colorful booklets with descriptions, characteristics and photos.

In addition, in the absence of a decent choice at the place of residence, good devices can be ordered online in the online stores of dealers and sellers of audio-digital equipment, as well as on the pages of trade aggregators, for example, Yandex.Market.

Offers for integrated amplifiers in Moscow:

• lamp - from 46,000 rubles. (Line Magnetic LM-218 mini IA) up to 3,835,000 rubles. (Unison Research Absolute 845);
• transistor - from 2,490 rubles. (Behringer MA4008) up to 3,517,090 rubles. (Constellation Audio Performance Argo);
• hybrid - from 7,250 rubles. (TOP A3255) up to 1,315,310 rubles. (PATHOS InPol Heritage).

Best Integrated Amplifiers

The rating of high-quality devices is based on feedback from customers who use such systems in everyday life. The popularity of models is due to the presence of positive reviews, comparison of technical characteristics and parameters, functionality, and price.

The review includes ratings among the best integrated models with tube, transistor and hybrid amplifying elements, which are offered by leading manufacturers in the domestic market.

TOP 3 best tube amplifiers

Copland CTA 405A

Brand - Copland (Denmark).

An improved model of the well-known device of the eminent Danish manufacturer of audio equipment, successfully combining the latest technical achievements with classic designs. The use of Russian-made lamps made it possible to increase the dynamic range. Reliable sound reproduction without distortion is achieved by high output power with low reverse currents.

The hard case of the device with black or silver trim is made in a strict Scandinavian style. The toggle switches and buttons necessary for control are displayed on the front panel. There are also status indicators. All connectors are located on the back of the case. Management can be carried out from the remote control. The high-power lamps are cooled by a low-speed, low-noise fan mounted on an aluminum platform with shock-absorbing inserts.

Price - from 368,000 rubles.

• rich bass register;
• balanced tone warm sound;
• high quality components;
• preamplifier with RIAA phono stage;
• organization of tape recorder monitoring;
• electric volume control;
• silent cooling fan;
• excellent value for money;
• strict minimalistic design for an amateur.

• not detected.

Danish tube Copland CTA 405A:

Cary Audio SLI-100

Brand - Cary Audio (USA).

The next generation 2-channel model features a 'dual mono' design with great sound and great power, delivering a clean signal from the output transformer to the headphones. Combines high aesthetics and precision, offering high performance and ease of use. It has low noise and playback with excellent transparency, resolution, nuance and detail. All musical genres and styles sound without distortion with high quality. The entire structure is supported by a black powder-coated welded steel chassis, which is a solid support for all components. The front surface is made of aluminium. The removable perforated cover protects the lamps brought to the body.

Price - from 523,300 rubles.

• work with any analog signals;
• reliable and powerful lamps;
• feedback is practically absent (only 4 dB);
• manual execution;
• high quality components;
• special shielding of output transformers filled with purified wax;
• special shielding of the mains transformer to remove pickups.

• overpriced.

Cary Audio SLI-100 in action:

PrimaLuna Evolution 400 Int

Brand - PrimaLuna (Netherlands).

The top model of its series, developing the highest power in comparison with other products in the line due to the use of twice the number of lamps in the final stages. Reinforcing elements are protected by a removable casing and a massive metal case. A proprietary adaptive auto-bias system evaluates the performance of the lamps and adjusts if necessary. LED indication will warn in advance of the need to replace the lamp. Operating modes ultralinear / triode can be switched from the remote control. The high quality AlpsBlueVelvet motorized potentiometer continuously adjusts the sound volume. A good supply of output power allows you to connect any modern high-end acoustics.

Price - from 361,130 rubles.

• good study of all parts of the range;
• precise bass control;
• custom network and output transformers;
• protection against external pickups;
• correct design;
• high quality components;
• great build.

• overly strict design;
• heats up during extended use.

Video demonstration of PrimaLuna Evolution 400 Int (translation available when viewed on Youtube):

comparison table

	Copland CTA 405A	Cary Audio SLI-100	PrimaLuna Evolution 400 Int
Options:
number of channels	2	2	2
frequency range, Hz	10 - 100000	19 - 23000	8 - 68000
power per channel (8 Ohm), W	50	100	70
signal-to-noise ratio, dB	95	82	93
harmonic coefficient, %	0.4	0.5	0.1
sensitivity, mV	350	450	320
input resistance, kOhm	33	100	100
Functions and features:
adjustments	level	level, balance	level
Connectors:
inputs	linear RCA x6	linear RCA x4	linear RCA hb
exits	RCA, acoustic 2x3 (WBT)	subwoofer x2, headphones	subwoofer x2, headphones, linear
General:
power consumption, W	250	166	255
remote control	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions (WxDxH), mm	430x390x185	438x406x198	386x404x206
Weight, kg	27	19	31

TOP 3 best transistor integrated amplifiers

Denon PMA-600NE

Brand - Denon (Japan).

Integrated model with output to the front channels up to 70 watts thanks to proprietary AdvancedHighCurrent push-pull amplification and SignalLevelDividedConstruction signal separation. Digital sources are connected via coaxial and two optical inputs to a digital-to-analog converter. Built-in Bluetooth module supports basic AAC and SBC codecs. To obtain the best sound quality and minimize interference, the digital section can be turned off when the device is switched to analog mode. High-quality playback of vinyl discs is provided by a built-in high-gain phono stage. Ensuring pure sound and eliminating extraneous interference is achieved by using separate outputs of the power transformer for digital and audio control circuits.

Price - from 39,999 rubles.

• high power;
• internal separation of signals of different levels;
• support for digital inputs and Bluetooth;
• availability of coaxial and optical inputs;
• analog mode of operation;
• built-in MM phono stage;
• separate outputs of the power transformer for different control circuits;
• automatic stop of the microprocessor in the absence of the need for playback;
• verified manufacturer;
• high quality components;
• excellent assembly;
• classic design.

• missing USB;
• without terminals for the second pair of acoustics.

Unboxing the Denon PMA-600NE:

Marantz PM6007

Brand - Marantz (Japan).

Popular model with new D/A converter and HDAM-SA3 reverse current circuitry for increased dynamic range with reduced distortion. At the output, the device is capable of delivering 45 watts with overlapping of the audible range. Improved heat dissipation has greatly increased efficiency at high volumes, especially in the bass register. The installation of coaxial and two optical inputs gives the equipment additional analog capabilities. Clean power and load handling capability is achieved using a well-shielded toroidal transformer with low EMI, a set of large high-current capacitors, and ultra-fast Schottky diodes. High input impedance and short signal path minimizing distortion and interference are provided by the MM phono stage with field-effect semiconductors at the input.

Price - from 55,923 rubles.

• application of proprietary technologies;
• high volume;
• extended range;
• reduced distortion;
• quality assembly;
• convenient remote control;
• many connectors with the ability to connect multiple devices;
• stylish design.

• not detected.

The most affordable Marantz PM6007:

Yamaha A-S701

Brand - Yamaha (Japan).

An elegant model with excellent reproduction of any sound at high power for the most demanding audiophiles. High-quality sound is realized thanks to the ToP-ART circuit design based on a symmetrical design, directly transmitting signals from input to output, and organizing the left and right channels in a symmetrical direct circuit for maximum purity.The internal components are protected by an elegant metal construction with high anti-resonance properties. Equipped with coaxial and optical connectors allows you to connect digital devices. Optimization of electrical connections with increased service life is performed by using gold-plated acoustic terminals.

Price - from 59,990 rubles.

• powerful clear sound;
• wide range;
• smooth adjustment;
• gold-plated connectors;
• digital inputs for Bl-ray disc player and TV;
• verified manufacturer;
• high quality components and assembly;
• concise design;
• excellent value for money.

• no USB input.

Yamaha A-S701 unboxing and listening:

comparison table

	Denon PMA-600NE	Marantz PM6007	Yamaha A-S701
Options:
number of channels	2	2	2
frequency range, Hz	20 - 20000	10 - 70000	10 - 100000
power per channel (Ohm), W	45 (8)/70 (4)	45 (8)/60 (4)	100 (8)/120 (6)
signal-to-noise ratio, dB	105	102	99
harmonic coefficient, %	0.01	0.08	0.019
Channel sensitivity/impedance:
linear input, mV/kΩ	110/30	200/20	200/47
Functions and features:
adjustments	Bass, Treble, Balance, Level	Bass, Treble, Balance, Level	Bass, Treble, Balance, Level, Loudness
additionally	MM phono stage, Bluetooth	MM phono stage	direct connection, automatic power off, MM phono stage, auxiliary connection AC Biwiring
Connectors:
inputs	coaxial, optical x2, Phono	coaxial, optical, linear x4	coaxial, optical, linear x5, Phono
exits	subwoofer, headphones	subwoofer, headphones, linear	subwoofer, headphones, linear
General:
power consumption, W	185	155	270
remote control	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions (WxDxH), mm	434x308x121	440x370x105	435x387x151
Weight, kg	6.8	7.8	11.2

TOP 3 best hybrid models

Xindak XA-6200 08

Brand - Xindak (China).

A versatile model that combines the musicality of tube technology with the powerful drive of solid-state output stages. Powerful ECC88 (6922) tubes provide low distortion, transparent tones, linearity and high resolution. The required output power is achieved by two pairs of Japanese Toshiba transistors in parallel. Power is supplied to the cascades from different windings of the toroidal transformer. In the absence of speakers, a multi-level protection system automatically turns off the sound source.

Price - from 56,900 rubles.

• high power;
• high linearity;
• small distortion;
• natural timbre of reproduction;
• separate power supply circuit;
• multilevel protection system;
• classic design;
• acceptable price.

• few adjustments.

Vincent SV-500

Brand - Vincent (Germany).

Compact model with high-quality sound reproduction in a wide range. The naturalness and warmth of the sound is given by preliminary cascades based on radio tubes 12AX7 and 6H1. The full power of the device is given out by the terminal unit, equipped with 100-watt Toshiba semiconductors mounted on aluminum heat sinks with cooling through the slots in the case. Thanks to the energy-intensive power supply, there are no restrictions in dynamics. Miniature relays provide input switching and can connect up to six different sources - digital (two) and analog (four). The ease of adjustment is well complemented by the remote control, the body of which is made of aluminum. There are various options for use - a set with an active subwoofer and satellites, an addition to a home theater or a traditional stereo.

Price - from 83,520 rubles.

• outstanding functionality;
• convenient management;
• acoustic control;
• optimal damping;
• without excessive contrast in the upper range;
• consistency of harmonics at different volumes;
• adequate reproduction of all musical genres;
• classic design.

• not identified.

Video review Vincent SV-500:

Magnat MA 800

Brand - Magnat (Germany).

An advanced model that combines the advantages of a lamp and transistor element base. Preliminary amplification stages are assembled on the basis of domestic ECC82 radio tubes, selected after warming up for 60 hours. The final stage, delivering up to 110 watts per channel, is based on Sanken transistors. Separate power supply of the channels is provided by a massive toroidal transformer.

Price - 119,990 rubles.

• high power;
• natural airy sound of the middle range;
• accuracy of sound space creation;
• high-quality element base;
• innovative power supply;
• low noise level;
• separate inputs for simultaneous recording of different sources;
• per-channel connection;
• works in the smart home system;
• large insulated terminals.

• overpriced.

Filling Magnat MA 800:

comparison table

	Xindak XA-6200 08	Vincent SV-500	Magnat MA 800
Options:
number of channels	2	2	2
frequency range, Hz	10 - 100000	20 - 20000	6 - 100000
power per channel (Ohm), W	100 (8)	50 (8)/80 (4)	130 (8)/200 (4)
signal-to-noise ratio, dB	93	90	105
harmonic coefficient, %	0.3	0.1	1
Functions and features:
adjustments	level	Bass, Treble, Level, Loudness	Bass, Treble, Balance, Level
additionally		direct connection	MM phono stage, MC phono stage, Bluetooth
Connectors:
inputs	linear x3	coaxial, optical, linear x4	coaxial x2, optical x2, linear x5, Phono
exits	headphones, subwoofer, linear	subwoofer, headphones, linear, trigger	subwoofer, headphones, linear
General:
power consumption, W	350	110	700
remote control	Yes	Yes	Yes
dimensions (WxDxH), mm	430x432x149	430x375x118	433x316x162
Weight, kg	17	10	11.7

Happy listening. Take care of yourself and your loved ones!