$1k, should you go class A or class D? SMSL VMV A2 integrated amp review.

[@cabronesse386]

I love your audio buddies, they make your content more true to life experience and different! Kudos to those guys!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks so much!

[@mrenlightened]

Ended up buying A1 from hifi express thanks to your reviews! I just love the class A sound from my Nobsound 6P1 tube amp with my SA LS3/5a (all caps replaced; soviet tubes). However, I am tired of tube rolling costs and still only getting 2-4 watts of clean power despite offloading most of the bass (90Hz and below) using active DSP into my speedwoofer 10s. Hoping A1 will get me 6-8 watts of clean Class A like sound and remove my minor addiction to tube rolling.

[@jeronronnunkoffunk4691]

Appreciate your diligent testing and transparent reviews, enjoyed the video as always👍🏾👍🏾💯

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I appreciate that

[@marcgabor9690]

My experience with class D is with SMSL DA-8 and Bluesound Powernode. I don't know if I'm imagining things or if it's the synergy of the amp with the built in DAC but I find the power node sounds really good, works well with all kinds of speakers, sounds basically like a solid class ab amp and does a good job with speakers 87db and up. really smooth yet transparent. The SMSL DA-8 I have is a bit more limited and speaker sensitive but the tone controls really bring it to life and XLR in is great for use with a desktop audio interface so you can use the speakers you have instead of buying powered monitors (especially if you aren't mixing).

[@rangerscoach]

If you can get purifi at this price you should. It’s pretty much perfect with most speakers and that can’t be said of class a amps which are pretty finicky

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Do you prefer if I make more comparison videos? Guys, go check out Pearl Acoustics video on the VMV A1, he did a much better job than I did in conveying the excitement of the A1. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a5m1mauGpth8aNk&lc=Ugx3cG4mFfVMqfIGT7J4AaABAg.9UEsdGROhcQ9UEyZhqBEK9 Non-affiliated link: hifi-express.com/products/smsl-vmv-a2-digital-pffb-power-amplifier Coupon code: smsl20

[@ferchizzle]

I just tried the coupon code and it does not work.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@ferchizzle Let me message them.

[@ferchizzle]

@@ThomasAndStereo thank you!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@ferchizzle If the coupon does not work, just email them and they will refund you the coupon value. Plus they are having a black Friday sale.

[@LuxAudio389]

Definitely make more review videos. I like that not only you review the gear, but your friends with different gear and tastes give you their thoughts which you share with your channel. I find that has more weight than just excitement. Plus you have a relevant good stories. For example your review of the CSS speakers that your viewer sometimes preferred over his Wilson's you explained very well. 👍

[@mkshffr4936]

For me class D is the ticket if any of the following are primary considerations. 1. Cost 2. Size 3. Low power consumption 4. Near zero maintenance 5. 24/7 operation. Class AB transistors or class D for subwoofer duty. Everything else is class A tubes with occasional class AB tubes if large room requires it or just for the fun of vintage. I guess it boils down to each critter has its place.

[@CUDAbuster]

Another great review. On the topic of class D, the most abrasive part seems to usually be from the upper midrange to lower part of high- say around 2k hz +/- 0.5k hz. This frequency band usually seems over emphasized on class D, unless you get in the 2,000usd and up price range. So I wheeled my Klipsch Cornwalls out of storage recently and started putting them through the paces with several amps. I hadn't broken in these speakers properly before, so I gave them a heavy workout for a couple days. This made a huge difference in the smoothness and tonal warmth (still a Klipsch though). Anyway, the class AB amps continued to offer a more complete sound signature with almost any genre of music. The Cornwall is a good test platform because of using a horn midrange, very revealing of poorly recorded tracks and amplifier coloration. The class D did seem to push those 15 inch woofers with more of a potent kick drum effect, than did the class AB, but the band width of the low frequency response seemed more full with the class AB, especially on upright acoustic string bass and low male vocals. Completely agree with your assessment, that class AB (A) is preferable on midrange. I paired the Peachtree PreDAC with an Emotiva dual reference amp (which I think is primarily class D, but lists as class H). This gave excellent detail and frequency balance through all volumes- no perceived distortion. Of course that amp is many times the power rating than that of the highly efficient Cornwalls, so only a fraction of the power was applied to max the speaker out (damn loud though). Something like an amplifier which uses class A for mid frequency band and D for bass and treble may be an excellent offering (probably some company already has this). I found that I got used to the sound of class D and like it, but they still seem to filter out some frequency bands (your mind filling in the acoustic gaps), this may in part be why the class D seems more efficient and the class AB seems more organic/live and natural.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice, I would love to try the cornwall too. I think all the class have something to offer.

[@CUDAbuster]

I think you would enjoy the Cornwalls. If anything, they may be the antithesis of the modern audiophile speaker (and that is refreshing). When I A-B test them against typical high-fi towers and bookshelf speakers, they absolutely win out in the enormity of presentation. On critical listening, you will notice that they lack perfect transitioning from bass to mid to tweeter. Yes, it's not that type of speaker, but it doesn't have to be, because you are treated to immense scale and dynamics. This should be expected, because they are quite large, but not that big of a footprint. They tuck in nicely against a wall and need no distance away from the wall. Of all the Klipsch speakers (including all in the heritage line), I like the Cornwalls the best because they have the least dependence on placement and produce the most complete frequency band, i.e the LaScalla lacks lower bass and the K-horns are much larger and very dependent on placement/room configuration). The Cornwalls are also the only speaker I've ever liked better with the grills on, than off (both looks and sound). I have the series 3 Cornwalls. The 4s might be better for some, but since the tweeters and woofers are basically the same in either as are the crossover points, the only real difference is the dispersion geometry of the mid horn. The wider horn on the 4s would not be as functional for me as there would be even more reflection in my untreated listening room with hardwood floors. I've experimented with different horns in that room, so I know this to be factual. Anyway, I hope you can get a pair of either some day and so a review. Still can get the Cornwall 3 new at a lower cost than the new 4s.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@CUDAbuster Yeah I was trying to get some Cornwalls but I guess I am in Canada so shipping is an issue.

[@CUDAbuster]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thomas, have you checked the Canuck Audio Market site? They usually have a lot of good listings there. Hopefully they would be able to ship to you, since it is in Canada (but it might just be a site where people selling or looking for gear list their items).

[@crazyME456]

the sound demo at the end of the video was exactly what i was looking for. the song accentuates the prowess of the a1 and hides its limitations. the a1 has exceedingly airy, crisp and very forward vocals. the vocals were exciting and excellent but there some parts of the song that lacked dynamics and felt underwhelming. in my experience, this will work well for acoustic music, bossa or instrumentals. but not so much for pop, rock, jazz, lofi, house, etc. the a1's limited power shows. forward vocals is also not always a good thing as it can become shouty depending on the song and thus fatiguing. the a2 is also nicely airy but more meaty, full bodied, neutral, balanced and better dynamics. better for whole day listening and a bigger majority of songs. all that raw power is showing its potential. i would definitely choose a2 over a1.

[@endrizo]

and A2,s sub out is vital for me

[@thornwithin6195]

Wow I can't wait to buy one. Thanks for all the wonderful reviews!

[@hansiangng2808]

I am amazed you have the energy to swap in and out 4 sets of speakers including heavy floorstanders just to test the amps.

[@zeissiez]

Haven’t you noticed Thomas is thinner than a year ago?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

That is over many weeks.

[@DrJum]

There is a reason his has kids ;)

[@Audfile]

Curiosity + love

[@JerryM-p2v]

If it is a good quality piece they can all sound good. I have pure class A Sugden amps, and the sound is amazing. I was at a friends house the other day, both systems are in the $80K range. His Belcanto Class D amp was superb. Although his system sounded "manufactured, almost too perfect if you will.

[@floshi6519]

Really interesting video Thomas.

[@decoryder]

Another underappreciated class d option in this pricerange ($899.00) is the NAD C 268. It has a nominal 80 watts into 8 ohms, even though it can deliver much greater power for dynamic swings, a Hypex UCD output stage, and a customized input stage by NAD. It sounds powerful, dynamic, detailed and yet doesn't have any of the 'leanness' in the midrange that one finds on most class d amps; in fact the NAD C268 actually manages to sound slightly warm. The amp is bridgeable, and has single-ended and balanced inputs.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice I should check it out one day.

[@decoryder]

@@ThomasAndStereo Of all my class d amps from smsl, NCORE/UCD and Infineon, the NAD amp is the best in terms of sound signature - it has as you would put it 'meat on the bone':)

[@mikemcnair2026]

Any thoughts on the upcoming NAD c399?

[@decoryder]

@@mikemcnair2026 Yes, I'm quietly drooling over that amp. Ok, I have no clue how the finished end product will turn out, but so far any of the NAD Class D amps, Hypex UcD/NCORE or PuriFy /ET have the custom 'NAD House Sound' due to a very refined, and deliberately designed input stage - a lot of work went into that stage specifically. I'm one of the people who really likes the NAD house sound, and I suspect the same thing will apply to the C 399. Right now I don't see a reason to upgrade my C 268, but if I do it'll be the power amp version of the C 399 integrated. Again, to make it clear: These are the only Class D amps I've owned or listened to which have a 'fullness' to the sound that the other Class D amps sadly lack.

[@thm655321]

I have had the A2 for a couple of weeks now and was waiting for your next video on it to vindicate my purchase decision and you have! Other than an initial issue with difficulty switching to usb I am loving it so far. It is connected via USB to my PC and occasionally a Raspberry Pi 4 and driving the original B&W 805 Nautilus beautifully. If you have not done so, try the SDB EQ setting and see what you think, it's SMSL's patented EQ. BTW you can reset the unit by holding in the front on/off button on the dial while physically inserting the power cord into the back. That fixed my usb issue. That may also work on other SMSL/VMV devices.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha, I had to do the same reset because of issues with USB. Congrats on your purchase.

[@thm655321]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks, loving the unit as a PC audio device that does everything, playing back all my hi-res/dsd files. Must be something in the Toronto water that caused the USB issue (I am in Toronto as well).

[@gklai23]

Great comparison Thomas. For me saving space on a desktop and heat were big reasons why I went for the VMV A2 rather than 2 separates (dac + A1). Have to say that I at my listening volumes the fan doesn’t spin!

[@merlecrandall1709]

At first I didn't have any interest in watching this episode until I seen Harley Lovegrove's video and who's name pops up in the comments, Thomas. So of course I needed to watch your video. I really like Harley's videos. He has this certain way of explaining things. It would be absolutely cool if you could get your hands on a pair of Pearl Acoustics speakers. After watching both videos you both bring something to the table that is good. Thank you for this.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Really appreciate the comment, I did make a dedicated video on the A1 but it is not as interesting as his. Yeah I need to get one of his speaker to test. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h52ZqKGXaat_ncU

[@merlecrandall1709]

Lucky for me then that I didn't see it. Lol

[@endrizo]

A reviewer (in amazon ) said that the A2 needs a sub for freqs under 70hz since its speaker outs dont give freqs under 70hz. 70 is the lower the spkrs outs offer. he was using his old well known tower speakers and not getting any bass under 70hz. . no setting in the menu to fix this. he couldnt get the spkr outs to give freq under 70hz ( the lower setting). thanks

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Maybe he got a defective unit.

[@БорисКренкель]

@@ThomasAndStereo I want to buy a class D amplifier. Which SMSL amplifier is the best in sound? I mean the amplifier itself. It doesn't matter whether there is a built-in DAC or not. I will not use the built-in DAC, since I already have an SMSL su-10 DAC. The price doesn't matter either, since they are all not expensive for my budget. I'm considering SMSL A6, SMSL SA400, SMSL VMV A2. Perhaps there is something else that sounds even better than these three models? Thanks for the answer.

[@RoyFJ65]

check out SA400@@БорисКренкель

[@ferdi9554]

So I got the VMV A1 last weekend and I did some testing vs a class A/B amp with 89 DB sensitivity speakers. Whitout a Dac the A1 sound OK compared to the Class A/B. I would say the clarity of the mid range was better, but the soundstage was much better with the class A/B. Then based on Thomas recommadation I used a DAC and put the volume at 68, then the A1 really started to shine, better soundstage, super crisp vocals, the bass was suprinsgly good. I asked a few people which are not audiophile to give their opinions, most of them preferred the Class A/B, because it was less analytical so easier to listen. But all of them were unanimous that the clarity and quality of the mid range were much better with the A1. We even tried some podcast on youtube (Thomas & Stereo and Andrew Robinson), and we were amazed of the clarity of the dialogs with the A1, way better than the class A/B.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nice! Thanks for sharing your experience. The soundstage of the A1 will open further if you add a tube preamp in the mix. You should take my Freya for a spin.

[@ferdi9554]

@@ThomasAndStereo yes that would be great.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@ferdi9554 call me for it.

[@ferdi9554]

@@r423fplip Yamaha A-S801

[@marcusm5127]

For it's an easy choice 86 dB sensitivity is like pushing a stone wall. I have a pair of infinity SM 150 with 102 dB or something crazy. I think I could power them with the headphone jack.

[@joeygonzo]

102???? That's like Zu territory

[@Sergio83Hi-resAudio]

no, I absolutely disagree! 86db is normal. 80 or less is bad. your Infinity SM 150 doesn’t have 102db, this is nonsense! marketing! sensitivity goes through the bass driver and is taken into account depending on the low-pass filter! You just can’t imagine what 102dB is for a woofer! This is unrealistic given its dimensions and weight of the mobile system

[@Shozimus]

Thanks for the video as usual, and the perspective of others\stories are invaluable to navigate trough the audio world :) Hope for a review of SMSL D2 and D3 sometime in the future :) Enjoying my nearfield setup from Smls M400(great dac - thanks) and DA9 :)

[@820SHAY]

Hi excellent review For ls50 meta A2 class d, will be good?

[@RoyFJ65]

The SMSL SA400 has the same module as the VMW A2 for power and the surprising part is how it manages to drive my NS1000M speakers to all their glory. The amazing part is that here its competing with Yamaha amps like P2200, PC2002M as well as MX-1, all of them outputting 200W+ into 8ohm at less than quarter the size and weight.

[@MickyMouseLimited]

If you really want to run a sub woofer for all this money you will buy a separate woofer amp with a adjustable crossover set point and gain then you can really tune your sound. Once you listen to a classic music concert on a Class D amp and on pure Class A amp at the same power level you will fill the difference. But again not every person is a musician and not every one will buy a class A or Class AB amp . Price to power ratio in Class D is unbeatable .

[@endrizo]

or just get the A2

[@hushpuppykl]

Oh … this is a nice review. Love the comparison!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah I should do more comparison videos.

[@hushpuppykl]

@@ThomasAndStereo … uh huh!

[@cameronkrause4712]

thank you Thomas, I will be using parts express for my smsl purchase.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, you mean hifi express!

[@nc3419]

Slightly laid back but more upper mids energy? Confusing. But if it plays well with the Focals without sounding too bright or forward gives me an idea. I've heard from another this amp has somewhat subdued dynamics that it is expected to have, so maybe that's why it may work with the Focals which are very dynamic?

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

laid backs usually can produce wider and better/clearer movements so prob good synergy, although most would prefer forward/ normal positioning

[@lanx0003]

A2 packs plenty of features/power into a small chasis. Impressive BUT that small fan noise might throw me off.

[@vortextubes]

So excited thinking this is the VTV Purifi review, Thomas. Lo and behold, it's the VMV 😅😁

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have the vtv amp in for review too.

[@vortextubes]

@@ThomasAndStereo can't wait. I highly value your opinion before buying gear

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@vortextubes yeah, I also got the lsa class D amp in for review.

[@soowat1190]

I followed your golden rule, driving a Class D amp with a tube preamp. The sound is fantastic! 😘

[@bigboy9693]

I have a Halcro amp driven by an Icon Audion LA4Mk3. I sold my Krell and my musical fidelity equipment.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I love doing that.

[@mosfet500]

You got it! I haven't found anything better.

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

🤗 THANKS THOMAS…WE APPRECIATE YOUR HONESTY AND THOROUGHNESS AND WE HOPE OTHERS WILL SUPPORT YOUR SOURCES FOR THE BENEFIT TO ALL 🤗🤗🤗 ALSO JUST WANT TO SAY YOUR SKILLS ARE NOTICEABLY IMPROVED 👍 and THE CAMERA QUALITY IS ALSO 👀 WE OLDER ONES LOVE ❤️ THE SLOW PANNING AND CLOSE UP SHOTS …KEEP UP ⬆️ THE GREAT WORK 😍😍😍

[@dragosthule]

great video as always! i love the design of that smsl line. very sexy and modern.

[@nc3419]

A2 sounds less rounded at the top than the A1, which I prefer and without sounding sibilant. Can't tell regarding overall refinement.

[@endrizo]

can the A2 be used without a SUB ? i read a review saying its mains speaker out cut at 70hz needing a sub for lower frequencies. does not have a high pass mode like other smsl amps. is that so? thanks

[@aceofspades6667]

On ZF's last stream he mentioned that many of the amplifiers being advertised as pure class A are false and that many are class A biased but in reality switch to B at a certain point. He included Accuphase in this group all the way up to the E650. He did make a caveat that hp amps can still be class A but almost all speaker amps are in reality AB. Something along the lines of this being a marketing strategy to check hifiers boxes. anway just found that interesting .

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, the A1 is heavily biased into class A but not true class A. As mentioned in the A1 video, it is possible to bias it into true class A with a knob in the amp but heat was the big issue

[@aceofspades6667]

@@ThomasAndStereo thanks Thomas! Loving the channel and content.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@aceofspades6667 Always glad to see you drop by.

[@MegaPete]

Awesome show Thomas l love it and Thomas I scored s pair of Magnapan 1.6 qr they sound amazing you should try and listen to a pair cheers and take care

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Congrats! Yeah, I really like Magnapan.

[@outlaw6313]

Just ordered one to pair with LS50 Meta's, I think it will be a perfect pairing for my nearfield listening. I'll be comparing them to my first gen LS50 Wireless.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

You know the LS50 first gen is hard to beat. I remember putting like $10k electronics to the passive LS50 and I think it barely beat the LS50 wireless. So I am not sure this A2+Meta 50 will reach your LS50 level. Let me know.

[@letsgobrandon6545]

Fun fact. When powering LRS from Dena Pontus, Parasound A23+ sounded really better than Ayima A07. When I assembled high quality blind AB chain and volume match verified with voltmeter, they sound identical to me, my wife, friends and family.

[@petermartin9494]

Blind testing removes your bias.

[@taurus19741974]

So I bought 2 SMSl VMV a2 and both failed after 5 months, 1st with optical input the 2nd as a dead unit. SMSL have poor support which are like robots not human with really bad English... Zero responsibilities from support with zero advice… RMA process took 2.5 months ... This AMP on paper looks pretty amazing but once I compared it with the Marantz 30 is way behind with the audio quality and dynamic clarity of audio with Revel and Focal speakers…

[@Scottlp2]

Saying class A vs class D might be more accurately stated as class A vs class D at this price point given strides in class D amps relatively recently (higher price points best I know)

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

You've gotten more fit, I think. Good job.

[@tpn8402]

So apparently the VMV A2 is a "fully digital" amp and doesn't technically have a dac from what I gather? I honestly don't really understand what this means or how it works but from the Apos product description page it appears that anything plugged into it's analog input would be run through an analog to digital converter. So it seems redundant to pair this amp with an external dac bc you'd be going from digital to analog back to digital again... but i wonder what it sounds like alone vs connected to other dacs? Were you running it straight into it's digital inputs or with a separate dac?

[@nc3419]

It has a built in dac with coax, optical and usb. Don't know the chipset though.

[@TheMachDisk]

Not sure about the exact structure of this thing but a fully digital amp is basically just a high current DAC. Delta sigma or Pwm DACs have an output that is switching like the output of a class D amp just in this case with big transistors that can deliver more power than the little ones in most DAC chips and feedback looping back into the digital so they can use algorithms for filters instead of analog.

[@dominicvalois]

Hi Thomas, I was looking for a small footprint desktop amplifier and one of these should fit the bill. Thanks for another great review!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

You should just borrow mine, I can bring it over.

[@dominicvalois]

@@ThomasAndStereo That's awesome! Thanks!

[@gfsanches1]

Did you compare A2 to Sabaj a30a ?

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

I'd really like to have feedback on this.

[@youtubiers]

I also would like to know

[@lukarubinic4504]

me too..

[@Unker_Spunkanathan]

Pearl acoustic channel just did a review on the A1 and it was a 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks for letting me know, will go check out.

[@Unker_Spunkanathan]

@@ThomasAndStereo I went back to watch it a third time within 24hr😁 I guess I was not just intrigued by the little amp but also the way he presented it...no beating around the bush, no information overload...very concise

[@ivormo4587]

Hi Thomas, I have the Focal 1028 in a room of 16m2. Is the A2 a better match?

[@ferchizzle]

Thank you for doing the review. How does the A1 sound on higher efficiency speakers vs the A2?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

A1 with a good preamp, DAC and sensitive speakers is in another level compare to the A2, check out my A1 video. It is the most surprising amp I have ever tried this year.

[@ferchizzle]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you!

[@ferchizzle]

@@ThomasAndStereo would you ever consider doing a video that compares the A1 to the Schiit Aegirs?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@ferchizzle If I can get my hands on one. Loic prefers the A1 over the Aegir.

[@ferchizzle]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you for writing back! Can you please tell me who Loic is?

[@davidpetersen7091]

Thomas, Well done review. Mr. Pete---------> aging hippie

[@calaf_725]

Just pulled the trigger for A1. My speakers are easy to drive so they should be a good match for this amplifier.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Let me know how does it match your speakers. What speakers again?

[@calaf_725]

@@ThomasAndStereo Fyne Audio F502. My 8w Elekit-tu-8200r tube amp is a good match so i don't expect matching problems with A1. I will update you when i get it.

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

@@calaf_725 How is the combo?

[@calaf_725]

@@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio I like it a lot. In a blind test you would never guess that you are listening to a 10w amplifier. For the Fyne Audio F502 combo i would recommend cables on the warm side of neutral.

[@sapkan7879]

Hi Thomas, I have a pair of Q Acoustics Concept 500. Which integrated that you have tried with them do you think matches them best?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

So far I prefer it with the separates I have tried. Maybe I will try later with the Moon 340i to see.

[@endrizo]

where is the FIRST video on the A2 ?? thanks

[@ferdi9554]

That’s a great comparison, especially with 89 dB sensitivity speakers.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Especially now that you have one! Share your experience!

[@batesadams5539]

Hey Thomas, thanks for the entertaining (and informative) content on your channel. In an earlier video you mentioned receiving three Chinese-manufacturer DACs. Two of these have been reviewed by yourself since then. Is the fact that the third one won't be getting reviewed meaningful? Very curious.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, the third one is a Gustard DAC that I bought, I will not be reviewing not because it is not good but because it is mine and I have no time.

[@batesadams5539]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks for replying. I just typed "Thomas and..." into the KZbin search bar and this little blue train popped up (followed by the clanging sound of a penny dropping) .

[@justanobody4983]

From the sound demo, the a1 plus x8 sounds much better to me. But at $1000, ill save a little more and just get cxa81 then after some time a decent dac.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

The A1 is handicaped by the DAC and Speaker in this demo. Put a good preamp with and sensitive speakers, it can be really impressive.

[@ufarkingicehole]

Thomas... you really have to give the Geshelli j2 ($300) a try. I will ship mine to you to review and cover the shipping if need be. Its unbelievable at its price even when I compared it to $1200 dacs. Its magic is when used with an amp like Crown xls or smsl 0200 What speakers do you have thats a step up from your polk 707s? Enjoyed this video!!! You are a fantastic at telling a stories 👏 😀

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Thanks, I took a look at it and it has ASIO drivers?!! I have sent them an email and lets see what they say.

[@veritas932]

for desk friendly amps, it's for study table use, and I'll have a budget of USD$300. Wouldn't want to spend too much on a study table use speaker system, mainly for background music and youtube videos. For more serious listening, then the hall system comes in and the budget goes up. The use case of desktop amp is to pair with desktop speakers. Problem with desktop speakers: 1. they are very small 2. they placed on desktop , which means that sound will bounced off the desktop, distorting the sound the bottleneck in desktop systems are the speakers, not the amps. So there's no point in having a higher budget for desktop amps. These smsl speakers are neither here nor there. Too expensive for desktop use, and too small for hall use.

[@my2cents395]

Spotted a Fluxion product in your video. I would like to know how it compares. Seems to be an old school type build.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

That is a recently new 6L6 tube integrated amp. It is good and to explain it would require a whole video. Neutral and linear sounding.

[@Boonnn23]

Hey Thomas, would you choose the a2 over the iotavx stack for the KLH model 5?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't know since I did not try driving the KLH with either. Personally I would recommend a bit more power for the KLH.

[@endrizo]

A1 is only 10w per channel.. mmm should have been at least a 45w per ch and included a SUB OUTPUT. ill go with the A2.

[@LuxAudio389]

Thanks for your review. Can you hear the saliva of the singer on the A1?.....I've been meaning to ask you who makes your av rack and what model is it? Tx

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yes but not as clear as hyper detail gear. However it is not that kind of detail that is amazing with the A1, it is the fact that you can hear everything and make out what it is. The A1 is an amp everyone should try in my opinion.

[@LuxAudio389]

@@ThomasAndStereo I'll pick one up then soon👍👏

[@cisco150]

I have treble issues that mess with my head nerves. Would you say this is less harsh or warmer? sound. I think I would like a warmer sound. I’m looking at this DAC the SMSL SU-9 and the SMSL SU-8S, SMSL DO200, LOXJIE D50, LOXJIE D40, SMSL M500 MK2, and the SMSL VMV D1SE or the SMSL SU-9N. I stream music with Tidal and never heard MQA but would like to have. I have an SMSL SP200 Amp with Hifiman Ananda and soon will get Focal Clear or Elex.

[@nc3419]

Is it the extension/added energy of treble itself or the hash/glare of upper mids through the treble region that is of issue? Amps-dacs-phones can either better control or enhance these issues. If it's the glare, it's a matter of swapping to hear which works best at glare control. If the treble region itself, go for the warmest amp-dac-phones combo? I know people where this affects them.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

Would you net be better with an R2R DAC?

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

iwii (or is it iiwi?) channel reviews the SMSL M500 MKii very positively. The MKiii is supposed to be even better.

[@jaytorr6701]

Hi Thomas, which one would you pair with Klipsch 600s?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Darn, that is a very tough one. If you want more bass, the A2. Although I prefer the A1, my only concern is for some people, the pairing might be a bit on the bright side since A1 although have body in the mids is overall 'lean' or 'linear' just like most class A sound.

[@jaytorr6701]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you Thomas! Ever since i saw Darko's Klipschiit video (DAC to Aegir to 600s) I have been fascinating by the potential synergy of Class A and 600s. Would you prefer the Aegir maybe over the A1?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@jaytorr6701 I only heard the Aegir quickly once. Loic who had both the Aegir and A1 preferred the A1.

[@jaytorr6701]

@@ThomasAndStereo That is very interesting as Aegir is 20w. I think SMSL will ve getting my money... Unfortunately I cannot use your link as live overseas.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@jaytorr6701 Yeah no worries. They do ship from overseas and they are having a sale now, might save you 15%

[@Coneman3]

Maybe class D for bass and class A for mid and treble.

[@jasoncool3815]

Sorry Thomas I’ve used a photo of you as my Facebook profile pic,yea it’s weird I know , but shit , you rock Humans wonder why did you change it , Because he’s my favourite KZbinr You rock

[@RigVader]

Forward upper mids and a small fan.. 😬 On a positive note, the fan will convert anyone that does not believe in “break in”, given enough time.. 😜

[@siriosstar4789]

i'm doomed. I'm in the market for a new sound system BUT, ever since i moved out of the USA and gave my original Polk SDAs and my carver magnetic field amp to my son it's been one disappointment after another for six years . unfortunately i'm still comparing my old system to the new ones and every time i hear new speakers and amps i drift off into a semi coma in the shops. i even listened to some fifty thousand € speakers and was semi rude to the salesman with my "pfft" . Help, what to do !

[@froidd758]

Hi Thomas. I'm from Toronto. Is the A1 orderable in Canada without duties?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I think you might have to pay duties, just email hifiexpress, they are having a black friday sale and with the coupon, it should cover the customs. If the black friday sale is over, maybe ask them if they can make an exception for you given you saw my video on it.,

[@thm655321]

Yes free shipping and no taxes/duties but not from Thomas' suggested site. Not gonna say where you have to do your own research on that one.

[@yogiwp_]

Wouldn't the VTV purifi amp a better buy at this price? (if you don't need the extra features)

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I have it in for review. It does not have a DAC and it is a poweramp and not an integrated amp.

[@ahleksi]

@@ThomasAndStereo Given that if I don't need the DAC or pre-amp stage, do you think A2 still sonically superior to Purifi?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@ahleksi No, Purifi is what I mentioned in the video as having solved the class D problem. For me, they belong to the higher end level but they cost a lot more. The only thing is the Purifi amp might not be as dynamic as this A2 but I need to do some serious AB test to know.

[@yogiwp_]

@@ThomasAndStereo Looking forward to your Purifi review. Yeah I'm in the same situation, don't really need DAC or pre. Though a tube buffer might be nice to have.

[@leungkong]

A great review. I’m using SU9+DA9. Should I upgrade to VMV class A or class D? Thanks.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Depends on your speakers.

[@leungkong]

@@ThomasAndStereo thanks a lot for your reply. I’m using KEF iQ10.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@leungkong well it is 88db so if you listen loud, this class A is probably not a good choice. Depends if you want that linear class A sound or not.

[@ekiquantameki7701]

Hello, Could you please write what size your room is? I have seen really big speakers in your films. Thank you

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I don't remember but I mentioned it in this video the exact size kzbin.info/www/bejne/onvckouamJuFjpI

[@mikemcnair2026]

Any thoughts on the upcoming NAD c399?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, I did not know there was one coming.

[@ben23a31]

Maybe one day a true stereo or mono block power amp will make it to their drawing board for us who own a/v receivers or processors. Just a thought... 👍🏽 On the review Thomas

[@kirkengel9880]

VMV A1 = perfect transient response, like Nelson Pass XA25 or Soulnote A1/A2 = lifelike reproduction VMV A2 = audible feedback, like every other global feedback amplifier = being bored

[@marcbrummel8566]

Buuuuu Claas D 😬😁 What about the Bada review Thomas?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Soon soon.

[@AbideinChristSealed]

I'm noticing reviewers conveniently rank product exactly at the price points. Where is the "why is this $1000?????"

[@jayman3575]

ohhh...Do i see a douk preamp in the background on the coffee table?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yup, I explained more in detail on my Patreon channel why people should get it. I will not make a video on it.

[@myronhelton4441]

@@ThomasAndStereo Click links for albums with best sound. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fGfchnSAjNh6mtE kzbin.info/www/bejne/iomlmH1ols-dh9U kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGnKooSJeauoeZI

[@markg4331]

Has anyone had direct experience with HiFi Express refund and shipping policies? According to their site, if the shipper looses the item, there is only a 50% refund. If I return the item due to it not meeting my expecations, 20% is deducted and then 65% of the remainder is refunded (E.g. $260 refund for a $500 item). Not clear if this is indeed the case or if there's issue with 'wording' on the site? I requested clarification via the site messaging, but no one responded. HiFi Express does not seem to be a very consumer oriented vendor?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Did you get an answer? Perhaps try send another email?

[@markg4331]

@@ThomasAndStereo No...no reply. I'll try again. Hopefully there's an explanation for not replying other than indifference to customers?

[@petermartin9494]

Buy from Costco. They are good with returns.

[@backrack01]

Little unrelated... smsl now has a $3000+ R2R DAC.

[@kohnfutner9637]

That's as much as my entire system that I'm happy with and enjoy listening to. 😂 This audio money avalanche never quits. I laugh at the pitiful ones who keep believing to buy more and never happy or satisfied. It's become a comedy show for me.

[@aag1140]

Thomas have you tried bi-amps these two brothers?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No but good idea.

[@lextr3110]

@@ThomasAndStereo did you try ? interested to know

[@pongyang8705]

Hey Thomas, SMSL VMV A1 vs SMSL AO200 vs Yamaha WXA-50 In regard to your own personal taste, does the Yamaha crush the other 2? Thanks.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No, the Yamaha is better on the top end but not bottom end when compared to the A2

[@tpn8402]

@@ThomasAndStereo Interesting.. what do you like better about the Yamaha's topend? And how would you compare A2 to Sprout 100 overall?

[@pharoahamunra]

Thomas here is something funny for you.i got a new dac today rme adi2 dac fs.went to swap out the old one,and broke a cable.here comes the funny part.until the new cable arrrives.i got a 1200$ DAC connected to a 1600$ amplifier.with a 2$ dollar store cable lmao.

[@RennieAsh]

I'm sure it'll sound fine. I have things connected to my system that is audiophile repellant, but it still sounds great. I'll get round to upgrading it "Soon"

[@pharoahamunra]

@@RennieAsh doesnt matter what you got.if you enjoy it that is the most important factor.

[@RennieAsh]

@@pharoahamunra p.s. 3c paper clips as terminal jumpers. I might leave them there just to show off to audiophiles XD

[@pharoahamunra]

@@RennieAsh lmao you should their reaction will be priceless.

[@joeygonzo]

Digitalized amplifier ?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

No.

[@genaishivatov1737]

Here it is, the final point of the audiophile )))

[@peted7619]

Hi Thomas, good comparison and explanation of speaker sensitivity can affect amplifier performance. In an earlier vid you showed a Peachtree Gan400. Will you be reviewing it, or maybe you found it pretty average? I have a Crown XLS-2002,. Prefer the sound over my Parasound Halo, except the Bass on the Crown is a bit lean. Fine if I supplement with Sub!

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah, I will eventually review it.

[@peted7619]

@@ThomasAndStereo Thanks Thomas! I look forward too it! Darko has the only review so far. I like what Class D offers, if only for the Bass!

[@mr.b4444]

Nice review Thomas, It would be wonderful if you could do a review on the SMSL DP5 HiFi Network Music Player. I purchased one a few months ago to just play FLAC files from a USB SSD. Would be interested in your findings compared to mine.

[@endrizo]

can the A2 be used without a SUB ? i read a review saying its mains speaker outs cut at 70hz needing a sub for lower frequencies. does not have a high pass mode like other smsl amps. is that so? thanks

[@RoyFJ65]

No issues here with NS1000M

[@tomekatomek5694]

SMSL VMV A2- tested and not rec.

[@carlosalvarez7445]

How would the A2 compare with the PS Audio sprout 100? I mean, beyond nominal wattage, considering overall performance.

[@malinyamato]

your discount code is invalid.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Email them and ask for one.

[@charleskatz2606]

Wonder why Schitt Aegir is not marketed as "Class A" when they use Class A standing bias.Seems like a lot of quality amps above 30 watts go AB a higher power levels.I wonder what the amounts needed in every day use are (I know a 120 Luxman is 6 watts in pure A for instance)

[@tupuhumuhumunukunukuapuaa3093]

Not much as in, a handful of watts (

[@ThomasAndStereo]

I thought they did market is class A ish in the beginning. I guess they changed it?

[@tupuhumuhumunukunukuapuaa3093]

​@@ThomasAndStereo I thought so too. That was the whole selling point for as long as I can remember.

[@kohnfutner9637]

Whoowh, $500 for those little desktop. $720 for that DAC. Oh my 😳

[@joeygonzo]

lol

[@RennieAsh]

That's nothing. People pay $2,000 for a small piece of copper wire with a bit of silver on it

[@kaifa76]

2:55 same here mate 🙄

[@thegrimmer]

@1:40 Not to probe, but how many showers would you guess most people take in a week? Asking for a friend.

[@bryansu]

hi thomas, u lose a lot of weight...have u been working out a lot carrying speaker up and down the staircase?

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Haha, was on keto diet and I am getting too old to move heavy speakers.

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

15:43 | 16:54

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

After going back and forth between these two through ok headphones, my vote is for the A1. With the A2, I kept waiting for the 'music' to start, if you know what I mean. The 'performance' (ie perforMER) just isn't there like in the A1. If I had sensitive speakers, I'd probably give it a go.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Yeah and if I used a better dac and a preamp with the A1, the performance further improves.

[@ernestyount3061]

I like the information in videos but unboxing no.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

You rather just see my face?

[@tommyov1]

I got burnt by smsl 500 DAC. Sorry won't do it again. I couldn't resell for 100$ and it's brand new

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Sorry for your lost. I never heard the 500 DAC so no idea is it any good.

[@RennieAsh]

What was "wrong" with it? You realise that this can happen with any piece of audio gear.

[@lextr3110]

the discrete headphone amp on the smsl 500 is decent if it would not be for the channel imbalance hehe

[@endrizo]

where is the 1st video about the A2 ? cant find it. thanks

[@V1ralB1ack]

The answer is always class a or ab. Class d is pointless. Ask yourself, have you ever seen a class d headphone amp? No because for a bigger amp and some warmth in the form of heat dissipation you get much better sound

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Nah, the newest class D are no joke.

[@oriorb]

Legitimately almost every headphone amp on the market is class D until you reach a specific price point, and even then the class D options perform incredibly well.

[@andrewlim7751]

After 20+ years in hifi, you'll learn that nothing is absolute, I heard the AE1 paired with numerous Class A tube amp (Jadis) and Transistor Amp (P.S. Audio) without success, and they sound weak, thin and contracted but the most wonderful match was from my friend's house pairing it with an old fisher transistor receiver, the sound stage was open, airy and could even went low, so lesson 1, there ain't golden rule, and I'm used to be a class A freak. 😁

[@ThomasAndStereo]

@@andrewlim7751 yeah, like what i mentioned in my synergy video.

[@andrewlim7751]

@@ThomasAndStereo I guess this is the most important factor, and love your narration, keep up with the gud work. 👍

[@carlsitler9071]

My $70 amp measures better than those $1000 amps (less noise, distortion and color) at least based on Audio Science Review. 300 wpc (150 wpc with my underpowered supply). AIYIMA A07.

[@ThomasAndStereo]

Interesting and tempting at that price. Does it have the typical class D characteristics? What have you compared it to and in what way does it sound better than what you compared it to.

[@carlsitler9071]

@@ThomasAndStereo It is fed by my Sanskrit 2 and Asgard 3 and powers Mirage OM9 towers. To me it sounds like nothing is there but simply has the attributes of the dac and preamp. The speakers are omni-directional so aren't made to be as laser detailed as Focals or B&Ws. Killer base though.

[@wa2368]

Wow, all the Luxmans and Yamahas, etc will now need to close shop because of this 70 dollar miracle measurement amp you've found...

[@carlsitler9071]

@@ThomasAndStereo The A07 isn't as vibrant as my Emotiva BasX A4 but sounds much better than my vintage Fisher receiver and my Onkyo receiver. Obviously, you get what you pay for but with diminishing returns.

[@marcelmolenaar5684]

Not for me .