Iota VX SA3 & PA3 review

[@thebritisher72]

Those aren't "installation" connections. They're for trigger (linking power - switching one, switches the other, on or off) and dimmer control, changing the dimmer with the remote will change both devices simultaneously.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for pointing that out Mike. I miss it. I couldn’t see the text with the naked eye. Which is no excuse as I should have double checked 🤓😪

[@thebritisher72]

Hi Tarun. Now that you've pinned my comment, I realise it comes across as a bit rude. I didn't mean it to be, it was just stream of consciousness. Apologies anyway. Your reviews are excellent.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Not at all Mike. There is a lot to think about and cover in these reviews and despite my best efforts, occasionally I miss something or just plain get it wrong. I am not infallible. I am glad you pointed it out 👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi MK, I know but if I miss something then it is important that I do my best to correct it.

[@Coneman3]

No one is perfect, no need for your comment imo. Tarun is doing a great job.

[@bobdupuy5910]

Great review. I like the way you and Sean break down your reviews into many facets. I have the IOTAVX SA3 driving Triangle Borea BR03's (per Sean). I have found that once I added the Topping D90 MQA DAC, that "wooly" bass has strengthened and tightened up nicely.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Bob. Look like you have put together a nice system 😉👍

[@bobdupuy5910]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks to my KZbin mentors.

[@felixlaboy1453]

Bob Dupuy Bob May I ask how do have the Toping DAC connected

[@bobdupuy5910]

@@felixlaboy1453DAC inputs: digital streamer-USB, cd player-Digital Coax. DAC Output:RCA Analog out to a tube buffer preamp. tube buffer outputs to IOTAVX SA3 High Level Input #3. So I have functional volume controls on both the tube buffer and on the IOTAVX. D90 is set up as a DAC only, which is prefered, so its "preamp" and volume control do not get involved.

[@felixlaboy1453]

Bob Dupuy Thank you very much I appreciate the info can’t wait to get mine

[@jaytorr6701]

PS. I thought Sean from Zero Fidelity was really good at describing sound. I think you might have surpassed him. You are not giving generic terms, you provide concrete examples of how sound is perceived. Quite impressive.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Jay, that is very kind of you to say. Sean does an amazing job! He is one of two guys that inspired me to start this channel. The other being Steve Guttenberg.😉👍

[@felixlaboy1453]

A British Audiophile one thing I love is that you did a PA3 possible using it without the SA3. Something the other guys would not consider talking about for some strange reason. hmmm 🤔 But I’m so glad that your dad out of curiosity why DAC would you recommend for Around $500 US for the PA3

[@jaytorr6701]

@@felixlaboy1453 I think a 500 dollar DAC might be an overkill for the P3. At least that is what was recommended to me, that it is not detailed enough to present an audible difference from a much better DAC, so I got the topping E30. Might worth the try though, might borrow some better DACs to try and see for myself.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Felix. I think you can’t beat the Chord Mojo but it isn’t really intended for desktop users and is a bit of a pain to live with if you need to use more than one input. I also like the Project Pre Box S2 designed by John Westlake.

[@felixlaboy1453]

Jay Torr Thank you I’m trying to see what my options would be as a preamp for the PA3 if I decided to get without the SA3

[@hugobloemers4425]

Very nice review which kind of reminded me of what Paul from PS Audio said on one of his videos and that is how difficult it is to make an integrated amplifier. That also leaves me with one more question. How does it sound if you use the SA3 as preamp only in combination with the PA3 used as only power amp for left and right channels? It may be a bit academic but I am just curious. Pithy, they did not make a little control cable to have the lights and power on function of the PA3 follow the SA3. Perhaps they really did not intend this to be a combo in the first place.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Hugo, I didn’t try the SA3 as solely a preamp. I don’t suspect it will represent good value @£400 as solely a preamp. Better to bi-amp if your speakers allow. In fact as long you don’t need to drive large speakers of fill big rooms with sound I prefer the bi-amp configuration to the bridged mono configuration. Actually, there is a control cable which allows you to dim the PA3. I didn’t realise until one of my viewers who has the combo pointed it out. My bad, I simply got that bit wrong. There is no excuse really but it wasn’t very clear to me that you could do this.

[@hugobloemers4425]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 I can see that, personally I think bridge amps are best reserved for car audio. No harm done on the control cable. The only way to be never wrong is to do nothing.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Hugo 👍

[@davidcheung6748]

Nice job

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you 👍

[@sarangankarunagaran2248]

Sir,the bluetooth dongo in the box

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

There wasn't one in mine. It is optional, I believe 😊

[@khalid969]

I like your grading system. There's nothing more frustrating than trying to figure out how much a reviewer really likes a particular component since all reviewers only review components they like.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thanks Khalid. That was entirely the point. 😉👍

[@robininterstellarlabel824]

Great review. I own this combo and have been listening to it for the last 2 months now. It improved every day, it needs some time. With the Dynaudio Evoke 20 speakers, and Technics SL1500C or Bluesound Node 2i with Tidal as a source, the soundstage is really bigger than between the speakers. I have had a lot of amps, vintage and new, but this is the least fatiguing amplifier ever. Due to my work and hobby, I spend (critically) listening to music over 10 hours a day, and with this IotaVX-combo I can actually do so. Love it!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Robin, thank you for sharing your experiences with these amplifiers. 😉👍

[@sebastianpolcyn6358]

I really appreciate how thorough your reviews are. You break everything down in such a detailed and relatable manner that it really gives me the impression that I can "picture" the sound of the gear in my mind. Great job!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Sebastian 😉👍

[@thomasandersen1784]

As always, a very competent review, from one of the most likable "selfmade" Audiophiles on-line ;-) Keep up the good work! Cheers from Denmark

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Thomas. I appreciate that 😉👍

[@evowhite777]

"Hoped I liked your review".....ah man LOVED IT!!! #hifi4ever

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you ev 😉👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Sorry everyone, comments had been switched off by KZbin as I had selected suitable for kids when uploading the video using their new interface. You should be able to comment now.

[@bigblueocean]

You goon. 😉

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

What more evidence do you need that I figure this gig out as I go along 😂

[@johnsweda2999]

Have you had any experience with the meridian 5000 active speakers ? there's a pair of 5000 speakers I can get for £700 mid90s it's a bit of a drive away so I'm not sure if I should bother or not? And I'm not sure about price seems a bit pricey. You're not using the trigger wire between the two amps ? I would have thought if you using the trigger wire you should be able to do them both with the one operation Don't worry about single sub you can get a splitter RCA to 2 better still a mini DSP and you can run 4 subwoofers or more. What I haven't seen I'd like to see is the iota power amplifier using a valve preamplifier running 2 power amplifiers should be a good combination you got a valve preamp can you not try that combination in Bridge combination and non Bridge combination. What you're saying between 2 and 5 kh having the valve preamp should sort this issue out and greater airiness. Considering the power amps about £299 maybe discount if by two, could be a great combination but I'd like to hear it first !! I was thinking even a feliks audio headphone and pre-amplifier is about £600 could be a good combination for a cheap budget system, they are highly recognised their headphone preamplifiers for headphone probably second to none endorsed by focal what they use. I have heard review that they take a long time to burn in becomes more of a relaxing sound and maybe pushing the amplifiers for a week full volume and see how it sounds then

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thanks John. I haven’t heard a pair of Meridian actives in years. I wouldn’t take a punt unless you know what you are getting.

[@johnsweda2999]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 yes I would drive up there and see them first. What about trying that combo with the valve amp can't give it a go!

[@svx94]

Great review again! They little details when configured the pair differently were great insight that many of us are looking for, and lacking from other reviews. Seems others have already asked further review, which can be a great topic for next. Would be more interesting when you have a chance to review and compare this pair with Emotiva, and Marantz PM7000N. I think they are all in the same price range.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Raphael, thank you for your support. I am planning to audition more amplifiers at this price point. Let’s see what I can get hold of. 😉👍

[@davethornley1955]

There is a review comparing this with the Emotiva and the IOTA wins quite easily

[@jaytorr6701]

I completely agree the P3 sounds better than the S3. I had the S3 but swapped it with the P3 plus the topping E30 DAC. Inspired by the Klipschiit system Darko put together, not having an integrated amp. Using mac mini as source. I think the improvement over the Wolfson DAC that the S3 has, plus the reduced noise not having a pre amp and DAC in the same box, make a significant difference. For 299 pounds is probably the best audiophile grade amp money can buy.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Looks like you have put together a fine system. I agree the internal Wolfson DAC drops the performance of the SA3 down a bit. It is good to get you going but you want an external DAC for a couple of hundred £s to get the most out of the amp. If you don’t need the connectivity get the PA3. It does sound a little better than the SA3.

[@zetapal]

I ordered the P3 yesterday to be an extension off my Harman Kardon AVR 335 to drive my new NHT C3's as mains. I was looking to add the SA3 later to complete the setup. Now I'm thinking I'll just get another P3 and run something like a Schiit Saga+ as the preamp. It has a nice resistor attenuator and a single tube buffer which can be switched in or out of the signal path. Then maybe a nice DAC. Thanks guys !

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi zetapal, sounds like a good plan 😉

[@CM-dw3gh]

Hi Jay. Can I ask what input you used on the P3 for the DAC. I'm guessing the pre out inputs. Cheers

[@TheCrisimos]

When someone goes on youtube and is looking for a review on gear that might work well with his current system or match his taste, this is exactly what he'd hope to find. Thank you Tarun!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank Chris. That is what I hold foremost in my mind when I do these reviews 😉👍👍👍

[@chaindrive98]

Loved the balanced review of this combo. Very clean and neutral, just like the IOTAVX I guess :) Anyways, I noticed the power cords were quite thick - are these from the manufacturer? I listen to a lot of bassy, baritone voices like Leonard Cohen. Looks like I must opt for the combo, instead of just the PA3. Any thoughts?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Narendran, the Power leads are my own diy leads. They did improve the sound a little over the standard ones. I made a video on them. Here is the link... kzbin.info/www/bejne/nZe5ipl5a9mgmcU Thank you for watching and your support 😉👍

[@JH-ty3ic]

I'm not the only one who wants to hear about 2 x PA3 with a separate DAC pre-amp.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

May make an interesting follow up video 🤔

[@elemer9917]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 That would be awesome! I'm interested if 2 PA3 bridged was the best combo you can get with these components. I've a low sensitivity (85dB) Elac speakers so I assume I need the power of one of the combos.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi elemer99, my ProAc’s are 85 dB and the SA3 drove them okay. However, it struggled with the ATC also 85dB. It depends on the size of the room, how hard you listen and how low the impedance drops of the speaker itself. If you have the UB5’s it may struggle as their impedance drops below 4 ohms. Should be fine with the debut’s.

[@multaymartay]

I run 2 x PA3's as mono into bi wired qa 3050s with a rega mira as a preamp... The SA3 will be with me next week so it'll be interesting to hear the difference.

[@spunkthecombo]

It would be interesting to hear 2 x PA3 and the SA3.

[@martybousum1010]

I own both the SA3 & PA3. I absolutely love them in my room with my speakers. Best I've ever had. I am continually amazed at the musicality, and the accuracy of their play. Thanks for your thoughts.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences Marty 😉

[@felixlaboy1453]

A British Audiophile Hey Marty May I ask what speakers your using with the IOTAVX

[@martybousum1010]

I pulled the trigger on the SA3/PA3 combo and have never looked back. One of the smartest decisions I have ever made in my pursuit of great sound at prices I can afford. I did the SA3 first, then after deciding on some new speakers (87DB @8ohms, close out special from GR Research) I snagged the PA3. Speaker cables from Blue Jean Cables, and the Audiolab 6000CDT. The SA3 has a great DAC which saves on some money, AND contributes to great audio. I also recommend the Bluetooth Dongle. It opens up music/movies on the internet. Ian, at IOTA is a straight up solid dude who cares about his customers. My units arrived in 3 days from the UK, packaged more adequately than necessary, which shows great care. I have reached the end of my pursuit. You can add a subwoofer if you need it, but for me, I'm still toying with that idea. Dude, if I was near you, I would let you hear my rig. Brits know audio!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Marty, thank you for watching and sharing your experiences with these amplifiers 😊👍

[@GameEscape]

Great review. I really enjoy how you open these products up and explain the components inside. Keep these coming!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you buddy. Great to hear from you 😉

[@bigblueocean]

I would have very much liked to see a pair of the power amps used as mono blocs.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Big Blue, that would be interesting 🤔

[@richclips]

Yes I agree fully, if the two products sound different, then I don't like the idea of one being used for one channel and the other for the remaining channel 😱 a pair of the power amps makes sense, full setup for £1000 :)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi richclips, the differences are there but not dramatic. I can see why that may be appealing though 😉

[@ThanosPapachristou]

What about bi-amp with two power amps and another pre-amp/dac? You also said that it becomes a bit shouty when you turn up the volume... So a loudspeaker with sensitivity >90 db would be preferred...

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Would be worth investigating 😉

[@johan5660]

Great review and excellent insight of the amplifiers. Well & thoroughly explained 👍👍👍👌 I am hoping Iota can make a class AB pre-power system that outputs 200W into 8ohms and roughly doubles into 4ohms. A pre-prower combination may perhaps elimanate all the caveats that Tarun is saying here about these two SA3 & PA3 combos. When a 200W into 8ohms pre-power is out from IOTA then its probably time for me to get atc floor standing speakers..😁👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Johan. Iota are working on some new products. Thank you for sharing 😉👍

[@jackstraw1756]

I’ve had this combo now for over 2 years now. It is solid for my current needs. I’ve slowly been upgrading and am confidant the last thing to upgrade will be this combo.

[@georgedomse]

I've been using the SA3 with a number of different speakers over the last month, and I must honestly say I couldn't name another integrated in this price category that is so well balanced and fits so many speaker characters. It's not fussy, even choosy speakers will come along nicely with it. Sure it has its limits, but in this price bracket the SA3 is a winner.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

It certainly is a very good amp for the money 😊

[@fts81]

Great video. Honest, thorough, informative. You’re definitely unlike other reviewers, I’ve been learning some electronics as well! Keep it going!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Felipe. Comments like your’s is what makes doing this worthwhile 😊👍👍👍

[@fts81]

A British Audiophile, thank YOU for your great channel

[@terryhk99leung36]

Really appreciate your effort in commenting the different scenarios of using SA3 alone, PA3 alone and as a combo. Particularly the fact you specific the trade off between the different scenario.. methodical and clearly commented.. Keep up the great work and wish you the continuing success in your future video .. Again.. great video. this is my 3rd times watching so I feel I am obligated to let you know how much I enjoy and rely on this.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Terry. Very kind and much appreciated 😊👍

[@mancunianlee]

Brilliant comprehensive review, the 12v triggers are for trigginering a second zone, projector screen etc.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Lee 😉👍

[@eliorteza535]

Paired with PSB Alpha P5, excellent!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Great 😊

[@F105Thundr]

Really good review. Breaking them into three categories was def a huge plus and from what I can tell left out of most all other reviews. Great job! Thanks.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you FlyRc. Much appreciated 😉👍

[@jimdavis5230]

In bridge tied load the power will increase but the damping factor will halve which explains the changes in bass speed and quality. Also it would be interesting to try passive bi-amplification with the SA3 driving the tweeters and the PA3 driving the bass / mid drivers. I recently converted my system to bi-amplification which gave a large improvement in clarity and sound stage.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Jim, I did briefly try the SA3/PA3 in bi-amp mode and I noticed an improvement in soundstage and bass control. Thank you for watching and commenting 😉

[@jh0720]

You’re a fantastic reviewer. First audio review channel that doesn’t make me feel like they’re a shill

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Jonathan. I greatly appreciate your support. 😊👍

[@dangriffiths123]

Great review. I have SA3 + PA3 combination with REL T/7i sub, really happy with the sound. Found an issue with the hi level input in this combination, when the Iota goes into standby mode the sub buzzes loudly! Using low level now, is this something you experienced? Hi level worked fine on my class d amp.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Daniel, I used the high level with my Rel Strata III. I didn’t experience that issue. There is some noise bleeding through from the amps in standby mode. I would email Iota and see what they say. In the interim at least the low level input works fine.

[@AKelly-wd4lj]

Great review! I bought the SA3 and loved it! Now I've puller together enough cash for the PA3. It arrived today! However... after hooking it up I've noticed a buzzing noise, when paused, on the left channel (the PA3 channel). I'm sure this isn't normal, but I wanted to run this by you before I reached out to IOTA. Did you experience anything like this? Could this be a fault with the PA3? Thanks!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you AK. I didn’t experience that issue with the ones I reviewed 😉👍

[@AKelly-wd4lj]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 strange the problem only seems to appear when using the extension port 🤔 thanks for your response!

[@Constantin1020]

As always, great Review, you are officially my favorite hifi rewiewer on KZbin. Yesterday I Was at work and I got a notification that you uploaded a Video and I thought to my self "great, I got something to whatch tonight. Whatching your Video is like a TV Series 😄, got my Drink, my snaks and just enjoy. My Wife is a bit jalous becouse im Not Whatching something with her 😬😄 Keep up the good work my Friend Greetings from Austria

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Constantin. Always a pleasure to hear from you. I think my wife and your’s should compare notes 📝😂

[@colinday645]

Could the PA3 be used to drive left and right channels on a AV receiver for more improved sound regards 2 channel music? Anyone done this and thoughts as it seems ideal at £299?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Colin, you could use 2 PA3’s each in bridged mono mode as long as your receiver has pre out for the front channels. I think you will be better off getting a multichannel power amp as normally you want the same power amp on all three front channels, left, right and centre. 😉

[@bearded_wolverine3503]

Ive heard horro stories about this company's poor customer service and service, along with issuing refunds, which is why I've avoided them entirely

[@robmills537]

Hi Tarun that was a great review I was impressed with your honesty about not giving bad reviews to products you don't rate very decent of you. 👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Rob 😊👍

[@ryanmcdermott8142]

Would like you to do a review of the reisong a10 to see what you think. Your reviews are much more in depth. Excellent job.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you ryan. I am not familiar with that one 😉

[@ryanmcdermott8142]

It’s a really inexpensive tube amplifier from China which has had good reviews but would be really interested in what you think.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thanks for clarifying Ryan. I will look it up 😉

[@danielbrown2715]

Good review, however it would have been interesting if you had tried them in bi amplified mode rather than bridge mono. Bridge mono usually causes impedance problems for the amp under difficult loads frequency dependant of course, bi amplified ( one amp for high frequency driver one for bass mid unit would probably have given much better results on amps at this level.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I did try them in bi-amp mode and the bass tightened up a bit as well as a little bigger soundstage. However, I mainly listened in bridged mode as I suspected that most people buying the combo would want/need the extra power to drive more difficult speakers or fill bigger spaces. Thank you for watching and commenting Daniel 😉

[@williamzame3708]

I have read/listened to a number of reviews of the SA3 and PA3. This is BY FAR the most informative review. Thank you.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you William. Your support is very much appreciated 😉👍

[@DW-ue3fs]

I like the way you do reviews ,keep it up. I had the Cambridge Cxa81 for a week and I found the treble was a bit too forward for me ,so I sold it and the choice was either the itoavx or Denon PMA 1600ne. I bought the Denon and I'm happy with the neutral warm sound, which made a better fit for me.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you D W. Sounds like you have put together a nice system 😉👍

[@RedPMD]

I got an AudioLab 6000A with KEF Q150 speakers for my small 3x3m room I also have a Denon X2700H with Bowers Wilkins 606 S2 Anniversary speakers for my 4x8 living room.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Cool 😎

[@NiSHAN256]

Amazing review!!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Albeshr 😉👍

[@zizou6509]

hello from France have you tried this amp combo IOTAVX with Magnepan LRS? The result is said to be perfect. thank you !

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Cool 😎

[@scottbennett3119]

Great review! 3D layering front to back, where can I find that in a sub-$2000 integrated amplifier? Can you point me to some units I can investigate that have 3D qualities? Thanks..

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. Check out my review of the Cambridge Audio AXA 35 🙂

[@rich7049]

Excellent review, thank you for taking the time to put it together. This is the fourth or fifth KZbin review I’ve watched on this product and it was the best of the bunch IMO. You have a very informative style, and you come across as knowledgeable and, really important to me, objective. I am in the market for new components so being able to get information is critical when you can’t actually audition the product before you buy. Thanks again for your efforts. I have subscribed.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Rich, very kind of you to say. I am in the process of completing a review on the Audiolab 6000A and will be comparing it to the Iota VX SA3. Not long to wait now 😊👍

[@claudec2588]

The SA3, PA3 combo was at the top of my list. But now I've become curious about Roon. On the Roon website IOTAVX is not one of the components listed as, "Roon Ready". Can you tell me what I would need to do to use Roon with the IOTAVX combo?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Claude, I don’t use Roon. I use the Auralic Lightning DS platform. I would send Iain at Iota an email 😉

[@vicg5323]

Why use the combo if the top component does more?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Vic, only if you need the extra power to drive difficult speakers or bigger rooms.

[@vicg5323]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 thank you.

[@peterseaman9542]

Folks - if your speakers are rated 8 Ohms - do try connecting the SA3 to the PA3 in 'normal' stereo mode so both pair of speaker cables in to the PA3 and the both little switches on 'stereo' - i found this configuration produced an all-round better sound-stage, with better bass depth and clarity than the 'mono' bridged mode as shown in all these videos and in the manual. If you don't really need the extra watts to your speakers - mine are 88db - then give this normal configuration a go - you may be surprised.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for sharing 😊

[@gamerone6141]

Excellent review, as befits you who are a professional in this field, everything is thoroughly and expertly explained, quality, connection, advantages of one component and pluses and minuses when both are connected, purity, depth, width of the stage and subtle details - sound performance .The only thing missing from this channel, which I have been following for a while, is the sound presentation; it doesn't have to be long, it could be short and it would show everything you explain. This way, everything is somewhere "in a cloud in your head".. Greetings

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you kindly 😊👍

[@DeSoLaToR22]

Hi, REally enjoyed the review! I'm looking for a new Amp myself and this one looks very appealing to me! I have the Rubicon 6 Speakers. Do you think it's a good combination with the IotaVX SA3 + PA3?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you. It should certainly drive them it will be a question of tonal balance and refinement which you can only tell by trying 😊

[@brnogahr4599]

any idea what the internal DAC sounds like? the total SA3 price didn’t suggest high quality DA, and there’s no USB input, so I didn’t check it out on my SA3-PA3 stack. I did compare Schiit Multibit and Audioquest Cobalt DACs. The Cobalt sounded shrill at the upper end, but the Schiit Multibit sounded listenable, so that’s what I’m using. Another thought - the instruction manual isn’t great - not entirely clear how to connect the units, and minimal advice as to how to coordinate dimmer and power functions

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I agree Brno Gahr. The internal DAC is okay but drops the performance level quite a bit. Just good enough to get you started. Get an external DAC to get the most out of the amps. Thank you for sharing your experiences 😉

[@zetapal]

look for Zero Fidelity's review of this stack, he shows exactly how to hook the cables up.

[@philipslighting8240]

Output transistors need a heatsink. No Shit Sherlock.......

[@andriuszelvys3189]

Hi, great review. Could You tell which amp would You recommend more, used Hagel h90 or iotavx sa3+pa3 combo? And why? They are similarly priced at the moment but there is a significant difference in power. It would be paired with triangle br03 speakers.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Andrius. The SA3/PA3 will play louder but the H90 is in a different league for refinement and overall sound quality 😊👍

[@alexharrison3287]

Great video 😎. I just had one thought when watching this - given that these two have slightly different sounds, when using them together as two mono blocks, wouldn’t the sound from each speaker therefore be subtly different making the system sound a little off? Just a thought 😎

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Alex, you a right. In bridged mode you are effectively using 4 channels to drive 2 speakers. The signal is running through a lot more circuitry and I suspect this has probably impact on the sound quality than the differences between the SA3 and PA3.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi behexen250, what I meant was that in bridged mode the the signal is now passing through four channels, effectively doubling the voltage, as opposed to two when you are just using the Iota SA3 or PA3 on their own.

[@christopherhasty8697]

The lights dim on both of mine at the same time.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Christopher. I didn’t realise at the time that you could use a trigger cable to connect between the two to get both the dim together. Thank you for watching and commenting 😉

[@rlkoller8606]

who knew audio devices and their environments had such nuance? I enjoy listening to music as much as the oxygen I breathe. Beginning in early 2021 I set out to replace an aging mediocre A/V system. Sadly heading out to a brick-and-mortar store to compare components has long since been a thing of the past so I turned to KZbin. My first decision was to focus on creating an analog system, playing vinyl records and an occasional compact disc, this was important to me. "At this price point" is a common mantra that quickly sent me into sticker shock, I thought my budget was generous however it's shocking someone could spend upwards of the amount for a new luxury automobile. I choose the IOTA combo, re-foamed and re-capped vintage Infinity loudspeakers, and the Fluance turntable. Much thanks to you @A British Autophile, PS Audio, and Zero Fidelity for well-balanced opinions and guidance, cheers.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences my friend. Your support is greatly appreciated 😊👍

[@milesdufourny4813]

Tarun, thank you for the excellent review. I was considering getting the PA3 for my desktop system with a Schiit Vali 2 preamp/headphone amp and a CHORD MOJO. I think your review clinched it for me. Which speakers besides the Buchardt did you use during the listening sessions?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Miles, it worked well with the Buchardt S400s and y Proac 1SCs but the ATC SCMs 19s highlighted their limitations. Thank you for watching and commenting 😉👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thanks Fat Rat. I suspected as much but wasn’t sure.😉

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Fat Rat 😉

[@nc3419]

Any thoughts how the Iota combo performs in SQ compared to an Audiolab 8300A integrated which I believe you have heard in the past? Thanks for any feedback.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

N C I want to get the 8300A in for review to make sure but i believe it to be a level up in performance 😉

[@rajeshgill1780]

Great review Tarun! I have owned the combo for about a year now thanks to Sean of ZF's review. Been extremely happy with them. Have them Paired to a pair of ELAC B6.2. I do wish to upgrade on the speakers some day. Just wondering did you use your Buchardt S400 as seen in the back ground to base your review on? Thinking of the Buchardt S300. Into the 4th month of owning the pair, my SA3 stopped working and had to send it back to IOTA (from Singapore). Ian sent a replacement all within the week! No different than having a local dealer id say. In all have been happy with IOTA.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Rajesh, I did try the SA3 with the S400. It was okay but the the SA3 is not resolving or powerful enough to get the most out of the S400s. I haven’t tried the S300s but they are not the easiest load and I suspect the SA3 may struggle. I would go for something like the Elac Debut Reference. Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences 😉

[@billmuertos]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 What about the SA3 and PA3 stack for the S400's?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

@@billmuertos good power but you really should get something with better resolution and refinement to get the best out of the S400s 😉

[@leonidasharbalas8758]

Hi Tarun i have the the vx sa3 and the pa3.I am very happy with the sound (your review was on the money)and i am thinking to add on more pa3 as a monoblock.What is your opinion about that?Thank you.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I didn’t try that option but I suspect that may sound very good. Please let me know how you get on 😊👍

[@revamp777]

Not surprised the iota vx bass is ,, woolly,, you live in a church the reflection going on just from your voice would make reviews almost impossible so much return in that hall , no can't be done .

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

It is not my room Paul but the 3.5mm to USB C conversion needed to film on my iPad 😉

[@revamp777]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 mmm

[@revamp777]

When you going to tell people the truth about ,Power cables , USB cables , directional cables , RCA with arrows etc... Chord selling £450 USB cables when you know very well it's data one and zeros £1 cable is the best, when will you tell people the best way to connect speaker cables is bare wire to the terminals . .........

[@revamp777]

How can an expensive power cable with IEC plug be better than my mains plug wired straight to the transformer ie pioneer A400 ?

[@revamp777]

Tell the the truth about the snake .

[@seb250cr]

Hi, I have a decent pair of speakers I love and I'd like to upgrade my system with a better ( dedicated stereo) amplifier. Do you think that amplifier is a good choice ?

[@IRQ1Conflict]

What speakers?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Sebastian, it depends on a lot of factors (taste, partnering equipment, room, setup, etc.) but it will work well with a lot of speakers and is a very good amplifier for the money 😊👍

[@seb250cr]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 thank you very much for your kind answer. I will choose this one, I think it will be excellent with my speakers . They have very good treble and middle with very good deep bass . Thanks. 👍👍👍

[@been1414]

In your experience, did the SA3/PA3 combo produces significantly more heat than the SA3 alone? I’m finding the combo stack gets quite warm to the touch after 30-40 minutes of listening. Thanks for the great review!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Been1414, the transistors run hot in both modes. I didn’t notice much difference. Thank you for watching 😉

[@HowieHaigh]

Isn't there both a power trigger and dimmer link for both devices? Check the rear panels!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Actually there is. Thank you for pointing it out. I should have picked that up but could not read the text with naked eyes. Must be getting old 😪

[@marineboy6033]

I’ve only just found your channel - I’m really enjoying it - interesting products and insightful commentary - I don’t always agree but that’s the wonder of hifi in the sense it uses great technology based on solid science, but delivers a subjective music “product” with variance in clarity, colouring, detail, timbre etc etc….infinite opportunity for a discussion!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you my friend. I appreciate you watching 😊👍

[@55rimshot]

Tarun, I really enjoy your reviews on hifi amplifiers. I have a Naim Uniti in use at the moment and I wonder if you have ever reviewed Naim hifi. It would be great to see a review of the company’s products as I’m considering buying a NAP 250 power amp to improve the performance of my Uniti.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Geoff. I haven’t got a contact for Naim as yet. When I do, that will be top of my list 😊👍

[@JimboJA]

Have had the SA3 and PA3 combo for about 6 months now and must confess that the combo definitely gets better with time. I find the speed has improved the most. The control in the lower ends is amazing. The top end is tight and not too bright...you are aware it is there without it being intrusive. I will certainly place the combo in the Outstanding category. Maybe my MA Silver 300s have something to do with it.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

They are certainly very good amps for the money. Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences James 😊👍

[@laika25]

Is the dac on the sa3 reliable? Decent?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I am sure it is reliable but the performance is not as good as the amp 😊

[@laika25]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks

[@MaxZappa1]

Hi Tarun, unless I have misunderstood this review, it looks like you have listened to the SA3 in isolation, the SA3 and PA3 in bridged configuration and the PA3 from a Chord MOJO as a pre-amp. However it is not clear whether you have tried the SA3 and PA3 as a simple pre-power combination i.e. non-bridged. Therefore, I have to ask, would using the SA3 as a standalone pre-amp into the PA3 offer sonic benefits over the bridged connection, despite their obvious differences in power output?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I didn’t try that combo. You would be better off of getting a dedicated preamp if that is what you want to do. Most of the money is in the amplifier section of the SA3 😊

[@bshah4831]

Terrific review. Easy to understand and engaging!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank buddy. Great to hear from you 😉👍

[@thisisnev]

The idea of upgrading an SA3 by adding a PA3 shows original thinking, and it's a very attractive proposition for people on limited budgets. It's a pity, though, that in some ways it alters the sound for the worse. Hopefully IotaVX can address this in a v2 model.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Good point buddy. I suspect the noise floor increases slightly in bridged mode as you are connecting the speakers across both channels of the amp, effectively doubling the voltage but also passing the signal through additional circuitry. In bridged mode using four channels instead of two.

[@tastemaker_87]

Thanks for the review. Spec wise, this looks similar to the "fairly old, not yet vintage" Arcam Alpha 7R. Similar power rating, large toroidal transformer and option of pairing with a power amp (the 8P) The Arcam was less pricey than the iota although I would guess rivals in performance. I can confirm the Alpha range also sounded uncoloured and impressive detail for a budget amp.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I remember those amps but never took a look inside. Thank you for sharing 😉

[@lynnpoole7830]

Wow, those transformers look very impressive. Class A-B is great. I'm not a class D fan. Nice review.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Lynn 😉

[@Palorte]

Great Job on your reviews ion general, a small disagreement if allowed, i understand the position of a reviewer about no negative feedback on product . . .. but i do believe and see it as a disservice to consumers when you run across a product that is just "not dignifying", and maybe give a small heads up to We The People, and a couple of recommendations to a small or a newer manufacturer in terms of ways to improve their product, that way you become an asset to the manufacturer and a complete reviewer that also stands for the benefit of consumers. I also understand media uses consumers as a "product" to be manipulated, guided, influenced, etc, etc, BUT . . . . because i respect you, and admire your reviews, i have to tell you what i think so you could distance yourself from the media nonsense that abounds today, as I believe you are not one of their trolls. Please take this with all my respect, sincerity and admiration, it is meant with my best intentions at heart.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Gonzalo. I absolutely take it as constructive criticism. I try my best to be fair and balanced in my reviews. There is not much to criticise in the PA3 given it’s price. On reflection the SA3, I don’t think the DAC is up to scratch. I wish manufacturers would not just bolt on DACs for convenience. Better to charge a little more and have a decent DAC that isn’t a bottle neck in the amplifier’s performance. If I was to do the review now, I would have pointed that out. Thank you for watching and your advice 😊👍

[@Robert-vw3od]

I am planning on buying my first music system in the next few days and your reviews have been a tremendous help, okay most of the time I have no idea what you are talking about but I am starting to learn.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Rob. Very much appreciated 👍😊👍

[@bobb.9917]

Thanks for the thorough technical review…Your expertise picks apart the reality here and defines it well. 👍🏻

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Bob. I appreciate your support 😊👍

[@robertovelicia3949]

Hi Tarun and thanks for the review. Would it be a good option to use SMSL-SU9 DAC direclty connected to PA3 unit (with no pre-amp). I'm considering that as an upgrade to my current setup, where SMSL-SU9 in powered for a Yamaha RX-V 663 AV Receiver. Thanks in advance for your view.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I used the SMSL M300 II DAC with the PA3 to good effect. I would expect it to be even better with the SU9. Good luck and thanks for watching 😊👍

[@robertovelicia3949]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thaks a lot. Your answer it's really appreciated. 😉

[@franklandgraff1190]

I love your reviews! I was thinking that 2 PA3's linked to a good preamp could make for a great combo. Although the preamp comes with an expense!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Frank. That may be a setup worth trying 😊👍

[@3212Dre]

I purchased the IOTAVX Stack 3 months ago and they are driving 4 Klipsch RP600M speakers with the bottom end handled by 2 SVS SB2000 Pro subs. This combo sounds fantastic although I do not consider myself an expert by any means, it seems the efficient speakers are the key to great sound with the Stack. I may upgrade with 2 additional PA3's, then each speaker can be driven at 100 watts.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for watching and sharing your experiences 3212Dre 😉

[@LorDarkGoose]

The stack (SA3+PA3) already drives each speaker at 100 watts into 8ohm.

[@3212Dre]

@@LorDarkGoose The instruction manuals for the SA3 and PA3 (aka -The Stack) lists 45 watts per channel continuous (stereo) into an 8 ohm load. In bridged mode (mono) you get 100 watts, that's why I was thinking about buying 2 additional PA3s and run the "Double Stack" in bridged mode (100 watts per amp, per speaker = 400 watts).

[@LorDarkGoose]

3212Dre mmm... I’m not sure it will work like that but probably best check with Ian he usually responds to queries quite fast :)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi 3212Dre, you can run 2x PA3s in bridged mono mode and they will give you 100wpc into 8 ohms.

[@nigelsutton6919]

Enjoying your reviews. I have a Technics SA-AX6 Integrated AV receiver running into Tannoy Venus V30 speakers. Being a long time "fan" of Technics gear I was considering upgrading the amp to a vintage SU-C800U SE-A900S Pre-amp / & Power-amp set up which seem to be going for about £800-1000 on ebay if you are lucky. I like the look of the giant VU meters. Having seen the reviews of the IOTAVX combo with the Bluetooth dongle and I am wondering whether to come up to date with current amplification. At the moment I am playing a Sony MP3 player into an RCA input on the Technics amp which I could do with the IOTA of course. Would that be better than using Bluetooth. Later when funds allow I would like to replace the Tannoys with a pair of Fyne Audio F501s. Have you ever had any experience of these speakers? BTW room size is 15x17 feet.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Nigel, I have heard the F501s at shows and they sounded really good. I think they would be a choice for your size of room. The A900s is a glorious looking amplifier. I haven’t heard it so can’t comment on the sound. I think you need to take a look at the front end of your system. When you upgrade, I would ditch the MP3 player for a streamer. Something like the Bluesound Node 2i. Good luck 😊👍

[@nigelsutton6919]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks for the reply. I looked a the node 2i but I don't want to pay to stream music I already have. Can you recommend a good digital music player that will plat Hi-Res files with digital output. I'm not interested in streaming from online but cant find a hifi componant that is just a music server.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

@@nigelsutton6919 not sure you will get something without streaming capabilities these days but as a music server the Innuos Zen Mini Mk3 is a good option.

[@atanaspavlov9450]

Thanks Tarun for all your great reviews. I need you opinion about a choice between IotaVX SA3 + PA3 (combo) and Atoll IN 80. You made videos for both amplifiers and I will be very thankful for your advice. For speakers I use Klipsch RP 600M.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Atanas. Both good options but with different sound. The SA3/PA3 is more neutral in tonality but the IN80 Signature has better resolution and refinement with a warmer tone 😊👍

[@atanaspavlov9450]

Thanks Tarun!

[@throyl2706]

Hello, I want to buy an amp, but I am confused between Iotavx pa3 or smsl vmv a1, and I will use chord mojo 2 as a dac for them. What do you recommend? I have a bowers and wilkins 607 s2 speaker that I use on a computer desk.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Tough choice. Will come down to taste 😊

[@jhallo7740]

From all the amplifiers i owned in the past, from tube to mosfet or bipolar, this Iota combo has the best sound! I paired the amps in bridge mode with Mission speakers.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you for watching and commenting JH allo 😉

[@rayking507]

Have you listen to IOTAVX AVX17. How does it perform with movies and 2 channel music.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I haven’t Ray 😊

[@gprider1525]

Within a few days of getting my sa3 I contacted iota with an issue, they still haven't responded. Not looking good.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is a shame.

[@paulwg2112]

Appreciation for the details at each level. Love your channel. So you hinted at amps at 1k and 1500, what’s on the short list in Tarun’s world??

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you PaulWG. Audiolab 8300A, Hegel H90, Naim Nait 5si, Rega Elex R. At some point I would like to get all 4 of those in to see how they compare.

[@paulwg2112]

A British Audiophile thanks. Look forward to your next review

[@CC-bg8gf]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 That would be awesome Tarun. No love for the Musical Fidelity M3si? I don't have it, I'm just curious.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Claude, MF have made some of my favourite amplifiers over the years but I haven’t heard their more recent designs. I am not sure what is happening with the company now that founder and chief designer Antony Michaelson has sold it to Project’s Heinz Lichtenegger.

[@stanmyers5994]

Taran love the review, the amp looks good , no miss ,no fuss, and tone controls are long overdue, there's no such thing as the perfect speaker, great job mate!

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Stan 😊👍

[@piktosonik7669]

Hello Tarun, thanks for this channel and expertise! Happy new Year!!! I would like to change my old and tired HiFi system. I like acoustic music, jazz, blues, Ethnic, reggae, RnB, some pop-rock music. I like more warmish neutral ,not too much forward sound. detail, space but non-fatiguing listening. Something I can listen to anytime at low to mid-volume. My listening space is 4x4 square meters. I was thinking about SA3 or Cambridge ax35 for the amp, Elac debut reference and Kef 350 for speakers, and Aune X8 for DAC or maybe audiolab 6000a with no external DAC. What are your recommendations in terms of amp and speakers and DAC? budget between 1200-1500 Pounds. Thank you very much for your advice! Regards

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

My choice would be the Audiolab 6000A with the Elac Debut Reference or Wharfedale Denton 85 speakers. Thank you for watching 😊👍

[@piktosonik7669]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 My pleasure!!! more Elac debut reference or Denton 85th with the kind of sound and music i like? Thank you and have a good weekend.

[@Raymondey]

Thanks for the review! I like that it has a lot of additional information to that what well regarded Zero Fidelity has already covered! You are doing good job! You should try Emotiva BasX A300 too :)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Raymondey 😉👍

[@hoonhog28]

Love your thorough breakdown in your review. The rating at the end cements everything and give it more clarity.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you, much appreciated 😊👍

[@zyghom]

beautiful review! me being (by education) electronic engineer I love to see the capacitors and transistors - my school (millions years ago) come to my "brain/sound stage" immediately ;-) Since I am on "buy" I am wondering how they compare to M2si....if you know ;-)

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you ZH. Much appreciated. I haven’t heard the MF2si but I have spoken to the U.K. distributor for MF and hope to get some of their products in for review soon 😊👍

[@zyghom]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 I am waiting then

[@andrewmorgan4889]

Just received my second defective amp from IOTA. I regret this purchase.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

That is unfortunate.

[@skiskier]

I bought the Iota VX and Triangle BR03s. My plan was to direct connect my Fio M11 digital audio player via 3.5mm cable to the coaxial input. I bought the correct cable. Didn't work. Iota customer service says try another cable. 2nd cable still does not work. Ship the VX back to Iota. They send me another one, but never tell me if the coaxial input was defective. 2nd unit hooked up, and it doesn't work either. What am I doing wrong? Has anyone ever tried to direct connect a DAP to this amp?

[@imoestan6748]

Do you hear the second order distortion arising on a 4 ohm speakers ?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Not really... what exactly are you referring to?

[@audiophileuk1341]

Hi nice review...just a quick question which boggles my mind in audio....why does nobody Hardy use or review external equalisers anymore....I cannot listen my music without one....am I missing something or are amps these days that good that u don't need an EQ???genuine question

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Cory. Many external equalisers can degrade sound quality but can be useful if you want to adjust the tonal balance of a recording 😊👍

[@audiophileuk1341]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 ohh rite...I can never listen to music without EQ..it sounds to flat most times...I always have to adjust something....

[@audiophileuk1341]

So what's the best sounding amplifier out of the audiolab 6000a which I know u love and the rotel a11 tribute...cheers tarun

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

@@audiophileuk1341 I haven’t hear the Rotel as yet 😊

[@sonhouse9636]

Thanks for the review, seeing the inside of an amp tells a lot. The build looks good, i like the quasi double mono design. I don't like the 2X68000 mF, I think it's not enough for a good bass rendering. I would have liked to know more about the preamp: does it use relays, does the volume control use a potentiometer. Thank you again, I follow you.

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Hi Son House, thank you. It is a well laid out amp. The 2x 6,800 mF is understandable given the price but I agree that you need more to control the woofer properly. The size of the transformer suggests that it could support more but the transistor are already running quite hot so I am not sure they would cope. According to Sean at Zero Fidelity it is an analogue volume controlled digitally. I couldn’t see a potentiometer so I suspect it uses relays but it is covered by the shield. Would need to check with Iota to know for sure.

[@sonhouse9636]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 thanks.

[@silviopimentel7247]

Hey brother im so confused I just got the opticon 2's & find it very dark in my room as Im using all vintage stuff & it's not cutting! Very, very dark i tryed pioneer, luxman, Scott, nad & Harmon. Was just wondering if u know of anything I could try (modern perhaps) to open up the darkness ? Before I inquire on McIntosh 🤔 witch now im thinking it might be dark also. Thank u if u get around to this question. 🙏💯

[@DuragVince-]

Hello, How would you say this stack compares to Audiolab 6000A and Yamaha A-S801?

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

I haven’t tried the A-S801 but the 6000A has better refinement whilst the SA3/PA3 combo has more power and dynamics 😊

[@DuragVince-]

@@abritishaudiophile7314 if the 6000a play and the iotavx stack were the same price today, which would you go with?

[@Anand.Asrani]

Hey Tarun !! love the Review ,this kinda equipment is perfect for casual enthusiasts like me & can get something good within a decent budget. 👍

[@abritishaudiophile7314]

Thank you Anand. You are right they offer a lot for the money 😉👍