Amazon Retro Styled Hybrid Tube Amplifier with VU Meters? Infi IF-AD05 Amp Dyno Test

#Amplifier #AmpDyno #AmpTest
I recently was intrigued with these retro-styled, new generation hybrid tube amplifiers. Several companies are selling budget models such as Nobsound, Dayton Audio, Rockville and Infi. The amp I really wanted to try out, the Dayton HTA100BT was out of stock and not available for a couple of months. Figuring there must be some options, I headed off to Amazon for an alternative. This is when I came across the Infi IF-AD05 Hybrid Tube Amplifier. Watch the video to find out more about this intriguing home audio amplifier.
Shop (affiliate links):
Infi IF-AD05 Hybrid Tube Amplifier - amzn.to/3iu3rLJ
Nobsound MS10D Mk3 Hybrid Tube Amp - amzn.to/3jtCfxX
Nobsound 6P1 Full Vacuum Tube Amplifier - amzn.to/3juhK3Y
Elac Speakers - amzn.to/3kQdJHp
Subwoofer Plate Amplifiers - amzn.to/3cSTMx4
Powered Subwoofers - amzn.to/3iwLgF4
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--------Cameras and Gear Used To Shoot This Video ------
(Video Gear I Use)
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This VIDEO was EDITED with LumaFusion on an iPad Pro 12.9:
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-------- Test Bench Equipment ------
SMD / D'Amore Engineering Amp Dyno: goo.gl/sJTcf7
XS Power D1400 Batteries - amzn.to/2BPFCKW
XS Power PSC60 Charger - amzn.to/2CHGcfs
Fluke 1000A AC/DC Clamp Meter: amzn.to/2Rw5WDA
Handheld Dyno: amzn.to/2u2EgKV
My Favorite Screwdriver Kit: amzn.to/2x0VzcE
DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase from one of the product links, I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

[@wal]

Shop (affiliate links): Infi IF-AD05 Hybrid Tube Amplifier - amzn.to/3iu3rLJ Nobsound MS10D Mk3 Hybrid Tube Amp - amzn.to/3jtCfxX Nobsound 6P1 Full Vacuum Tube Amplifier - amzn.to/3juhK3Y Elac Speakers - amzn.to/3kQdJHp Subwoofer Plate Amplifiers - amzn.to/3cSTMx4 Powered Subwoofers - amzn.to/3iwLgF4 Williston Audio Merch - teespring.com/stores/BigDWiz DISCLAIMER: This video and description contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase from one of the product links, I may receive a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases

[@jbuch66koop]

I bought the rockville one back in January and I'm running 4 jbl Northridge bookshelf speakers and a certain vega 10" powered woofer off of it and it gets down! It's almost too much for my garage haha easily as good as other "300w" traditional head units out there for the price.

[@oi3]

Hello plz make review and test of subwoofers like rockville punisher and or other better and cheap subs im looking to buy rockville punisher 6000w peak if u know better at same price power and also good looking sub let me know

[@fadisrour3546]

Can you test the logitech z906 home theater?

[@RLNTEX]

@@fadisrour3546 I had that...

[@RLNTEX]

@@fadisrour3546 settled on the Z5500

[@danielstillmaker4248]

Yes! Team "test more home audio equipment" all the way! I loved your mini amp board tests.

[@wal]

Thanks for the feedback

[@NerdyMeathead]

@@wal I agree more home amps!

[@davelehti4000]

Yeah I'm not into car audio, but I love to watch this channel in case I get a wild hare, I'll know what to get :) (Corrected)*

[@Bassotronics]

@ *dave lehti* You mean Wild Hare?

[@davelehti4000]

@@Bassotronics Yes, I knew it looked wrong when I typed it out... LOL

[@cpufrost]

"All you need is a good 5W amp" - Paul W. Klipsch... That would rock the house on a pair of Klipschorns! :-)

[@williams6550]

I was thinking the same for my Forte IIs! The fixed sub output would be a huge deal killer for me, but I wouldn't really neeeed to add in the sub for the Fortes, either. Though...I'd still want to. That fixed sub output really stinks.

[@cpufrost]

@@williams6550 Has to be on oversight on design. My main concern with this amp would be on highly efficient speakers is quiescent state noise. On typical 89dB (1v/1m) speakers it's inaudible. But with high efficiency compression HF drivers it would become very apparent even in the listening position! That bloody hiss.

[@sMASHsound]

i woudl use these small tube amps as a sort of preamp/dsp. only to run the signal tru, to larger amps.

[@voiceofreason9238]

@@williams6550 The sub out RCA is a low level input. Use speaker wires to go high level input from the L/R of the amp directly to the line-in of the sub, then OUT from the sub to the speakers.

[@PeterMilanovski]

It's surprising how many people think that 5W is a joke! And if you are impressed with 5w, wait to you try one of those cheap eBay PAM chip based class D amplifiers! They are rated for 3W per channel and can be powered by the 5V USB phone charger! I have drove 15" three way speakers with it and it just blows me away! It's barely bigger than my thumb! It's bloody tiny! You can easily connect it to a couple of lithium batteries for power and an equally small Bluetooth module and you would have to be careful to not loose it lol. I haven't heard a 3W tube amplifier but if it's anything like the Pam amplifier modules then it should definitely rock the house! Oh and did I mention that you can get them for around a dollar! Some listings bundle them five for $5AU, cheaper if you are in the US! Best five bucks you will ever spend! Your friends and family won't believe that it's actually that tiny little thing making all that sound, just ask them to guess what they think that it's capable of running off a USB phone charger LoL...

[@alphaomega8373]

You can hear the genuine happiness in Big D's voice when he was describing the features ") Awesome demo music too best yet!

[@wal]

😝👍

[@ricowingfield4992]

Bought the same amp, appreciate your professional validation that for that price this amp sounds GREAT.

[@mysock351C]

3:38 Someone's gotta peel that protective layer off. I think that warrants its own video for the OCD crowd.

[@jamesplotkin4674]

I'm just the opposite. I have several products which still have this film covering. My thinking is, if I ever sold the device, it would look pristine.

[@Humbulla93]

@@jamesplotkin4674 that´s the way i think

[@dp1582]

agreed. enjoy life. peel the peel! you deserve it

[@joeyholthusen6495]

Big D, making old school great again.

[@wal]

Yeah boi

[@michaelrodgers6559]

I'd love to see more home products tested on the channel, even reference or recording studio quality stuff. I would recommend creating a space without so many reflective surfaces to get a better idea of SQ though. If you had a reasonably deadened room, you could measure frequency output with a spectro using white and/or pink noise and be able to show frequency response, etc.

[@wng8993]

I ordered one from Amazon. I sent it back! After a couple hours of use the vu meters go dark and hissing and popping sound from speakers. It was a cool looking, cheap little amp, I gave it a shot!

[@damiancruz5893]

Yes I'm a car Audio bass head installer.over 20 Year of costom installs for friends an family.even my own car.i really enjoy your information videos.I remember the smile I get when I'm cleaning up after it's all done and taking pictures of before and the finished out come.i always draw a picture of what it's going to look like before I get started so they have an idea of what it will look like when I'm done.

[@wal]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@PawPaws_Place]

I love the home audio tests. Do more of these too man! I’m loving the old school tube amps! 🙌

[@TechGorilla1987]

Oh, BigD, PLEASE!!!!! Please get a full tube class A. That would be the direction that I would like to head.

[@panosvrionis8548]

Not here 😂😃 You get hybrid men hybrid😂😂

[@rafacq]

I was able to listen to the Dayton Audio HTA-200 last week and liked it so much I bought it. I have listened with my Wharfdale Diamond 225 and my Martin Logan Motion 60XTi and am really happy with the HTA-200.

[@scottbennett3119]

I have always enjoyed watching the dyno test videos you produce. Thanks!

[@arcforceworld]

heck yeah bro! These are interesting as hell! Keep them coming. It's always good to explore new stuff.

[@bradgilpin9740]

Yes please more home audio! Was a pretty cool amplifier but I think volume controls would kill it for me. But hopefully you will find that jem!

[@fredmalito9869]

I firmly believe that Chi-Fi is the way to go for the modern audio file on a budget. Some of these import tube amplifiers are just terrific. I have a Yaqin That I picked up from eBay Canada on the cheap and one of their preamps that’s been heavily modified for my Carbon turntable. This set up runs a pair of Klipsch RF 280 twin 8 inch driver floor standing speakers, and it sounds incredible! Are use an older iPod classic for the primary source loaded with non-compressed audio files. It’s been running for about four years now and never needed a tube or even a bias adjustment. Color me impressed!

[@kyleteal5888]

Just wanted to say thanks for doing the Dayton Audio 250 vs Yung 300 video. It helped me make up my mind on a project of mine. I ended up getting a Dayton Audio SA-100 and goes well with what I have. So once again I pass on praise and thanks.

[@wal]

👌😝👍

[@timmotel5804]

1/19/2024: Cool. Because of your demonstration, I just ordered a pair of the UB5 speakers that you are using. Best Regards.

[@303nitzubishi4]

Big D we knew you would jump on anything with some cool vu meters 😄 Looks like a decent value and a perfect match for the ELACs. Unfortunately the sub outs are useless if they're fixed!! Cool amp and great video as always

[@TurboJohn74]

WoW- What a pleasant surprise! Thank you for covering audiophile realm, non cookie- cutter equipment. Made my week, seriously

[@wal]

Thanks for the feedback 👌

[@burnstudios]

A Savard sub woofer, man that takes me back to 1988 and high school. With 2 12inch savards in the back of my 71 bug. I have a big pair of their home speakers in my house, from 1983. They weigh a ton. Great video btw!

[@riccitone]

Yes on the full tube class A! Would be great to get your testing and impressions on one of those. CAn't believe what's possible with one of these lower priced hybrids. Curious what difference (if much) changing those only two tubes would make. Probably nothing, as these are typically solid state with the tubes that might as well be decorative lights. Also, why not try dedicated cables from the posts to the sub as opposed to the bass output? Avoid it altogether, some say that usually sounds better anyway (depending on whether the sub has that option). Great review.

[@dougwinchester4963]

I love seeing the home audio stuff. One thing I wanted to say, while it's true that the fact of it having tubes or having transistors in the output stage doesn't really make that big a difference, and that the input stage can affect the sound quality, what does make a difference, is the fact that a tube output stage uses an output Transformer. The inductive coupling gives it a very firm grip on the inductive load, the speakers. Speakers are not resistive, but are inductive. The resistance is nominal, or DC, but the actual load is inductive reactance, and the output Transformer can match up with it very effectively, giving a stable output regardless of the inductive reactance of the load. Transistor amplifiers tend to vary their output, according to inductive reactance, and it can give an uneven quality on some speakers. When you have speakers that present a wildly varied inductive reactance , something like the classic multi driver Infinity Quantum or Kappa models, it's very difficult for a solid-state amplifier to deal with. Tube amplifiers, with their output Transformers are much less affected by these crazy loads. Also, tube amplifiers distort with even order harmonics, which our ears find Pleasant. The odd order harmonics of solid-state amplifier sound harsh. That even order harmonic is what is used to make a fuzzed-out guitar sound. That is literally an over driven tube circuit. While a solid-state amplifier can sound fantastic , and produces much more power, output of a full tube amplifier has a much greater effect for the number of Watts driven because of the inductive coupling. Nothing against solid state, that's what I use myself , because I like the sound of really big Power. I grew up with tube amplifiers, Marantz 8B, bought at yard sales in the mid-70s. Those were the days!

[@dupajasio4801]

Excellent point. Didn't know that. And btw I have Kappa 7.

[@photomaster1]

Very nice review, you provided far more detail than other channels that I've watched on this type of equipment. I've bit the bullet and picked up the Infi IF-AD05 I must have missed your part about how large this is Oh My God yeah it's large. Please keep up the great work...

[@sureshmacwan338]

Tube amplifier, wow, it's cristal clear out put 50 years ago I am from India, thank you 👍👌

[@sonicbrush]

I didn't get the spare tubes on mine. But yeah, thanks for the great review. I wouldn't have paid attention to this if I hadn't seen your review, and to know that it outperforms its claimed specs is a big plus. This powers my 5 inch patio speakers and they kick ass paired with an old MTX sub cabinet with a new Focal sub installed, It's been flawless for 2 years.

[@chetamus1845]

You do excellent work. Love watching your videos. It would be interesting to see what an old stereo receiver from Kenwood, Optimus and Onkyo would do compared to new models. It seems like everything was rated at 100W per channel, but now Sony and other brands are stating over 200! At 10% distortion of course, so it would be interesting to see a comparison. Especially since those old ones are all over the thrift stores.

[@vacuumtubeamplifiers1100]

I've had it explained to me by a professor who ran the physiological acoustics lab at my undergrad that most of the what people say is bs and the two are more or less the same. He did say there is a small difference in the harmonics created by the two which could have some effect, but the average person wouldn't be able to tell the difference I doubt many people could pick out tubes vs transistors in a blind test

[@joshdobson2737]

Friend of mine,in the 90s built his own tube amplifier and he has some super high-quality Cerwin Vega Towers honestly it was some of the strongest low-volume sound I've ever heard! Not bad turned up also!

[@bassheadsofvanwert1007]

Im always giving you a big thumbs up Derek on these tests. That amp actually sounded really clean with those power ratings. Im very impressed on the tests there from the dyno.

[@wal]

It did what it was rated to do, can’t ask for more. Sounds great too 🤟

[@MrNicks-gn8jc]

I could recommend this for someone who only has $500-$750 for a home setup....$200 for the amp, $300 for a pair of Klipsch high-efficiency bookshelf speakers new or used Synergy floorstanding speakers, and $200 for an Onkyo CD player (or just get a used dvd player, blue ray player, or any generation Xbox or Playstation from a garage sale or Ebay)......YOU GOOD TO GO !! I love the amp sound.....would LOVE to hear some E-40 instrumentals on this thing !

[@Infinite81023]

Nice job been running Monoprice hybrid 50 watt since 2016 in my garage. Went with high level inputs on 2x12 inch powered subs by energy old school es-12 sealed. Runs 2 sets of bookshelf 8 inch drivers also from 1990’s into 4 ohms. Completely satisfied with the hybrid amp. Recently replaced tubes. And little amp still runs strong 53 watts per channel I would like to see it on the dyno. Sounds like my mtx2300 seems way more than advertised. I appreciate you. Michael

[@dominicgreen115]

As a Z reviews fan I gotta say I like your style. You should do more home audio amp/dac/speaker tests did you do a review on those Elac's?. Start with the edifier s2000 mrkIII or go all in and test the s3000 pros. Subbed and in for non car audio content!!!

[@wal]

I plan to do more variety coming up, car, home, pro audio

[@justinhiggins2210]

Absolutely wonderful video. Hopefully in the near future full tube amps will come down in price. A lot of the reason for their high cost I think is because to use tubes on the output they run on such high voltage you have to have huge transformers on each left and right channel to lower the voltage to be compatible with speakers which requires a lot of copper and core steel. I was wondering when you were going to post another video I was going through withdrawals, again another wonderful video thank you.

[@wal]

Usually one vid per week, sometimes two 🤟

[@justinhiggins2210]

@@wal thanks again.

[@markphilpot4981]

Your viewership is with you. Your call Big D. I’m game for what you want to review. Stay safe mates!😊👍🏻😷

[@shodan6401]

Go full tubes, Big D. The joys of natural, even-harmonic distortion! Just like we hear every day in real life...

[@msh6865]

Tubes in the output stage are a must IMO for home audio if you already have them in the preamp section. Also, toss the factory tubes in favor of some JJ's, Electro-harmonix or RCA's. The 12au7 will give you less gain but, should sound smoother overall.

[@MasterDJRenn]

Finally something other than car audio on the dyno......Getting closer to come pro audio amps.

[@VidTubeWatch]

Very awesome review. I still have my Scott Receiver tube stereo and the KLH speakers that my folks gave me several years ago. Something about that tube sound. It even has slots in the back of the Scott for the fuses. Everything still works perfectly, and I've been able to hook up a cd player, dvd player, and any modern day audio component to it. I've had to replace a couple of fuses over the years. No more Radio Shack, so I had to go to an electronics repair shop the one time that fuses blew. It's kind of like how younger folks and even some of us old school guys are buying record players again. I wish I still had the record player that they had purchased along with the Scott and KLH speakers. I forget the brand of the record player. Bullet proof components and built to last.

[@b1pig]

Home audio testing? Absolutely. I kinda like the oldschool stuff myself. I drooled all over the magazines back then, but couldn't afford anything that didn't come from a pawn shop. LOL. I still wish I had my old Rockford Fosgate amps and Petras Cardiac subs.

[@catch22frubert]

Very cool Big D! I've been interested in some of these small amps for a pair of computer speakers and for plugging in a nice pair of headphones. This kind of content is awesome. Let's see some more of these little amps. Monoprice tends to have decent stuff for cheap. Good luck finding that gem amplifiers you are looking for!

[@wal]

It would be a perfect amp for your computer and favorite bookshelf speakers

[@williamkillingsworth2619]

Love the meters. All amps should have the.

[@wal]

Agreed!! 🤘

[@johnnyirizarry6489]

Great review! Please keep reviewing this type of home audio products.

[@netflowsounds9366]

I could watch your videos all day Big D. Shame I’ve got to go to work lol. Keep it up brother, love the channel ✌🏻

[@MichaelLivingston-me]

I liked this video. You betcha, I would like to see home audio tests as well. Just as others have commented, the master volume needs to control the subwoofer too. This would be a simple fix for the designers. I'm surprised they let that go without thinking Sum-Ting-Wong ...

[@watchingitallhere]

Very strange, they should have caught that.

[@jasonandrews457]

so happy u started testing these. i have always wanted one

[@wal]

She’s got the looks 👌

[@BunB4523]

My love of bass started with home audio and then progressed to car audio, so I would love to see some more home audio videos.

[@jeffneedstogivejakeaturnon1083]

Man, I'm glad you reviewed this. I've been looking at the Dayton one since they released it. Rockville has had one for a while but I feel like their QC is not up to par. Thanks big D. I might just pull the trigger on one of these.

[@AdrianBroadnax]

I have been soooo interested in upgrading my home amp! This looks like a good upgrade and the price is more than right. THANKS!!!!!

[@angelvip2474]

And look hella nice while doing it

[@bigk7788]

Yes love all kinds of audio... keep it going. Now if only parts express would have stuff in stock. I'll be ordering the tube amplifier from parts-express once it's in stock. Hopefully they send you one to test before I order mine....

[@EarlofBaltimore]

I know this is an old video, so I'm a little late to the party. I actually bought one of these or something very similar) and it showed up with a dead channel. I ended up sending it back and I'm kind of glad I did. It would be interesting to check the traces going to the tube sockets. It turns out that a lot of these sub $200 US units are wired so that the heaters in the tubes get voltage and light up so that they aren't in the signal chain, but just there for show. That might explain why they weren't too bothered about sending a matched spare.

[@thebkg]

You'll be surprised by the volume you get from the low output power of the full Class A tube amps. Tubes ability to control speaker movements with lower power is amazing.

[@73kokitch]

Yeah I wanna see more of these tube amps!!! Cool video as usual mate!

[@scottgibson807]

Nice job BigD. Enjoy your videos regardless of home or car. Keep 'em coming!

[@wal]

Thanks brother 👌

[@asimwaseef]

Awesome video yet again Big D. For SQ comparisons, have you thought of recording the audio with a professional recording mic and run pink noise tests to check the sound signature of different amplifiers.

[@AllboroLCD]

I do see now this is a good product, and I definitely appreciate the teardown! Been curious about these budget hybrid units for a while now! They really could have left the USB, BT, DAC, fixed sub outs & tone knobs out of this thing though. As a simple power amplifier, very respectable product, all the other crap makes it confusing and look bad IMHO. Thanks Big D!

[@wal]

Simple is better I agree

[@carforumwanker]

100😆% agree . Its a case of less would mean more

[@phonebackup8132]

Careful, the class a tube amp is a very deep rabbit hole. I would love to see you go down it!

[@scottymsu6063]

Love it! Can you Dyno more Home Stereo amps and receiver? I'm a big audiophile.. either cards or home stereo.. love it all. Always wanted to know if Receivers are putting out their rated power.. and who make the list and who faking it

[@peteytwofinger]

thanks for all your work Williston labs !!

[@crazy8sdrums]

I'd be interested in dyno tests of some home audio gear. For example, some of the cheapo 5.1 surround receivers boast 100 watts per channel but probably only dish out 20 per. There is so much variance in home audio and some testing of the gear would help buyers make better choices.

[@wal]

Good point 👍

[@Rightn2Parabola]

This vid makes me want to buy one. Such a cool little amp. I love the vu meters and how they light up the same color as the tubes.

[@dougwinchester4963]

Big D , if you like the sound quality of the tube preamp section, as I do , I would recommend trying a tube preamp , or , a tube buffer/line driver, to add that sweet tube sound, to your favorite mega power SS amp . With the latter, you can use a modern ss preamp, and drive the line level power amp input with a sweet tube sound. The buffer doesn't usually have gain, the line driver does. Some of the little Chinese ones are not tube driven , but only use the tube as a voltage regulator , so beware. The little ART has a variable tube "sound" control , to let you adjust how sweet you like it . They are balanced (XLR) . This type of device also allows you to provide your amp with higher input voltage, giving the maximum signal level it can accept, for maximum signal to noise level . The gain is also maximized for the unit , and the sound is very dynamic. Its. Like the line drivers we used , back in the day , in car audio. Remember the Audiocontrol Overdrive ? That , with tubes. I have also used low ratio , moderate rate attack and release, compression, to warm the sound , and give it a tube-y quality, since my Behringer DEQ2496 and DCX2496 have built in line drivers . It leaves off the even order harmonics, but otherwise gives a good , and variable, effect . Fun , with faking it !

[@johnmcquay82]

Great to see you're taking a look at more domestic amplifiers too. I'd also be interested in seeing video's on pro amps; I appreciate that's potentially a very costly venture though.

[@wal]

Yes that would be cool but yeah I’d need to partner with a local shop

[@matthewf1979]

OH SHIT! TUBE AMP TEST! Too bad it’s just a pre amp with a solid state power section. Freaking awesome stuff man! I build tube guitar amps on the side, I’ve always wondered what they’re actually putting out.

[@ponokanaka]

Indeed. Power amp saturation is bliss

[@wal]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@tracyupshaw7862]

I bet the Vox amps test well.. I own one and out of all my guitar amps its far superior than anything else.

[@fiolds350]

Pull the tubes and see if the amp still works.... Some of these hybrids are bs

[@shanesubashe787]

I love seeing these home amplifier videos.

[@wal]

More coming, although many will be from the 90’s. I recently got a few Sony ES receivers and amps.

[@camv5193]

I would buy this just based on looks, visuals are stacked

[@johnnypickens1333]

Interesting change of pace. Enjoyed the vid 👍

[@BblastedD]

My day is finally complete. Big Derek old school for LYFE!

[@wal]

Word 👆

[@scottymsu6063]

You big dummy.. haha jk. Old skool audio 4 lyfe

[@optimusprimer4392]

I would like to see more of these tests with these vacuum tube stereos I see all kinds of them and it's hard just choosing one based off of a picture

[@sugizotakuro]

usually these hybrids are using the tube as pre amplifier to both channels. if you have an amlifier, just purchase a tube pre amplifier and hook up to your amplifier. I personally use a tube preamplifier and hook to my amplifier. those tubes shaped the sound very good. my chine tubes gives more treble and the GE gives more bass. but both give good results is the sound space.

[@purplehazeffc]

Rumour has it, that the ELAC Uni-fi UB5's sound great with most amps...... With tall the circuitry underneath.. I wonder how much the tubes really make a difference to the sound?? Be interesting for sure to se a full tube design amp..

[@wal]

These are not easy to drive as they are inefficient. This amp has no issues driving them

[@thevintageaudiolife]

Thank you for sharing, very interesting and informative, just uploaded a few of my hand crafted tube Amps. I enjoy learning more about the world of tube Audio!

[@Mournful3ch0]

Yes please!! Id love to see and hear some class A amps on the dyno

[@JingoLoBa57]

Put some PassLabs through their paces...

[@Bassotronics]

Owning a Ferrari and you open the trunk to find a Toyota spare wheel which came from factory. Same analogy as that spare tube. 🤣🤷🏻‍♂️

[@jimijack100]

The tubes may not have to match. Depends how they wired. There is 2 gain stages in each tube. Which can be too much for hifi at high output. The 12au7 has less gain and wont distort as easily at high output.

[@stephencosta6814]

For the price you cannot beat it much better than a standard Class A B I think it sounds fantastic and subwoofer connection is great really an all-in-one system if a rock bottom price

[@michaeljones19731]

That transformer threw me for a 6. It's Mahoooosive!. Lol. 😁 Good review. Definitely would like to see pure class A tube review also. 5 * 👍😊 Greetings from the UK!

[@Nydesidner]

So it may be that the INFI AD05 is using the newer approach for controlling the volume of amplification. They are controlling the amplifier output rather than the signal from the preamp section. In many applications that technique seams to give a more linear frequency response across the power spectrum resulting in a stronger low end at lower volumes. Onkyo's WRAT technology is an example of that approach.

[@CinemaDemocratica]

Two friendly amendments: First, saying that this amp has "a USB input" is not objectively misleading, but I think a lot of people would associate that expression with the asynchronous USB input socket featured on amps which accept USB as one of the digital sources, along with coaxial and optical. What I would say about this one, if I may, is "It has a memory-stick input." Second, you refer to this unit as a "tube hybrid," and it is -- the power amp stage is toroidal-and-caps, in conventional class A/B stylings. But these days the phrase "tube hybrid" is generally used to imply that the power stage is class D, which as you know would make a huge difference.. What I would say is, "Tube amplifier with solid state power," instead.

[@robsorgdrager8477]

Tube/analog amps are so awesome. They also double as space heaters 😂🤣 but what a tube amp can do with 20 watts is mind blowing. It's hard to test a analog amp by feeding it a digital signal . The thing about tube amps is the natural " warm " flavor they have. The signal from a tube is very linear where is a class d is essentially a square wave. Most can't tell the difference but in things like drums....a good tube amp should be able to pick up the stick hitting the drum skin in the sound of the drum or a pick across guitar strings. Granted the way in which the media was recorded has a lot to do with it but digital amps tend to skip over little things like that.

[@wal]

I’m going to try some out

[@ed_1969]

Was loving this amp and wanted one until you pointed out the sub output volume stays the same 🤨 then you pointed out the Bluetooth volume is lower compared to the USB mode. Thanks for the video and for pointing out these important flaws Yes on more home audio!

[@MoparStephen]

OH MAN - watching now, super interested in these. I'll edit the review after I watch the video :) Edit - better than I expected, would make a decent little test bench amp.

[@wal]

👌😝👍

[@Mile-long-list]

Thank you !! This is what I was hoping you would do. More please. Class a home stuff and yeah the full tube version I would love to hear your input.

[@wal]

Cool amp for a computer sound system too

[@Mile-long-list]

@@wal yup. I have a preamp version of this and I love it, great sound. But the full tube amp I didnt buy i bet i would if you reviewed it. Thanks again big D !!

[@monkeymanstones1]

I can certainly hear the warm sound tubes provide, but the highs sound very off in the Bluetooth feed at least. A bit of a surprise to see what is very similar to a toroidal transformer (but the height alone makes clear it is not). Interesting for sure, but I'm very happy with my Counterpoint pre and amp.

[@broberts5occ]

Thanks big d been curious about these for a while. Great content as usual.

[@DJPhantomRage]

Yes more tests like this. Thanks I appreciate this one.

[@wal]

Thanks brother

[@kohnfutner9637]

The sub out is basically just an rca out, which the Emotiva basx a-100 has for both right and left. It's not a bad sounding amp but I'm assuming it's meant to be considered as "very budget" - Things just aren't working as they should and the sound is better than junk but not ground breaking from what I'm hearing. I think it looks more like a tube amp than it sounds.

[@PlaybackMansion]

Get a Decware! Handmade in Peoria, IL. 10% off today. 2 Watts!

[@wal]

Sweet

[@curtchase3730]

Very impressive review! As usual, the designers, with just a little more effort, could have had a really neat little piece there. My questions: 1) No headphone jack, 2) What do the VU meters monitor? (Input signal, or some kind of output power)? 3) An amp that has SUB out and no provisions to limit bass to main speakers is just dumb. 4) I could re-wire that sub out jack to the pre out of amp to fix that lack of volume control to the sub jacks. 5) I bet the sub out jacks simply send full spectrum freq out anyway. Your sub amp must have a low pass filter. 6) Do the tubes REALLY do anything? Try pulling one out and see if that channel goes dead. Measure the plate voltage on a tube. Should be 80+ VDC. 7) I bet they stuck some LED under the tubes to make them really scream, Look! I got tubes! LOL. Because I'm so old skool, I'd kill those stupid lights myself and just let the natural glow do it's thing. I am looking at that Parts Express amp too. Remember, this is a hybrid amp! Ya, the tubes (if they really do anything) are only in the pre-amp circuit. If you're looking for the real "tube sound" for your super sensitive horn loaded wash machine size speakers, get a full tube amp! Hope Big D does get and test one of those fully tubed amps!

[@marscounty]

Great video. Keeping it interesting, wasn't expecting a test of Amazon hybrid amp. Volume control issues on this amp need to be fixed.

[@wal]

Yeah just a few little flaws, overall really good

[@antoniograncino3506]

Fuggeddabowdit if you want to play records: no phono stage. The 12AX7 (or is it 12AU7?) front end is seductive and (with the help of a light in the socket) gives you that warm glow. and likely warms up the sound. Haven't had one to evaluate yet, so can't speak to the adequacy of the power supply, but the toroidal power transformer is a good start. They could add one more dual triode and have a phono stage, at which point I might spring for one. Might mean another $40 on the price. I wonder how good this could be with a discrete MOSFET output stage.? And high grade film coupling caps instead of electrolytics.

[@fellowyorkshireman2391]

Hey big D, I really like your home audio tests too :)

[@frostyab7579]

the one problem with those amps is that the tubes are there just for looks, the power stage is actually a MOSFET

[@veroman007]

i read that as well. i have a set amp w hi eff fullrange drivers. i cant believe the guy did not note that!

[@porkchopspapi5757]

Can you explain how the tubes can not be used due to it being mosfet?

[@matthewkim3282]

Not sure if I would Dyno a full tube amp, but the even order harmonics from a full tube amp sounds way more pleasant when going into distortion, so a typical 8watt tube amp will sound WAY WAY louder than a comparable Solid State amp. Class A tube amps at 30watts is ALL you need for a set of tube friendly home speakers. Some Class A tube amps usually come with a switch (well designed ones) to put it into push-pull mode as well, to double the power output.

[@arthurdanielles4784]

I was learning about, repairing and rebuilding valve equipment from the late 60s as a kid. My mates dad was an ex RAF technician who taught me all about the various tubes, the tech stuff, the maths, the physics AAAAAAARGH ... 🙄 and the HIGH VOLTAGES !! I made good money from renovating valve record players / radio etc The record units once my buyer heard em sold instantly.. no tinny transistor but warm sound.. Your review is interesting as is the CLASS AB tube pre amp = NOT a CLASS A unit which would be a better but probably costlier unit.. The tubes looked really bright which means the filaments are running pretty hot..? Most modern tube units QUALITY units, have good power supplies so voltages tend to be consistent. Most people don't realize that the FILAMENTS on valves can run at up to 2 AMPS power drain whereas the tubes themselves re (anode / grid voltages etc ) are mAmps (milli Amps.. ) The 12AX7 however is rated at 150mAmps (series) or 300mAmps (parallel) so VERY low power consumption. The anode CURRENT is a mere 1.2mAmps which is ??? Considering they are both DUAL TRIODE valves. Center tapped heater means the valves can operate at either 12.6v or 6.3v - I suspect the main signal processing is within the main amp attached 'solid state' unit. I note the reference to 'High Miller' capacitance makes it unsuitable for radio frequency amplification.. hmm interesting. I also note it does not have PHONO pre amplification, you would have to connect a deck with inbuilt preamp or separate pre amp. I use the ECC83 twin triode with two EL84s on outputs.. Some valve/tube record amp units used ECC832 (12DW7) which had a pre 1st stage AND 2nd stage (low gain - 12AX7 factor of 17, high gain -12AU7 factor of 100) in one valve. Musicians of course loved tube amps cos of the feedback howl in particular 👀🙄that most early transistor units could not produce.. HOWEVER valve amps could seldom produce the OUTPUT power (watts) that solid state devices could.. All in all I loved working with tube units.. once you knew the core fundamentals on what you COULD do and SAFELY with them, the only limitations were often down to what was available re parts etc. Great vid, stay safe! Cool to see that such units are around and the toroidal POWER transformer unit on that looks massive! 👀

[@jasonneal]

I’ve learned in my Jeep Grand Cherokee that I get a way better output by connecting my phone directly to the USB port rather than using the BT. Plus it charges the phone. It’s really noticeable with the bass output.

[@z1berzerker]

I have a Douk hybrid... similar top with tr, vol and bass knobs... Thanks for doing something a lil different 👍😊 Appreciate your channel

[@wal]

Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@ChrisDIYerOklahoma]

Great demo...I have seen these. Curious "why" Dayton Audio is sold out. Are they really that popular? If I ever wanna go Class A tube, def go "all the way in" with the output stage. I am def old enough to remember how buttery warm Class A amps sound.

[@wal]

Maybe the initial stock was low? Not sure

[@DanielvanKATWIJK]

I think the 12AU7 is for a different sound experiance perhaps ?

[@iceman45ification1]

I guess you can expect a few things not to like for something at that price point. Still though, very nice amp if you like listening to high quality sound. Also it's nice to see it was rated properly. Overall, a very cool little amp. Great video BigD!! 👌

[@iikatinggangsengii2471]

anything at 113 level guaranteed really high level sound, contrary to what it might seem on list

[@russellanderson746]

A big thumbs up to the home audio direction! I really appreciate the good data on the true output/quality of the amps you review. Thanks for bringing this amp to my attention. I, like you, was interested in the Parts Express item, but I was put off by the cheap look of the vu meters....They look like they belong on a car battery charger. This unit has a much nicer look...and let's face it....Looks matter!

[@wal]

If you think something is going to sound good by the looks, it can have that psychoacoustical effect

[@russellanderson746]

@@wal It's something to lookout for when comparing products. It's nice when a product seems to have both looks and performance as seems to be the case here. Looking forward to your review of the class A tube unit you mentioned!