An AMP with HDMI that SOUNDS GOOD! Audiolab Amp 7000A Review

🎯 Get the Audiolab 7000A here bit.ly/3YKWQSh • bit.ly/3UsdzcN
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► SHOP THE AUDIOLAB 7000A INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
7000A bit.ly/3YKWQSh • bit.ly/3UsdzcN
► SHOP AUDIOLAB
6000A amzn.to/398qSrJ
6000A Play bit.ly/3AiW43w
9000A bit.ly/3WfuIWW • bit.ly/3ZhPw1q
Omnia bit.ly/3HJiGgV
8300XP bit.ly/3FnlrWs
► COMPARABLE AMPLIFIERS
Audiolab 6000A/6000A Play amzn.to/398qSrJ / bit.ly/3AiW43w
Audiolab 9000A bit.ly/3WfuIWW • bit.ly/3ZhPw1q
Yamaha R-N2000A bit.ly/3RGwr6d
Naim Uniti Atom bit.ly/3iCofCl (on sale, cut for time)
NAD C 399 bit.ly/3QwWPgx • bit.ly/3aiYZBt
Marantz 40N bit.ly/3vrf93T
Bluesound Powernode bit.ly/3jPxG40
► TESTING THE AUDIOLAB 7000A
SPEAKERS
MartinLogan Motion XT F100 bit.ly/3xgyXql
DefTech DM80 bit.ly/3Z3Owhk • bit.ly/40a59bj
Klipsch 8000F MKII bit.ly/3whkdb3
Klipsch Heresy IV bit.ly/3OF9UEb
Klipsch Cornwall IV bit.ly/3Lg3HMR
Focal Vestia N1 bit.ly/3TG6a94
COMPONENTS
MiniDSP amzn.to/3ntpiYE
Cambridge Audio AXN10 bit.ly/3LP3Vhx • bit.ly/3KMWeIx
TURNTABLE
Alva TT2 bit.ly/3tWwdxd
SUBWOOFER
Bowers & Wilkins: bit.ly/3F1diFQ • amzn.to/3is8nX1
Wireless Kit: amzn.to/3MhA7ao
TVs
TCL XL 98” amzn.to/3kbj4hB
Apple 4K TV: amzn.to/3em0YUp
MEDIA
Anyma amzn.to/3Thcyn0
Kat Leon bit.ly/3FP3rVc
Fiona Apple Tidal bit.ly/TidalFiona
Lady Blackbird amzn.to/3rj5ARc
More Demo Music bit.ly/3yfghqU
SPEAKERS STANDS + CABLES
Speaker Stands bit.ly/3xsoe9M, bit.ly/2VOs7p3
My Cables: custom, not avail for purchase
Similar DIY Cables: bit.ly/3Px4Jan
Interconnects: bit.ly/3D314M8, bit.ly/3N6NBri
Cable Management amzn.to/3ZcunWP • amzn.to/3GJtf5C
DIAGNOSTICS
Room EQ Wizard
Measurement Tools: bit.ly/3MsYzpR
► An AMP with HDMI that SOUNDS GOOD! Audiolab Amp 7000A Review
00:00 AUDIOLAB 7000A REVIEW (INTRO)
00:44 7000A AMPLIFIER SPECS
01:07 DIGITAL CONNECTIONS & HDMI
01:42 ANALOG INPUTS & BLUETOOTH
02:11 7000A LCD SCREEN, MENUS, TONE CONTROLS
03:03 RECOMMENDED SPEAKER PAIRINGS
03:50 AMPLIFIER WITH HDMI ARC
04:26 AUDIOLAB SOUND
04:55 PAIRED WITH HARD TO DRIVE SPEAKERS
05:30 MIDRANGE & DIALOG PERFORMANCE
05:50 TREBLE PERFORMANCE
06:24 SOUNDSTAGE & DYNAMICS
07:15 DOWNSIDES + MORE ON HDMI & CEC
08:05 AUDIOLAB vs AUDIOLAB (6000A/7000A/9000A)
08:58 YAMAHA vs AUDIOLAB
09:41 WRAP UP: AMPLIFIER BEST VALUE
10:04 KRISTI’S THOUGHTS
10:56 ANDREW RANT
13:19 TONE CONTROL WORK AROUND + ADDING DIRAC
14:46 AUDIOLAB vs NAD C 399
16:01 AUDIOLAB vs MARANTZ 40N
17:36 BUDGET AMP ALTERNATIVE (AUDIOLAB vs BLUESOUND)
19:34 AV RECEIVER OR 7000A
22:58 QUESTION OF THE DAY
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
TCL 98” amzn.to/3kbj4hB
LG 83" OLED: amzn.to/3tppAmy
SONY 85" TV: amzn.to/3ygOW7S
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IVORY RUG amzn.to/3WyJrw7
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EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/3PcJzO4
► MY REFERENCE AUDIO AND HOME THEATER SYSTEM
POWER
Audiolab bit.ly/3ZhPw1q
Technics bit.ly/3bcE3fi
LOUDSPEAKERS
Polk bit.ly/3LtiF1N • bit.ly/3RcQR5Z
Q Acoustics bit.ly/3b0IbQ2
MartinLogan bit.ly/3xgyXql
SPEAKER STANDS
Budget amzn.to/3DD0UJX
Reference bit.ly/3xsoe9M
TURNTABLE
TT2 bit.ly/3tWwdxd
TVs
OLED: bit.ly/3AzeD6y
LED: amzn.to/3ygOW7S
QLED: amzn.to/3biyRXu
HOME THEATER
Receivers: bit.ly/3n2lTje ($) bit.ly/3DyHEjb ($$)
Soundbars: amzn.to/39hJ1Xz ($) bit.ly/3OS72nG ($$)
In Ceiling Speakers: bit.ly/3I3gAbg
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#audiolab #hifi #amplifier

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

🎯 GET IT HERE: bit.ly/3YKWQSh • bit.ly/3EnReWP 👉CLICK THANKS ☝to highlight your question &/or support the channel! ☝Looking for something in the video? Click MORE above. ☝NO OUTSIDE LINKS OR PERSONAL INFO. PLEASE STAY ON TOPIC AND BE RESPECTFUL

[@timlitton]

Have you ever thought about doing a “behind the scenes” on what goes into a review ? I’m not sure people realize that you spend weeks doing one (from what I hear). 😊 Everything from lining up the gear from manufacturers, to testing/listening, to topic notes/script, to filming, to editing, to posting, replying to comments, and final tracking. BTW, someone turned me on to Anyma. I’m digging it.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We've considered it and we may bring you that video. Appreciate the request.

[@annebokma4637]

​@@andrewrobinsonreviews I would like to see that too. Specially when you output a lot of content, people don't understand how you do that and still give each item the time it deserves

[@redsea866]

We want every receipt of when they push products back. Lol

[@LanceB1960]

I think Kristi should video and narrate a "how does Andrew do it" episode.

[@Alvenek]

I would love that video too, all of the work you guys do should be recognized. With that being said, I’m quite sure such video would not be “worth it” as it’s probably not something that cand bring in the views…

[@leadershippush3808]

I really don’t have any interest in this product, but your reviews are phenomenal and I look forward to them every week. Thank you and Kristi for what y’all do for the community!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I appreciate that!

[@therealelguapo]

Yours and Kristis back and forth is the most informative part of the video. It put everything in perspective

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@whiskyenjoy]

Yes, is the correct answer. I'm going to get the Audiolab 7000a. Thanks for the review and greetings from Germany, Constantin

[@cameronkrause4712]

Nice that Andrew checked back on the addition of the room control and tone adjustment solution. BTW Kristi, I also love Class AB.

[@se7enity648]

I remember my old 8000S with fond memories. Audiolab are always recommended.

[@lonniefarmer7067]

Yes, it was worth it and as I am an A/V nut on both stereo and 11.2 channel I will lean back and enjoy my 8015 and the recent upgrades on the programing I got.

[@195516Z]

A resounding YES! It was worth it! I have been in a state of irresolution and hesitancy about which Audiolab to pull the trigger on. I feel good about what to do now. Thanks for another fun review, Andrew and Kristi.

[@Kukkema]

So, did you buy it?

[@Firebottleman]

The lack of TONE CONTROLS is what's holding me back from buying another Audiolab product. Thanks for the video you guys. Excellent as usual.

[@bksve6505]

That's why I am using my Audiolab 8300a together with a DAC that offers tone control via parametric EQ ( the RME ADI 2 DAC). Tone control should be in the chain somewhere.

[@keithbrowes1974]

Why on earth would you need tone controls with such a good sounding amp?

[@rw80]

@@keithbrowes1974 it can be useful for bad recordings.

[@keithbrowes1974]

@@rw80 fair comment, though I've never felt the need for them myself , I think perhaps I've just learned to live with dull sounding recordings, each to their own and differing views on things is what makes life interesting 🤔🤓

[@carlitosgomez71]

The amp is quite neutral if the recording is rubbish your just adding more distortion to the chain.

[@PaoloMix09]

I got the 6000A because of your reviews and enjoy it. The 7000A looks sweet especially with the HDMI and MQA capabilities. Very very tempting for sure.

[@DeMorcan]

As someone who listens to music of all genres, I am always curious about the sound stage and imaging of the different amp so I can make a choice this summer. This is really not mentioned when discussing amps with internal DACs. Some of the other choices you mentioned are of my list.

[@gavinrosie5417]

Thanks for the review. I love your no BS style. I was hoping that you would throw in the Rotel 1592 mk2 as a comparison too.

[@aceofspades6667]

I’m def a 2 channel hifi purist but would never besmirch a product for having hdmi. I’m far more interested in I2S connection and onboard dac performance of the integrated. Also I think ARC can be highly useful for 2 channel music especially if you have room modes and integration of subs. This seems like a fantastic option for the $.

[@kadajawi6567]

ARC won't help you with room modes and a sub. It's just about getting digital audio to the amp. Manufacturers can do room correction without ARC, and they can not do room correction with ARC. Same with a dedicated sub output. However, manufacturers who offer ARC / eARC are probably more likely to offer room correction and a sub output, as they are less purist focused (or bone headed).

[@larrypoulton6401]

Thanks for an informative and entertaining review as usual. I have the 6000A but chose to use a Schiit Modi 3 DAC instead of the internal DAC as the internal didn't do it for me. I am very happy with the sound thru my KEF R300 speakers. I am not interested in the HDMI (but agree it should be available) and the extra power is probably not required in my medium sized studio. Given my setup, do you think I would benefit from an upgrade to the 7000A?

[@attrktmarketing4582]

Hello from London U.K., what a very nicely considered video. I really liked the idea of hooking up the MiniDSP. Would you consider making a video short on how you did that with the 7000a? Thank you Mike

[@Skipow10]

looks great! totally on my radar now

[@charlesking678]

Intergrateds are my favorite product yall review. Good to see audiolan come with a reasonably priced winner like this.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Audiolab has been killing it lately, IMHO.

[@feelgeorge]

Well worth the wait. Another excellent review guys! Question: How is the pairing btw the 7000A & Martin Logan XT B100 book shelf speaker?

[@Larwiz]

I gotta say: your commentary on 2 channel listening with a receiver was ALTOGETHER SPOT ON!!! I couldn't have said it any better! I have been enjoying 2 channel and multichannel music listening with my Yamaha receiver for almost 2 years, and the sound quality is very good, easily rivaling separate 2 channel setups. So I was pleasantly surprised to hear you guys telling the absolute TRUTH about this! Thank you so much!

[@kadajawi6567]

Comparing with what though? Can an AVR compete with a Technics R1000? A Pass Labs? Is it even as good as the Audiolab 9000A? Good enough? Perhaps. but some chase every last bit of quality, and if an AVR is THAT good, what excuse does any stereo amp have to not be as good? Would you be driving Focal Diablo Utopias with a Denon AVC-X4700h? Heck, with the Anthem recently tested? Or would you pair it with something better? (Granted, room EQ is useful and might make more of a difference than a marginally better amp.)

[@Larwiz]

@@kadajawi6567 I can only speak from experience. When I first heard my benchmark speakers (B&W 702 S2), they were paired with a Pioneer VSX LX504 AVR that sounded wonderful! It was $999. When I heard that pairing, I was convinced that I didn't need to get a separates system. A good AVR was all I needed. Especially since I love home theater just about as much as music, it works for me. I would be willing to bet you couldn't distinguish an AVR from a 2 channel system in a thorough blind test.

[@Larwiz]

@@kadajawi6567 Also, I've been to the shows. I've listened to pricey separate setups. And then I come home and listen to my rig, and so far, I don't feel like I've missed a beat. People get so caught up in the components, and believe that you have to spend crazy amounts of money to get good sound, when that really isn't the case. My entire system costs under $2500, and everyone that has heard it has said only good things. So I can only speak from my personal experience.

[@kadajawi6567]

@@Larwiz Depends on the amps, but I've heard the difference between say the Powernode and 6000A or between an Icepower and a Purifi based amp. In either case I thought the first option was wonderful, until I heard what the speakers were actually capable of.

[@Larwiz]

@@kadajawi6567 Right. See in this field, there's always good, better, and best. And many of us are chasing the best, while we're already at good or better. My argument is that an AVR is fully capable of producing very good sound. Sound that could seriously contend with some Integrated or even separate systems. When I play cds through my Blu-ray player and receiver, you can't tell me that it isn't detailed and beautiful. I think it would challenge many CD transport/dac/separate systems. At the very least, it wouldn't be embarrassed by any of them.

[@guyb7005]

Audiolab has a very intriguing aspect to its design and performance and features. I would have more readily compared this unit to the Rotel A14MkII or similar than any NAD or Yamaha product - otherwise, great review.

[@ThousandThrills]

Thank you so much, that was great and it shows you are the best reviewers! At that budget price, I agree that would make it my first choice but I still can't find it in Canada I believe so the Anthem currently on sale could be very interesting but I wish the 7000a was like the NAD 3050 with the meters, tone controls AND 2 pairs of speaker terminals, that would have made it the best of all time... And I don't know about other people but the bad reviews on Amazon on the Powernode will always make me hesitant to give them a chance... Many are dying early on you know... But I'm still dreaming about the Yamaha rn2000a but would probably be happy with the 7000a for a few years but I would always be thinking about upgrading again, that's the big difference... Have a great day!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We've had a Powernode since 2021 and have had no problem with it.

[@footagemissing]

Great review thank you. I probably would have bought this if it was available when I bought my NAD C 700.

[@ivanfilatov7913]

Great reviews, I always enjoy watching your videos! For, if it doesn't have tone controls and/or no subwoofer connections... I'm out! And are Technics speakers going to be reviewed or not? Just curious!

[@michaelbauer6126]

Another in depth review of a very good product. I personally had an Audiolab 8300 integrated and was pleased with its performance for price. I’ve since sold it for a vintage Luxman 505u and what a huge difference in sonic quality. I was hoping that you could get the new version of my Luxman and compare it to the McIntosh MA-5300 at around the same price($6500). Thanks again for another informative video. Please keep them coming!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Sadly, Luxman requires a level of control in the review process that we don't agree with which is why you'll likely never seen them on the channel.

[@michaelbauer6126]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews ok, thanks Andrew. I can’t say that I blame you for not reviewing their products if they need any control at all. Your channel is always honest and that’s why I’ll continue to watch and look forward to your next review!👍

[@MH-rl9ep]

As I’ve said before regarding Audiolab, due to its versatile pre/integrated/power options, a Schiit Loki or Lokius can easily be inserted in the signal path and voila - tone controls!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Be sure to tune in Thursday then...

[@johnboard7770]

Perhaps a clue regarding the new “crazy” product Jason Stoddard has been teasing?

[@MH-rl9ep]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Will do! Hope you are reviewing a Loki or Lokius!

[@giannislarch]

Great video, thank you! I loved that you liked the Audiolab.. to be honest, it is one of the brands I noticed from very early years.. I 1st saw them when I was 20+something.. In a UK hi fi magazine and the designing outside (and inside) impressed me. I said, Wow, this is how an amplifier must be! 😀 Soon i had the chance to see and hear it from close, and it didn't disappointed me at all.. The perceived quality was high, the feeling when using it, excellent.. (especially these 2 classic knobs for input selection and volume control) which I still love seeing them on products, and the sound! Nice work, keep going! 😀

[@jeffk433]

Thanks to you both for this excellent review, for the hack tip and for the comps to a wide range of options. I had been waiting for it. You mentioned preferring something other than Play-Fi for streaming & in the comments mention a few options (1 link didn't work). Could touch on if that means bypassing the 7000A's DAC & if there is a streamer that best compliments the Audiolab sound profile? Will be a new to streaming user.

[@gronthomson]

I just purchased the 7000A and a Bluesound Node. Haven't hooked them up, yet, but looking forward to some fabulous sounding streaming music!

[@Impackon]

Again a very nice and honest review and comparison to a receiver

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I appreciate that.

[@AyushChaudhary-qc9gd]

Hello from Canada - I hooked up to your videos for almost few years now. Thanks for the all the videos from both of you. I hv so far a 6000A ans 8300A. looking to see your review for 7000N for those who hv a powerfull Amp. appreciate all the videos /comments .

[@geevee1045]

Another great review guys and one I've been looking forward to. I think you may even be first to review the new Audiolab 7000A. I have a question, perhaps you can answer. From a purely audio quality perspective, does the 6000A and 7000A sound pretty much the same? And is the 6000A discontinued or does it remain in the product lineup. Thanks for any clarification on this that you can provide. Thx again.

[@69leehammond]

Just picked one up in black for £1099, a lovely match for my 6000CDT. Use with my old DENON 3600 AV Amp to power main L & R channels. AWESOME !!

[@GameHaven_365]

Hi, I would like to do the same thing with you, can you let me know how to connect and x3800 and 7000a? Is it X3600 (Front) pre-out and plug into 7000a's input "Power"?? And if I would like to stream Spotify, I can use HEOS to stream, or I have to buy another network player? Thank you

[@maxpower78-15]

Cool!! Happy sunday!!!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for joining us!

[@cabomusico]

Hi Andrew and Kristi, from Portugal. I really enjoyed your review of the Audiolab 7000A. I especially agree with you, on Audiolab's failure to include tone control, after all, technically, there's nothing special about being included in the amp, in my opinion. On the issue of just using two channels having an AV amplifier, I've always done that with my old Onkyo TX-SR605 7.1 HT receiver and I've always liked the sound quality, despite being outdated. Also, I've always used Onkyo's bi-amping capability with the bi-wiring of the Acoustic Energy Aegys Evo 3. By the way, what is your opinion about the compatibility of the 7000A with the AE Aegys? Thank you very much and congratulations for your excellent work. All the best to you both.

[@scottmackenzie6699]

Your reviews are great learning opportunities and rabbit holes to bungee down. Signed, a dormant audiophile.

[@AsadNazif]

I chuckled a bit at “power-lab” 😂 ahhh the fun moments of the video. 🎉🎉😂

[@frommatorav1]

Yes. at around the 18 min mark, Andrew was announcing the merger no one knew was happening. lol

[@mrteddybass6084]

Great review! Can’t wait to hear this one!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for tuning in! Appreciate it!

[@KristiWright]

Thanks for joining us!

[@JustBrowsing777]

Great review! I have been searching for the best way to upgrade my system and this amp and the 7000N streamer looks like a really interesting combo!

[@JustBrowsing777]

I ordered the 7000A, very excited, albeit I have to wait before it'll be available for delivery. Pairing it with the Monitor Audio silver 200 7G and Bluesound Node 2i streamer transport. Have obviously not heard that combination yet but very confident I will be seriously happy in my listening room (which is a semi-small living room).

[@thepuma2012]

@@JustBrowsing777 tell us when you have listened! And compare it to what you have now please....

[@JustBrowsing777]

@@thepuma2012 Sure, will do 🙂

[@umrryan]

Good morning friends! I'm looking forward to this one when I get some time later today. Have a great Sunday.

[@mikehuntington4440]

You guys do such a great job. Thank you for all your hard work!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Our pleasure!

[@tommysshinebox1661]

I just snagged an Outlaw 2220 monoblock to power a BW HTM71 S3 center. I have 702 S2 Signatures. It’s great! Have you guys thought to bring Outlaw into the fold and maybe do a Rogue Amp series for the smaller no name brands that are outside the big 7? Thanks for great videos!

[@garywoodcock8020]

My first amp was a NAD 3020 ,a long time ago ,what a great amp .

[@thelawman4684]

Mine, too, I bought my 3020 in 1988! I am still using an old NAD 214 power amp I bought in the mid-nineties. Out of all the gear I've bought over the years, the move from an integrated amp to a more powerful separate pre and power amps was the most notable in sound quality. Turn up the volume and the weight behind the sound of the NAD 214 power amp really kicks you in the chest! I was shocked at the change, and no other "upgrade" has ever made as much of a difference. I don't think I'd bother with NAD now, since their move to class D amps.

[@dougg1075]

I love the spectrum analyzer!! Hope those are coming back. I have an old Parasound that has it.

[@patmellen7523]

Thank you Andrew and Kristi for your review. I will be buying a new amp down the road to replace my old Denon. The review helped mske my decision much easier. Thanks🌞

[@25aceface]

Great review! On the question of 7000A vs POWERNODE, I would say it comes down to use-case. I have an A14MKII that on paper is quite similar to the 7000A (minus the wonderful, wonderful inclusion of HDMI on the Audiolab) and I use it for a dedicated 2-channel listening zone. I have two POWERNODEs, one in a bedroom and the other driving my Patio setup. For a Zone 2-3 type of setup, the POWERNODE cannot be beat in terms of performance/value, especially with BluOS. For home theatre, get an AVR. However, for a dedicated 2-channel listening space, a dedicated integrated like the Audiolab 7000A (or separates) will always reign supreme.

[@berkobaba1]

Interesting… would you consider replacing Powernode with the 7000? I currently have the PowerNode with 6 ohms speakers and I’m not sure they sound the best with it

[@25aceface]

Definitely. Especially for dedicated 2-channel listening. I have a large room, and the Powernode often needed to be near max volume to drive a pair of LS50 Metas sufficiently for my listening position. I moved the Powernode to the patio where I can't listen too loudly without disrupting the neighbors anyway. :)

[@soulispan9997]

Hey Andrew, great review as always! How do you think 7000a will pair with monitor audio rx2?

[@michaelgatti3811]

Another helpful review. Subtle differences moving up to the 9000 for not so subtle price increase. Curious if you would ever do an updated review on the Billie MK2 upgrade since you did the original Billie. 7000A and new Billie are close in price and would be interesting to hear your value assessment.

[@zardoz2627]

I'm already at the "why didn't they include hdmi? stage"for a couple years now

[@bvanbiezen3008]

Love the design. When I have to replace my Sansui SAP-201V, It will shurely be on my shortlist of contenters.

[@dawaynecleckley8673]

Great comparison between the Audio Lab and Powernode! I was waiting for that comparison. Thank you so much! Especially for powering the R700.

[@KristiWright]

I got you, DaWayne! :)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Glad you found the review helpful, and thanks for watching through to the end.

[@dawaynecleckley8673]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Always! I look forward to Sundays with you all. 👍

[@dawaynecleckley8673]

@@KristiWright 😂 Thank you!

[@westcoast708]

Best too, you both hope your Sunday rocks .

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Same to you! Thanks for joining us!

[@KristiWright]

Same to you, WC.

[@pawelzaorski9158]

Hi Andrew! This is a review I have been waiting😏😄😂 Would 7000A be a significant improvement to Denon AVR-X3700H when use to power fronts?

[@johnmerriman274]

Great review as always. How would you compare the 7000 to the Leak 130 or 230?

[@markwasilow2173]

Great Review!

[@adamkrawiec9234]

Hey! Very good review as always! Can you tell more about room correction , and would it work with 6000a too? I'm very courius about it. Cheers from Poland!

[@adamlink7561]

I do love their products. I’m hoping for a review of the 8300. If not, is it worth the buy and use my 6000a play as a pre with KLH model5’s? My gut tells me that would be great.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

The 8300 is a brilliant stereo amp.

[@habiburrehamanshaik6146]

Yet again solid review. Do you think b&w 603 s2 AE will be a good match with Audiolab 7000a? Thanks in advance

[@bsbabcock]

For a nice standmount speaker pairing.. How would you recommend sub integration if only using the 7000a? Once again awesome thorough review.

[@brianlewis5042]

Audiolab make great products at a price to please many people. They have style and performance tucked away in a beautiful package. The future is here and whether or not you need an HMDI port, just give it to me. You don’t want to be that person after seeming it work now has to either get rid of their current piece or have to add another piece of equipment, thereby complicating things and adding another point for failure or problems.

[@-loki-7727]

Nice review as always. You mentioned not being able to connect a powered sub, but on the 6k you can go from 6k pre out to sub rca in, then sub out to the the RCA "power" input on the 6k to use the amp. The 7k has the same RCA board so they should work the same. Page 7 of the 6k owners manual.

[@wollymolly]

Wow, this has me intrigued. Great review. How would this pair with the Bucharest s400 mk2?

[@piotrmamos]

A great review I've been waiting for, thank you Andrew and Kristi. My question - how would you compare it to Roksan Attessa sound and power wise?

[@KristiWright]

Andrew has answered this in the comments below.

[@abdoeraouftitus8066]

Hi great review as always how does the 6000A vs naim nait 5si which one would you prefer thanks

[@TriAmpHiFi]

You scream "HDMI", I scream "MAIN IN". Congratulations AudioLab. 🔈🔉🔊

[@TriAmpHiFi]

"mono" or "bridge" mode switch........................... Now just add that to the "main in" section & offer a separate duplicate specification power amp. Like the Iota PA3 implementation. That would be the versatility every integrated should have. The bonus is now effectively running monoblocks easily & most economically. Plus, presumably, the manufacturer has the ultimate advantage over any competitor for the upgrade. 🔈🔉🔊

[@ricdavis7974]

Quick question: For a 2.1 setup with 50/50 mix of movies and music, would you choose the Cinema 50, Sony 5000ES or Audiolab 7000a with a powernode for streaming?

[@barrettwbenton]

Great review (and spirited back-and-forth) here. Were I in the market to tear out the middle of my 'fi (I'm not, since everything works nicely together, and via one remote at that), I'd jump for the 7000A in a heartbeat. I'm strictly a 2.0 listener, and while HDMI doesn't move my meter one iota, the fact that my beloved has hung a 52" screen above this system of mine means it would actually play a bit nicer with the Audiolab than my somewhat-aging NAD-based system does.

[@1Hiprascal]

Hi Barrett. I am also a 2.0 listener. I just run a digital optical cable from my TV into my DAC. This may be a stand alone unit or built-in on the amp, like the 7000a. Super simple.

[@dxLANI]

Thanks for the great review. I am going to replace my Powernode with the Adiolab (in combination with the Wiim Mini)! @The comparison of Powernode and Audiolab. I guess one of the downsides of the Audiolab is that it does not have a sub out and that you can't adjust the crossover. This was is a really neat feature of the Powernode. Probably, another reason for the miniDSP (great idea btw) * Reasons: My set up is a bit weird: DJ Mixer + Phono + TV. The Bluesound Powernode seemed to be a device that could do it all but the problem is that the analogue phono input is being digitized. This causes a small delay which makes the amplifier unusable as a DJ Aplifier because the headphone-out of the mixer and speaker-out are never in sync. This is probably a very rare use case but I am now hoping for the Audiolab to jump in.

[@jhiss100]

I want this. But I already have powered speakers. If I were to change those out, I'd be looking at this product for sure.

[@DynotoeTube]

I like the way you think. It would be nice to throw in a Schiit Lokius, but would need L/R ins and outs.

[@improvedgarage]

this is the most intriguing review since the AXR100 :)

[@mikebassett1663]

Really good explanation, I like your advice on other aspects of HIFI too. Did you ever test your miniDSP/Dirac idea with a subwoofer or two. Could it also work with the 9000a and Cambridge Audio 81 as well? I am out of date with HIFI advances over the past 30 years so I am hunting for speakers that are particularly good for classical piano, jazz and vocals. Any recommendations? I have seen the amphion argon range, how do you rate them? Anything would be better than my ancient budget system and allowing for inflation much cheaper too. I am retired and vividly aware of technological improvement and relatively decreasing costs but for something like the amphions I am very far from a dealer and reviews help me decide if city break audition is worth it and because few dealers stock a wide range of competing speakers and compatible amps then a visit requires researching dealers too.

[@caseyjones2239]

I got the Onkyo rz50 after watching you're review my first ever avr or surround sound besides the sound bars I paired it with Klipsch 280fa center 404c ll and 600m ll and a vintage technics sb-a53 3way twin woofers natural effect system for the back

[@caseyjones2239]

Took me 3 months to get it sounding great didn't realize how big the speakers were goin to be I got a small room but i got it I don't like Dirac or the room correction and leave the eq flat I haven't figured that out yet I don't turn it up past 45 much

[@user-fz6hq6op7d]

Hello the wife and myself watch all your reviews and they are great Have just purchased the Audiolab 7000a and wow the sound quality is amazing . Have used Technics amps before but this is a different league Have the 7000a with B&W 601 original ones from the early 90s and Fluance RT85N plus the Sony Haps and all sound great.

[@marko-182]

Hi. Is it possible to turn led display off while music is playing? Tnx

[@carlitosgomez71]

​@@marko-182nope just use some black electric tape over the led if it bothers you

[@ozkronos]

Just checked and the 6000a can also do dsp thing. It actually says that is what it is for. Thanks!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

This trick will work with ALL Audiolab products.

[@stephenbeaumont-adam7702]

Demo'd this with the Monitor Audio Silver 100 and loved it. Just wish it has airplay 😩

[@user-xg7wr4cu4z]

How the 7000A compares to Roksan Attessa lets say about the mid-bass and bass Regime? If you had to pick the one with more tight control and more warmer ? I want to pair one of them or Marantz 40n with SonusFaber Sonetto II. Dac and hdmi and look gives maybe an advantage to 7000a but what are your thoughts ? Thanks and awesome job 🏆😀

[@joaofranco3288]

Great review.This amp is better than Cambridge CX81?In features it´s better but is about the sound i ask

[@lbudt29]

If you already have a two channel receiver you can ad a black box to get 5.1, 7.1 surround. It also has ARC, digital coax, optical to get old receivers there. A cheaper way to go .

[@mrrkingg]

Thanks for review. i am new to this hobby i used rega elex-r amp before. Do you think it can be a better choice than rega elex? I don't quite understand why we use mini dsd. Is it just for connecting a subwoofer?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I have no idea about the Elex so I can't speak on it. Mini DSP (link in desc) allows you to tune your speakers to "perfection" either manually using PEQ or by adding Dirac as well as giving you the potential to add up to 4 subwoofers which can also be EQ'd for better performance.

[@geographyinaction7814]

It is the lack of tone controls that have made me continue to buy Rotel gear over the Audiolab. I would love to set-up the 7000 with some Q Acoustics, but my range of music is very eclectic, including a lot of older music. Without tone controls, you sometimes find yourself stopping a track as you cannot compensate for an older recording...even with remasters considered. The Rotel and Audiolab both give excellent sound for the money. I recently replaced my old Rotel 10 series amp with the Tribute A11, it is for our smallish living room, and is excellent; even without the DAC, the Tidal stream is awesome as the Bluetooth is great. The Audiolab would have been great for the man-cave, but without the tone controls, I think I will stay with Rotel.

[@TriAmpHiFi]

This AudioLab has the prerequisite "pre out/main-in" loop. One may insert a Schitt 6 band EQ or a digital DSP in there. It's outstanding flexibility. 🔈🔉🔊

[@ivanfilatov7913]

Rotel is much better than Audiolab..

[@gokhanersan8561]

We kept the a11 and returned the Audiolab -that sounded anemic with older recordings and Amazon Prime movies.

[@1337sim1]

Also, the pre/pwr mode may work with the MiniDSP 2x4 but I'm concerned about the sequential ADC+DAC conversions. Wouldn't this affect the sound quality? The 2x4 is known to have a mediocre DAC... I have a feeling it would be better to use the MiniDSP only to low pass and EQ the subwoofers using the Audiolab's preout (the main speakers playing the untouched full range signal). Better yet, pretty sure you would get a better sound with a MiniDSP Flex running has the preamp into the Audiolab has a power amplifier + subwoofers. 😋

[@t00lshack]

Great review, also had a fun game on when the little dust on your chin would get removed.

[@Bensonpainting]

Great review as always. The beard dangle should start its own channel. It's all I was paying attention to.

[@KristiWright]

At least it wasn't hanging from his nose! LOL.

[@joes3800]

Thank you for a different take on audio reviews, Andrew and Kristi! I am curious: you just recently reviewed Parasound products as well. How do the latest AudioLab products compare to something like Parasound's A23 or A23+? (At least in your opinion, of course!)

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

They are comparable however, A23/+ is just an amp. You would need to invest in a preamp like this one bit.ly/3FVe9JF, however even then you still would be lacking some of the functionality the Audiolab provides. The Parasound will give you more power should you need it. I like Parasound products and have owned them in the past. Some may feel they're brighter than the Audiolab.

[@MullerKim]

Hello Andrew! Thank you for your high quality review!! I got a question about Amp I wish to choice best Amp for me. Audiolab 7000a / NAD c399 / marantz 40n are my choice. I am using Smart TV for music sauce. Streming is not necessary. But it is better with striming. Which one is better to me between 7000a and c399 and 40n? My speaker is Monitoraudio gold 100 😊

[@themarklar8759]

QOTD: Yes it does seem the 7000a is the budget king to beat. After watching the review, that's a real punch in the nuts I can't get HDMI on the 9000 but I can on the 7000. Sigh. Such a tease Audiolab. Such a tease. That said, the 7000 looks fantastic. I'm hoping you all will also do the 8300 review! 😉

[@MechAdv]

1800$ is considered a “budget” 2-channel amplifier these days? I’d call it upper mid-fi approaching 2 grand. I consider the 500-1000$ price category mid-fi for 2-channel amplification, and under 500$ to be budget category.

[@rreiss60]

For tone control, Schiit Loki could be used between the preamp out and power amp input??? I do this with an NAD integrated (326BEE).

[@sbatty65227]

A fantastic review. I'm going to replace my Rega Brio with the Audiolab 7000a at some point this year due to recently getting into streaming at home via a CA CXNv2. The last amp I had with tone controls was the NAD C320 BEE (lasted me twenty years) and then I used the Source Direct button to bypass them. Can I ask if you tried the headphone amp on the 7000A?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I did not try the headphone amp as I just don't use them.

[@bearclaw5115]

I've tried the headphone amp on the 6000a and it's lack luster. I think they add headphone jacks just for the spec sheet but realistically, if you are an audiophile, you are going to want a dedicated headphone amp.

[@andrewbrazier9664]

7000 worth auditioning with a Rega Elex Mk 4 - about £100 ( 115 USD) more in UK. Although I know US market can be more expensive with UK centric hi Fi

[@andrewbrazier9664]

@@bearclaw5115 I guess it's a case of trying headphone outputs on other amplifiers with a reputable dealer alongside a dedicated headphone amplifier Then weighing up the combined cost vs the one box Intergrated options 👍

[@ssquared30]

Like you, I’d prefer to have an integrated over tons of boxes and wires. I’m wondering how a 7000a would compare to my current setup…Emotiva DC-1 preamp/dac, emotiva xpa-1L mono blocks, driving Sonus Faber Lumina V? Would the 7000a give me the same or better performance without as much clutter? If not, would going to the 9000 get me there? Separation is really important to me, I love hearing all the different layers

[@WillieBloom]

I *always* wanted HDMI. Like forever! Not only do I want HDMI, I’ve been hunting for a headphone amp that will peel off the audio, give me the full surround sound codec simulated in two channel headphones, and pass the full 4K 120hz Dolby Vision/HDR/++ video to my TV. If anyone doubts that this is possible, my old Denon AVR which was from the 2K generation would give me the lossless audio codecs through the headphone jack. Don’t know which DAC chip they were using but it was awesome. My current generation Marantz SR8015 doesn’t do what its older cousin the Denon did. Rookie mistake on my part for not demoing the AVR before purchasing. Just this week I took my Sennheiser HD800S and demoed one of Yamaha’s top shelf Aventage AVRs. Yamaha was my second choice when I purchased my old Denon. I can tell you that Yamaha does not overlook the headphone output. The “enhanced” and the “AI” functions work through headphones and is bangin! I might have to sell my Marantz and get the Yamaha…. But that’s not financially realistic so I’m still on the hunt for a middleware solution.

[@Sebastian.Berensen-Bass]

Hey great presentation! Could the Focal Aria 936 a good match for the Audiolab? Thanks

[@Boxkerp]

You hit on the nail, at least when it comes to my take on Audiolab products. I've been interested in their gear and almost bought the 6000 a, but the lack of tone controls kept me from doing so. I would like to know more of your take on your experiment with the minidsp. I'm wondering if the a/d to d/a process in the minidsp changes the sound/quality of the Audiolab. I don't if you remember but I asked something similar during the last live chat you guys had. Except, I want to use a minidsp flex. I know the flex is its own thing but I hear it has higher-performing circuitry than the standard minidsp and I want it to be as transparent to my Mac as possible. My plan would be to ignore the flex's volume control and use it like a normal minidsp 2x4 HD. By the way, that pre/power mode is a cool feature. You don't see that too often. Similar to the pre-out/ amp in jumpers on my Mcintosh and Outlaw RR2160 MKlI, a feature that makes these units so flexible. I find that I want more than just tone controls, I want granular frequency controls. Until they start putting parametric eq in integrateds, I need pre-outs/main ins or at the very least pre-outs to into a DSP unit and then into a power amp.

[@raycimbalnik5159]

Can't say exactly what it is,but I'm not fond of the looks of the brand. Nothing wrong really,just doesn't grab me for some reason. In my opinion it reminds of a digital tuner separate look. I wouldn't rule it out for it,but I'd have to hear it before I'd consider a purchase. Great video as always!

[@macthebest2001]

I also bought the 7000a and tested it extensively with the KEF R5. It's certainly a nice amplifier, but I didn't find any difference to the Denon X3800h in terms of sound; the Audiolab shouldn't be vastly superior to the Denon in Stereo mode?

[@colincarr6797]

Brilliant review, love the channel. Do you recommend this + Wiim Pro or NAD C700 (about same price in UK).

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you for your support, I would get the Audiolab and a separate streamer like the Wiim or the Cambridge I used in the video over the C700.

[@colincarr6797]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thank you !!!

[@speedwolf5212]

Did you get a chance to test the phono? Any difference from the 6000a? On your 6000a review you said it had hum/noise, and you had to change receptacles. Did the 7000a do that? I ask because I don’t have the option to change receptacles (unless I run an extension cord across my living room). In reading the product info, they talk about improving the phono, but the specs listed don’t seem any different

[@BradyJohnson1]

Hey guys, another great video! How would you say the 7000a compares sonically to the Musical Fidelity m3si?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

MF makes great sounding amps however, in terms of features that I use day-to-day the MF simply lacks connection options and from my recollection they don't have balance controls either. If you already have the MF, you could add this bit.ly/3qRkAEV to get some of the convenience options found in the 7000a.

[@BradyJohnson1]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I already had the Bluesound node, so the connection options weren't an issue for me. The MF amps don't have tone controls either. I'm thinking that must be an audiophile purist thing, although I always prefer a little bump to the bass, so I set that in the Bluesone node. I was on the fence between the Audiolab and the MF for my B&W 706-s2 speakers, and was just wondering how the 2 compared sonically.

[@roberthart9886]

GOOD STUFF AS USUAL. IMHO (50+ years in hi-end) a very good 2 channel system is superior to multi channel at the same price point. My TV system is a PS Audio GCC 250 purchased new ~ 15 years ago + Swan Diva IIs, through which I often hear sound behind me and well off to either side, just depends on the recording

[@AR-ki7hg]

How does it compare to the Cambridge CXA81?

[@jmpersic]

Serious question here for Andrew, as someone who hasn't "ARC"ed his setup yet: You mention controlling volume through Apple TV's remote, but what does that connection look like? Is the Audiolab connected to the Apple TV via HDMI, or is it both AudioLab and AppleTV connected to TV via two separate HDMI cables? I've watched your channel for years now, and you always talk about the convenience of ARC and eARC. I'd love to know more about the setup with these technologies, and how components are "networked", as that can really drive some buying decisions. Thanks for the great content as always.