Class D Amp Comparison (Fosi Audio V3 vs. RSL iA255.1 vs. SMSL A50)

[@zounds13]

Nice review, thanks. I have two corrections about the RSL, though. 1. That's not a crossover, it's a selectable high-pass filter for the speakers. There is no low-pass filter, so the entire frequency range, not just the bass, is sent to the pre-out jack. 2. The pre-out IS variable. I've got my sub connected to it and its volume changes along with the speakers. For me, the RSL a perfect little desktop amp. I've got it connected to a FiiO K5 Pro ESS, an old B&W subwoofer, and a pair of RSL CG3M speakers. This is where the high-pass filter really shines, by the way. More of these little Class D amps should have them.

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Yes, high pass is the correct term. Thanks for the info. Low pass can be set on most subs. I agree, more of these little amps needs this feature. I do have an Arylic B50 that has crossover controls, but I don't think it sounds as good as the RSL.

[@marcmccord5085]

I love everything RSL. I had to have this little amp, and I do not regret it. I drive a pair of Klipsch RP8000F II with no trouble. I will soon be using it with the amazing CG23M and Speedwoofer 10E for a bedroom system. It is shocking how good this tiny amp is. I stream Tidal with it and am more than pleased. Class D is here to stay.

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

I have yet to test RSL speakers or subs. I've heard great things about them tho. That sounds like a formidable system!

[@zounds13]

I've got a 10S MkII in my main system (with RSL CG5s, BTW) and it's fantastic. I haven't heard the 10E, but I'm sure it sounds great too. I think RSL does high quality for low price better than just about anyone else.

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

@@zounds13 I would agree! After using their amp I would like to check out more of their gear.

[@tpr299]

I have the RSL amp. I like it a lot. I generally feed it music files from my computer through the USB Input. It’s plenty loud for the medium size room I have it in. I have it hooked up to Sony SS-CS5 three way speakers. I have had it hooked up to an 8” subwoofer, and that worked well. For $110 shipped I think it’s a great deal.

[@IvanITpro]

I got the new Aiyima 07 MAX (another Fossi V3 variation/clone) for $72 on sale. It comes with a 36V 6A PSU in the box from Amazon. Tried the Fossi/Aiyima 48V GaN PSU (same model for both brands) and returned it the same day, it robbed the amp of bass it was producing so well with the included 36V PSU. Maybe the non GaN PSU is better, but not sure if I'll try it. Because after I ordered and inserted 2 dual channel SS3602 Sparkos opamps (replacing the stock NE5532s), I experienced a night and day difference in sound becoming so beautiful I have very little words to describe it: way bigger sound stage, very pronounced bass, nice timbre/mid range and highs, while separating instruments extremely well. Sounds like my speakers quadrupled in size. It's not a cheap upgrade, but you'll get a $500-$1000 amplifier sound with this setup. Can put Sparkos into Fossi V3 as well. Made my Schiit Mani 2 phono stage for my turntable sound amazing! Also, amazon has the SMSL AO100 for $71 right now, they say it's used, but you'll get a brand new one come from the manufacturer/distributer, that's what happened to me on it ;) And it sounds just like my SMSL AO200MKII, just a bit less powerful.

[@Douglas_Blake_579]

FWIW ... The SMSL A50 is a TPA3116 ... producing about 35 clean watts per channel on 8 ohms. The FOSI V3 runs 50w/ch on 8 ohms with the standard 32 volt supply or 110w/ch on 8 ohms with the 48 volt supply. You will never get 300watts per channel from the V3.

[@spoorthyv]

In a best case situation, you can get 190w/ch at 4ohm in a burst with the V3 on the 48v power supply. Still not close to 300w though.

[@Douglas_Blake_579]

@@spoorthyv This has been my beef with these Chi-Amps from the beginning. A lot of people -- including well known audiophiles -- simply do not have the wherewithal to spot false claims and discover the truth. It's rather frustrating because behind these grandiose claims lies a perfectly capable Class D chip that is widely used in sound reinforcement, studio monitors and home AV equipment. The numbers they quote are the Absolute Maximum ratings. Yes the TPA3255 chip will produce a burst of 300 watts on 4 ohms... at more than 10% distortion, well into clipping... once.

[@sepg5084]

​@@Douglas_Blake_579 those "well known audiophiles" are also well known shills 😉 got affiliate links? You know how it is

[@scottbennett3119]

Thanks for reviewing these! Regarding RSL, was the smearing at all volume levels or high listening levels only? Thanks

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Smearing did get worse at higher volumes.

[@scottbennett3119]

I listened to you video review again and I did pick up that you were very pleased with it and being impressed how far class D has come. I ordered it and should have Friday! Can't wait !

[@zounds13]

@@scottbennett3119 how do you like it by now?

[@richh650]

The V3 is an amp only, not an Amp + DAC with an USB input. An amp with a cheap DAC is wasted money, so glad it is just an amp.

[@jca4941]

Hi. Great review. One question, what headphone/DAC would you recommend to use together with the RSL IA255.1 amplifier? Thanks!

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

I does have a pretty good built-in USB-C DAC. I would not hesitate to use it. For an upgrade consider the Geshelli Labs JNOG 2 or JDS Element II.

[@zounds13]

I have the FiiO K5 Pro ESS, and it's quite good for $150. The new Schiit Magni with internal DAC would probably sound a lot better for $40 more, but its only digital input is USB C. I like having connectivity options.

[@nuugle42]

Hi. I love your video. Can you recommend a HDMI receiver for home theater with 5.1?

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

Elon Osborne did an overview of 5.1 receivers on his channel that is very helpful. Personally I like Denon/Marantz so I would look at either the AVR-S540 (which accessories4less has one sale for $180 right now!) or the Marantz NR1510.

[@ramondelgado6778]

Great review!!!! I have the V3 but have wondered about the RSL as is has the crossover, full sized variable sub out, and tone controls. It's more complete. Does the Emotiva A2M sound significantly better? Thank you!!!

[@TheFrugalAudiophile]

I actually have the Mini-X not the A2M, but they are similar. I really can't tell the difference between it and the RSL or Fosi. Fosi might even have a little more power the the Mini-X. Just to clarify. The RSL has a 3.55mm sub out for which you will need an adapter cable. If I recall, it is included in the box. I really is a great amp with a lot of awesome features. I think it's perfect for a desktop setup! I do like the V3, but its limited feature set can make it challenging to integrate in a 2.1 setup.

[@oahupc4688]

V3 snr is 110db not 88db. The sinad is 88db.