HiFi’s Best Kept SECRET! Musical Fidelity M3si/M8xi High End AMPLIFIER

✅ 🛒 M8xi: amzn.to/3aqqaKm, amzn.to/3GPu4s5
✅ 🛒 M3si: bit.ly/M3SiIA, bit.ly/3wAcZgx
✅ CLICK ❤️ THANKS above to highlight your questions & help support the channel!
✅👇 CLICK SHOW MORE👇 to see a full list of products shown
► SHOP MUSICAL FIDELITY M3si and M8xi INTEGRATED AMPLIFIERS
Musical Fidelity M3si: bit.ly/M3SiIA, bit.ly/3wAcZgx
Musical Fidelity M8xi: amzn.to/3aqqaKm, amzn.to/3GPu4s5
► TESTING THE MUSICAL FIDELITY INTEGRATED AMPS
SPEAKERS
Q Acoustics Concept 300 Bookshelf Speakers: bit.ly/3QBqOW2
Bowers & Wilkins 702 Sig: bit.ly/3N1BdHu
Klipsch Heresy IV: bit.ly/35GRnlQ
TURNTABLES
Andover SpinDeck: bit.ly/AvrDeck
Cambridge Audio Direct Drive Record Player: bit.ly/AlvaCA
U-Turn Orbit Special Turntable: bit.ly/UTOS0A
FURNITURE
Media Cabinet: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
HiFi Storage Rack: bit.ly/ssvlrack
ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
HDMI 2.0 to Analog Converter: bit.ly/HDMIsw
Arylic Media Streamer: bit.ly/s50proA
MUSIC
Chvrches, Love is Dead: bit.ly/CVLID
Dua Lipa, Future Nostalgia: bit.ly/FutDL
Michael Jackson, Dangerous: bit.ly/MJdanger
Savage Garden, The Singles: amzn.to/2PI4oEb
► SHOP COMPARABLE INTEGRATED AMPLIFIERS
Cambridge Audio CXA81: bit.ly/cxa81ca
Denon PMA-150H: bit.ly/PMA150H
Marantz PM7000N: bit.ly/pm7000n
Rotel 1592 MKII: bit.ly/3w3qYgE
► MORE FROM MUSICAL FIDELITY
INTEGRATED AMPLIFIERS
M6si (silver): bit.ly/slM6si
M6si (black): bit.ly/M6siBlk
M5si (silver): bit.ly/M5si
M5si (black): bit.ly/MFbM5si
M3si: bit.ly/M3siBlk
M2si: amzn.to/3mvwsJw
POWER AMPLIFIERS
M8-500S Power Amp: bit.ly/M8500Ss
M8-700M Power Amp: bit.ly/M8700Ms
OTHER
Musical Fidelity M8PRE Fully Balanced Preamplifier: bit.ly/M8PreB
Musical Fidelity V90 DAC: bit.ly/V90DAC
Musical Fidelity CD Player: bit.ly/MFCD3
► MUSICAL FIDELITY M8XI REVIEW / M3SI REVIEW
HiFi’s Best Kept SECRET! Musical Fidelity M3si/M8xi High End AMPLIFIER
Choosing the best amplifier doesn’t have to mean spending the most money. We found HiFi’s best kept secret, Musical Fidelity M3si/M8xi high end amplifier. If you’re looking for a high end audio bargain and the best amplifier for your sound system, the affordable amplifier options from Musical Fidelity should be on your list. Integrated amplifier vs receiver - let's find out.
Putting together a HIFI system doesn’t always mean buying the most expensive amplifier from high end audio brands. The M3si, an affordable amplifier from Musical Fidelity is a great option. The Musical Fidelity M8xi amplifier will be one of the best amplifier hifi audio system choices.
► ANDREW ROBINSON REVIEWS
Musical Fidelity M5si Review: • Choosing the RIGHT Amp...
Cambridge Audio CXA81 Review: • VINTAGE Sound, MODERN ...
Denon PMA-150H REview: • Denon PMA-150H Digital...
► SHOP MY REFERENCE AUDIO AND HOME THEATER SYSTEM
LOUDSPEAKERS
Klipsch Heresy IV Speakers: bit.ly/heresyiv
Jamo C97ii Tower Speakers (best budget tower speaker): bit.ly/C97II
SPEAKER STANDS
Kanto Speaker Stands (budget): bit.ly/Kanto26
SolidSteel Speaker Stands (best): bit.ly/SolidAA
TURNTABLE
Cambridge Audio Direct Drive Turntable (best): bit.ly/AlvaCA
Fluance RT85 Turntable (better): bit.ly/RT85player
U-Turn Orbit Plus Record Player (value): bit.ly/uturnspec
RECORD PLAYER CARTRIDGE
Ortofon 2M Black: bit.ly/3yKz9i1
HEADPHONES
Sony WH-1000XM4: bit.ly/WH1000xm4
TOP SMART TVs
LG 8K TV: bit.ly/LG8K99TV
Hisense H9G: bit.ly/H9GTV
TCL 6 Series: amzn.to/35Vn9NO
BLUETOOTH / DESKTOP SPEAKERS
Naim Mu-so V2: amzn.to/33ASZxI
Klipsch The Fives: bit.ly/fivesUS
Kanto YU: bit.ly/YUdesk
► SHOP OUR LIVING ROOM
ARTICLE LEATHER CHAIR: bit.ly/NirvanaChr
ARTICLE SOFA: bit.ly/2HI6cMH
ART: bit.ly/howfaryt
TV / MEDIA CABINET: bit.ly/BDIMEDIA
EVERYTHING ELSE: bit.ly/ARdecor
► STAY CONNECTED
SUBSCRIBE & RING THE 🔔 bit.ly/RobinsonYT
JOIN THE CREW: bit.ly/ARobMbr
INSTAGRAM: bit.ly/AndRobIG
BUSINESS INQUIRIES: bit.ly/andrewbiz
FTC: This video is not sponsored. Some links above are affiliate, meaning we make a small percentage if you buy through the link but it won't change the price for you! Thank you for helping to support the channel.
#audio #amplifier #musicalfidelity

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

★ *QOTD: What would it take in a hifi component to get you to spend more?* ★ *REVIEWING **bit.ly/M3SiIA** and M8xi - **bit.ly/verM8xi** ★ *If it’s in the video, it’s IN THE DESCRIPTION above* ★ *COMMENT RULES:* - No outside URLs or KZbin links. - Keep it civil. Please be respectful to one another. Harassment and threats will not be tolerated.

[@erickallage]

for the QOTD, i believe for me, i go entry level to experiment and go end game so i dont need to ever upgrade. most of the people i personally know are the same, as much as collecting might be for some its not for me. also it seems that selling used hardware doesnt net a return high enough to equipment hop compared to saving up for the endgame gear.

[@edholmwood]

Having owed Krell, Threshold, Apogee and other "high end" gear in the past and having settled on a system that makes me happy and sounds good to me, probably nothing. Maybe if there was a significant change in a digital format that forced me to upgrade my DAC, then maybe. I am in my 60's and my hearing sucks so, I just want to be able to enjoy the music and not think about the gear. I am after all a "Recovering Audiophile."

[@chrissimmonds4383]

In these pandemic days and being of a certain vulnerable age, I decided to invest in my listening pleasure. I bought the M5si amp replacing a much older amp. I then couldn't really stop as the introduction of the M5si was such a (nice) shock, that I thought, what's stopping me going higher? Changed my speakers to the PMC Twenty5.23 which were reduced from £3400 to £2299 as they had brought out a new 'i' version of that speaker. I've now invested in the Chord Qutest dac with M-Scaler, and my goodness, what an amazing source!. So you see Andrew, all it takes to make us spend money on HiFi is a Pandemic which makes us stay at home! I'm enjoying being locked up now. So glad you are reviewing the Musical Fidelity amps as not many other respected reviewers do. They are definitely gems of amplifiers in their performance and build quality, if not their features (and their remote!) They deserve a lot more attention, thank you.

[@wizardmix]

What would make me spend more? Being able to hear more and that's a dangerous sign because I really nerdout there. When I get my hands on a separated track recording, it's like being in an amusement park. For me, I'm almost a bigger fan of dissecting the recording process than I am of the artists -- though with good artists, those processes overlap. I love that increase of space between sounds to where they literally lift into their own 3 Dimensional space. There is so much information there and it really allows you to respect a recording as a masterpiece -- if it is one, because it also allows you to start to discover recordings you thought were great only to realize through better fidelity, were over-compressed and badly mixed/mastered. I'm constantly amazed at how through bad fidelity, the brain bridged a gap or made a connection that was not actually there and then when you go from having that blurry vision to putting the corrective lenses on, how these little elements all of a sudden come to life and you can hear the dynamics, you can here the subtle textures, notes, buried spoken words, what outboards may have been used, hard panned stereo guitar tracks, etc. etc.

[@charlespurviskellyjr.7210]

QOTD..... What would it take for me to want to spend more in an super high-end audio component as opposed to a more affordable everyday “run of the mill” high-end audio component (or system for that matter)? I’m going to want to the “nth degree” of performance and sonic purity. I don’t know in words what that entails exactly. But what I hear in an expensive component or in a collection of expensive components is demonstratively more what I normally hear in a lesser equivalent and less expensive components. The performance will be the same overall, but I will know right away what is there now was not there before. It has to be at reference scale level or pretty damn close to what it would sound like if I were to see this artist in person at a concert. Ambiance, liveliness, amount of scale and height of scale. That to me, demonstratively determines whether or not a very expensive component is worth the added expense, and up to the point as to whether or not I would be willing to pay accordingly for that said component. It has to get closer and closer to 95% to 100% scale before I feel a component (or system) is worthy of such and expenditure. It’s been proven time and time again, that I can get 65% to 75%, or even 80% of the level and scale of a performance with a very good system that comprises of NAD, Pro-Ject, and maybe Marantz components and ELAC speakers, and I’ll be highly impressed and satisfied for a long time or eternity. But now, if I get an expensive super high-end system that is comprised of exotic speakers like higher-end Martin Logan or Wilson Audio speakers, Krell, Mark Levinson, or PASS electronics and VPI or ClearAudio turntables with insanely expensive and delicate phono cartridges, and there are higher scales of differences right off the bat, I’ll know that THAT component is indeed worthy of such an outrageous expenditure. Otherwise, I’ll be just be content with the 75% I’ll be getting from a NAD or even a Marantz system. I’ll be close to being almost 80% there, but at a fraction of the money. Now, I will honestly say that even stepping up a Musical Fidelity 3i would be a very nice step up from NAD C-316 for not a lot more money, and that will get me a lot closer to that gigantic Musical Fidelity 8i more so than a NAD C-316 will. And NAD’s are not bad amplifiers at all. NAD will remain my go to brand if I want something real and musical sounding, can drive real world speakers for not a lot of money. -Charles-

[@tymonlaw3314]

After watching this review multiple times I just had to hear it for myself so I got an M8xi. I was nervous that it wouldn’t live up to my idea of the pinnacle of HiFi at the cost. It truly cannot be put any more straight forward than what Andrew said. For residential 2 channel listening, This is the Apex of reasonably priced Hi Fi. The M8xi is the best thing I’ve heard to date under $10K

[@jas5815]

I've had mine a couple of years. its in a terrible room. open basement 2000ft. I was wondering if it's just me. Keep turning it up but it doesn't seem loud. Then try to talk to someone and nobody has a clue. This thing is amazing. I think it has more umph than my Mcintosh MC452 which I preamp with the M8xi

[@audiorick841]

So few reviews out there on the Musical Fidelity products. Thank you.

[@SilverAudiophile]

Agreed. MF is under rated and under reviewed especially on KZbin. However, for the next level up in the MF line, wish the MF M8s 700i monos and M8s Pre gets a review.

[@MrGfunk215]

After much research I bought a musical fidelity, and mehhhhhh. Decent but def not high end or hifi

[@xsamitt]

@@MrGfunk215 INTERESTING....What did you buy?

[@b97209]

This is the Two-Channel-Andrew that I have found so valuable in the past. Thank you!

[@positivelife3034]

I used to own Musical fidelity gear 20 years ago. I loved my x-series system, hooked up to some B&W cm2's it sounded stunning to me. These days I'm using a musical fidelity Merlin amp with some B&W 606s2 as a bedroom system. I'm really happy with it and the little amp makes the speakers sing no probs. When my kids grow up and stop drawing on furniture I'll move the system into the lounge and upgrade the amplifier, for now I'm content.

[@dcaudio1]

I agree 100%. I bought this amp 2 years ago based on my needs and it performs flawlessly. Its quiet, crystal clear, fun, powerful and the depth of sound is undeniable. I love this amp. My speaker source are the Klipsch Heresy 3....soon to be the Heresy 4 model....only because I don't have the proper space for the Cornwall......

[@johnallison4688]

Brilliant, a clear and accessible review , no hat on back to front or jive talk but good reasons to support a good product, I love good music and an intelligent appraisal . Love your site and your approach.

[@joeyfesta2042]

Andrew,U R da man !!!! I learned at least a half a dozen new things about Audio that I’ve never known before. Keep up the great work❤

[@ape3774]

I have a Musical Fidelity B1 integrated amplifier that I got about 1993 and it still sounds as good today as it did then, I also use a pair of Ditton 15 passive radiatord .. Stunning sound still

[@jeffbraecklein7544]

Great review, Andrew. I purchased the M6si 3 years ago. I had Bryston separates previously. Best audio purchase I've ever made. Absolutely no cons whatsoever. It has 220 watts per channel, 2 separate mono power supplies. Great review from upscale audio. All my best to you and Chrissy. Jeff.

[@TheTuckmon]

You make me want to buy everything you review.

[@lukavajagic3914]

I experienced what you described as not going louder, but fuller and more layered and detailed in M8 case with my XTZ A100D3. Amazing how people still don't get it 😬 If i want it too loud i would go to nightclub, but for hi-fi i choose stated above. Thank you for confirming my toughts and feelings.

[@timothygiordano3628]

Andrew, Thanks for the review. I just purchased the M6si to pair with my Rega Planar 6, Sutherland vibe phono stage, and Focal 1038Be speakers. I wasn't going to get an integrated amp, but every audio dealer I spoke to (4 of them) recommended the M6si to be paired with the speakers and components given my budget. It didn't break the bank and works great for what I needed and wanted. Thanks again for all of your reviews.

[@IGB231085]

Good choice have mine paired with Kanta 2

[@gr0nky]

Finally Musical Fidelity gets the praise it deserves. You’re on point, the quality/price ratio is great. What I like the most is the lack of coloring allowing a clear signal

[@sean_heisler]

Yes!!!!!! Yes yes yes. Nice review, Andrew, thanks! I have been waiting for someone to review an M series integrated for so long! I own the M2si ($1,000) which is the M3si minus the phono preamp and USB DAC, both of which I do not need, and have been stunned by it's performance. I've shouted it from the rooftops here and in forums but nobody seems interested in MF these days. Let it be known the M Series is killer! You nailed it with the M3si. Like the M3si, the M2si has amazing tone, sweet but extended highs, nuanced and textured bass, amazing soundstage clarity and imaging (I'm getting great width and depth in my treated room) and sounds crazy powerful. It's a steal!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

APPRECIATE YOU SHARING! We're BIG fans of Musical Fidelity ourselves now! We'll join you in shouting from the rooftops about these beauties!

[@deni196496]

Thank you for that review! Last month I was looking for a new amp, and tried to decide between a Musical Fidelity M3si (which was not available at my hifi store), an Advance Acoustic X-i105, a Denon PM7000N (that sounded georgeous, but was too expensive) and a Yamaha RN-602. The Advance Acoustic had the worst bass and treble settings I‘ve ever encountered. The low bass just disappeared with that amp, regardless of the settings. The Musical Fidelity was not available, so I bought the Yamaha. Now I‘m regretting that I didn‘t listen to the Musical Fidelity first. Anyways, enjoyed the review!

[@danab7472]

The M3si sounds remarkably like some of the best Sansui mid power integrated amplifiers from back in the day. Really nice.

[@markaochoa2017]

Love what Kristi has done with the space. Hope all is well in your part of Texas! Stay safe, and thanks for the ever cool content y’all put out.

[@joacwoot]

Listening to this video through my Musical Fidelity MX-DAC. Love it.

[@agentm83]

Some amazing praise for Musical Fidelity, they will definitely stay on my short list for amps.

[@chrissimmonds4383]

I have the M5si and it is fantastic. Superb engineering and sound, drive my PMC twenty5.23 beautifully.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

So glad to hear that! We were curious about the M5 ourselves. Thanks for watching!

[@davidcorbett62]

Am a great fan of musical fidelity. I have owned the A series amp and pre amp plus a recent addition of a MF 6 cd player. Love their reliability their styling and how they produce the sounds I love

[@DBravo29er]

Great video, with a fantastically accessible portrayal of the sonic character. Great job Andrew. Truly useable info on a great product! 👍😎

[@avro66]

Having used MF since the 80s the A1 class A amp and other amp and cd players by MF. I've always been impressed with the value for money and performance of said items.

[@paragonfalcon8643]

Based on "your" and others reviews, I've purchased the m8xi today, hoping it will drive my new Maggie 3.7i's to perfection or as near for my ears, saving me thousands over McIntosh or ML equipment. Thanks, to you and your wife for having a nonbiased channel here keep up the great work.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I bet that will be a great match. Circle back and let us know!

[@aceofspades6667]

I have the 1.7i's so going down a similar path as you.. Looking at hegel h190/390, anthem STR integrated, Luxman 509, Naim, routes.. Also considering going the separates route of tube pre + benchmark abh2 .

[@DJoscilate1]

I guess I would have to madly in love with the sound it reproduces for me to spend enormous amount of money. However the reality there are too many variables to consider. Good review, you definitely brought reality to the table. I appreciate that.

[@barryniconienko9287]

I wish you did more on the m8xi, I’ve look for an individual review, but couldn’t find one. I was looking for possibly purchasing the Mac integrated amp. When I saw your review of it and at the end you were comparing it to the M8XI, and you loved so much that ended up searching for it. I hope you’ll review it by itself soon! Thanks Andrew

[@tdw57]

When you get the M8xi plugged in, you forget all about the remote. It's not bad, anyway, lightweight, and won't cost a fortune if it needs replacing. M8xi presents stunning clarity, at any volume, across the spectrum. Notable is bass, and the DAC is no limitation. I'd recommend the What HiFi review for measurements...I got the beast at a discount but it's worth it even at list. My Pass X250.5 was no match for speed, bass, or clarity esp. at high volume. You are surely right, it just gets clearer...measurements bear it out. I'm listening thru Focal Aria 936 K2s, and system really sounded better after a couple weeks of overnight pink noise....

[@CaptainJamesTKirk-en4kt]

I have had both, currently have the M8xi... Great powerful unit, it will run anything with ease... Grit, power, great bass, excellent control. One Int. Amp I would choose over the MF M3Si would be, David Belles Aria Int. or his Aria Reference Int. Both excellent and I would rate the Aria above the M3si in sonic performance.

[@alex-cd9jc]

Hi James, I'm thinking of purchasing the m5si. But I'm not sure as I can't find anywhere if it has a direct mode option to hook up an external dac in case I want to upgrade in the future, as the internal dac is quite old already. No digital inputs, same as the m3si. Is there a way of bypassing the internal dac. Thanks!!

[@CaptainJamesTKirk-en4kt]

@@alex-cd9jc I use a Ladder Array Dac by Aqua, even though many Int. Amps are including DACs these days you can still bypass them by using an external Dac to Source, then Dac to Analog inputs on the M8xi. The M8xi also has 2 Coax and 2 Optical, 1 USB. It also has 1 Opt output, and 1Coax output. Typically the way to bypass a internal Dac is run the source to the External Dac, then the Analog outs RCA/Balanced out to the back of the Int. Amplifier.

[@SzymonMelewski]

It would be great if you Andrew check out Yamaha as2200 or even 3200. These are both beautiful and do live up to theirs aesthetics. By the way another great video!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We'd love to review them. Let them know you'd like to see their products on the channel and maybe it will give them the nudge they need to send us review units.

[@courtneyswaby3178]

1992 after auditioning several integrated amplifiers I was introduced to the MF Electra 100 this amp was the business with my Linn Keilidth awesome combination. Then that day when I carelessly fried the amp messing around with bi wireing. Three years later I discovered that the technician behind its creation had his own hifi repair business within 5 miles of where I lived. So this guy offered an upgrade service which I opted for and seriously the best system I've heard. Balance at any level clean dynamic power that have taken my listening experience to what my imagination always attain to as you described I would highly recommend their products.

[@hamidrezahabibi8111]

I own a SUGDEN A21SE Signature Pure Class A. It’s a marvelous integrated amplifier. I’m an audiophile and high end audio businessman with more than thirty years of experience from Tehran Iran. I’ve tested many audio gears ⚙️ but from the early years I had a taste for integrated amplifiers. I like Accuphase E800, Trilogy 925, ModWright KWH225i which it’s first 25 watts is pure Class A and of course Pass Labs INT25 pure Class A and I truly admire the Canadian heaven 11 audio.

[@MatthiasSchaff]

Thanks for the review! I currently have the M3si and the CXA81 on my system to test both. The clarity and transparency of the M3si is absolute stunning. Ways better that the CXA81. They both resolve the same amount of detail, but the CXA81 is always more on a warm, more pleasant side. In fact, the M3si can develop a cutting, almost harsh sound, especially when the internal DAC is used. The right speaker is here the key.

[@ramin3080]

I also tested the sound of both and generally liked the Cambridge sound more. For the warmth and relaxing of the CX81, I now plan to replace my AXR100 with the CX81.

[@darionehutni2008]

i bought M3si because this review and i'm happy with it!

[@stephenclifton7198]

I have the "Musical Fidelity KW500 semi intergrated Valve hybrid" @ 500 wpc, and matching "Musical Fidelity KW Phono", phono stage. Had them since 2006, Love them and as the review here Loads of headroom and Dynamics due to high power and 3 massive transformers in seperate matching case, one for the valve Pre amp and one for each Monobloc Power amps.

[@RasheedKhan-he6xx]

Have you ever played with with Hegel? Would love to know how the Musical Fidelity differs.

[@TheHammerofDissidence]

Genuinely surprised the m8xi is below $8k. I know that's still expensive but for what you get it doesn't seem that outrageous. I'm considering the m3si as an upgrade from my current IOTAVX stack. Also looking at the Rogue Audio Sphinx v3 and Audiolab 8300. What a crazy time to be into audio. So many great choices. So many bad remotes.

[@hamidrezahabibi8111]

Go for TRILOGY AMP. Hypnotic amp timeless amp beautiful sound gorgeous remote and design.👌👍🌕

[@spaige660]

These amps are GORGEOUS. Awesome review, you guys.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks so much! Appreciate you watching!

[@tomcarberry8100]

The remote does look the same as the one that came with my Musical Fidelity A5. It may be cheap but it continues to work after at least 15 years.

[@OMGWTFLOLSMH]

No doubt but if the amp looks like a stylish high-end pieces of art/tech, so should the remote. As it stands, it looks like a cheap piece of crap from the 80s.

[@SomaliCoastguard]

Picked up an M6Si BNIB for £1100 a couple of years ago and have to say it's been an absolute joy; an amp which, especially for that money, I can't imagine ever trading in. What Andrew says about the character of the M3Si's sound applies equally to the M6Si which partners very well with my Monitor Audio speakers, toning down their otherwise too bright top end. As to the remote? Yep, just as bad on the MS6i.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

I bet the M6 just sings! I also bet it's largely the same remote as the M3 as the M3 remote is barely different than the M8! Thank you for watching!

[@Phoenix_1991]

I found it the other way around when I hooked up my Musical Fidelity M3i with my Monitor Audio Gold 100 speakers. They sounded too forward/sharp/bright to my ears which is why I sold them. I found the Arcam A28/A38 to be a much better fit, personally. I do have to add that I listened to them in a relative small bedroom so that may have causes more reflections than you would have otherwise not heard in a living room.

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

Great review Andrew. Glad to see you cover Musical Fidelity. Too little about them in the community. Love their bet on simplicity. Can't believe that piece of s#@t of remote though! I have their universal music controller M1Clic and it's got pretty much the same remote! Nice piece of gear though!

[@TwangThang57]

I own and thoroughly enjoy the M2si, an M3si w/out the DAC and phonostage. Big fan of MF products as well!

[@NeerajGuptaIthaca]

Even more important than your content is your presentation. It is an absolute pleasure to listen to you.

[@gregclarke6835]

Great review Andrew-nice to see MF get some love. For sound, aesthetics, and build quality, it's hard to beat for the money. Have an older MF X-Ray integrated amp and matching CD player in my studio, and a M2si in my home (already have an outboard DAC and don't do vinyl, so I didn't need the those features in the M3si).

[@kimsonntag2244]

I have Musical Fidelity's integrated tube hybrid, Tri-vista 300, a fantastic amplifier, which despite being from 2003 sounds better than much else I have tried. Musical Fidelity's current top model is the Nu-vista 800.

[@leemccurtayne9489]

Kim Sonntag well that’s understandable, once you have a great tube design everything is more open and airy . It’s indeed hard to go back, to conventional solid state.

[@kimsonntag2244]

@@leemccurtayne9489 Exactly what I'm afraid of. Had intended to switch to a Naim Uniti Nova for practical reasons. But I'm now starting to think about keeping it instead.

[@leemccurtayne9489]

Kim Sonntag something that no one brings up is the phenomenon of fatigue, that happens when you listen to a few albums but you tire of it. That is because the music is slightly dry or harsh, and your sub conscience doesn’t let you listen to long. This never happens with a good valve amp, I have 3 valve pre amps and will never go back.

[@michaelnorris6867]

Great review! Honestly, this review pushed me towards buying a Music Fidelity amp over other brands. Thanks!

[@kirkcalma4365]

Andrew has the best video production in the hifi category. Polished and professional.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much, Kirk Calma! We appreciate you watching.

[@1wired4sound]

I have a pair of MF M8-700 monoblocks. Anyone who thinks that all amps sound the same is off their rocker. The control they have over my speakers, especially in the lf range, is phenomenal

[@akorus_master]

I have had the old m3i for 5 years now, bought it used. Really pairs well with speakers that have a bit to much energy on the high frequency. I almost sold my old first gen focal electra because they were fatiguing, especially paired with a Denon 1500R of the same vintage. But pairing with M3i really tamed the Focal while keeping their character. Didn't felt the need to upgrade since despite having much more means to do so.

[@rodpinfold8824]

Wonderful explanation, I have the M3i with Monitor Audio Silver 8's and I totally agree with your assessment at this price. I was looking for 4 years and would go Musical Fidelity again if upgrading to something larger.

[@stevekelly1297]

If you don't mind, the speaker binding post on the m3si.. Do they accept spade connectors?, thank you

[@planchernewfinish]

Your review of the mx8 is spot on! Had it for a few days , amazing ! The dac is ok but not up to par with the rest. Listened to it with my martin logans request and my tyler PD-30 and had very good control in every situation, the music just presented it self, for a long time i enjoyed music more than my sound system :)

[@NJLion30]

I'm so glad I found this channel.

[@craigcoughlin1834]

I still have my A300 integrated and A3 CD player. Great pieces.

[@emokidsparade8126]

thanks for putting the musical fidelity m3si on my radar. i like the look and your review on its performance. i don’t use a remote, so a bad remote doesn’t bother me. the only dealbreaker for me would be that i didn’t see a headphone jack in the front and i need that in my future integrated amp for late night turntable listening when people are sleeping. but i did put the product on my amazon wishlist to consider it down the line.

[@charlesquinn8746]

I love musical fidelity I have the xa 1 amp two pairs of xa 50 mono blocks to bi wire my monitor audio silver bx 5 speakers I also have the fidelity x dac and phono stage

[@mymixture965]

Thinking about getting the M8xi this review really helps, well done.

[@chrischarles6747]

This M8xi appears impressive. I feel your enthusiasm. That said, I have little experience with this line and hope to audition soon. I have taken note of this integrated wave and have listened to Krell and Hegel. The Hegel H590 peaked my interest as a replacement for my 1990's Bryston 4B driving Martin Logan gen 2. Have you had any thoughts comparing M8xi and Hegel H590?? Thank you for providing a laid back, straightforward approach to reviewing! Keep it up... Best regards, Chris

[@cheungshuiyeung5081]

I have a pair of Musical Fidelity pre and power amp combo. The preamp 2 ( upgrade from their debut model The preamp) and a Studio T power amp (again upgraded model from their Dr. Thomas power amp) bought them in 1986 and I am still using them for I can't find anything I like to replace them with (unless you are talking mega bucks). But back in those days not even Naim nor QUAD can beat it. Consider Musical Fidelity was a young company back then, they are just learning to walk, I consider they've done well to meet the oppositions head on and work their way up till today. And I am glad they still live up to their name and their customers satisfaction.

[@WilG082]

Your videos are so well produced. Do you shoot and edit them yourself

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

We do everything you see ourselves, completely in house. We're a husband and wife team.

[@sadsazzad12]

I LOVE MUSICAL FIDELITY GEAR😍 THEY ARE MUSICAL, WARM, TRANSPARENT & DYNAMIC😎😎

[@josephchamberlain3681]

Great review as always. Hoping you review some of the more affordable Chinese hifi products coming quickly into the market. Sound Artist has some really interesting products. Also Wharfdale's EVO line looks up your alley for review. Thanks again for the reviews. I look forward to watching them whenever they come out.

[@mechdude1]

Andrew, another outstanding insightful component review...well done 🙂👍...and ALWAYS the gentleman... Something pretty rare these days and much appreciated.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you kindly!!

[@JuanRomanMagdaraog]

It would be awesome if you could get a Rogue Audio Sphinx v3 for review. Would be very interested to hear you do a comparison to the M3si. Same price but it has a tube preamp section and class D power section.

[@IGB231085]

Awesome video love my m6si on my focal kanta 2

[@richardpeters2193]

Hello Andrew very nice review thank you. One point, there are two MF products between these much more closely priced to the 3si and they are of course the 5si (150w/ch) at $2000 and 6si (220w/ch fully balanced) at $3000. Everything I have seen says the 6si is a "final destination product" with exactly the same adjectives used to describe as you have used with the 8xi. This is relevant to me because I recently replaced my 37 year old Denon PMA750. With much consternation, two of my finalists were the Naim Nait XS3 and MF 6si. When looking at power it would seem a no brainier but Naim is not about power ratings. In the end I bought the Naim mostly because I was able to hear it whereas there were no MF dealers in my area. Also, I liked the dealer I was working with very much. Yes I would have liked to get the Super Nait but could not get it approved by the capital committee chair person in the house. Now I am looking at your B&W speakers...

[@terrym540]

Thanks for the review. I am in the UK, and, having had various amplifiers from them since the 1980s, for me, HiFi's best kept secret is Sugden Audio.

[@terrym540]

@@ianjohnhorwood2605 I have an AVI tuner which is still working extremely well. It is a pity that AVI ceased to manufacture electronics to concentrate on making loudspeakers.

[@ramonhooijer3737]

Great vibe and style. As a newbie you are helping me a lot. Thanks to your "advice" ive just ordered the Kanto YU6's!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Welcome aboard and we hope you enjoy the YUs!

[@DeeJayDeathStar]

I purchased a M6si only 10 days ago. 220w/channel is now making my old B&W CM10S2s really sing and has given them a new lease of life. I have to say that the detail I am now hearing that is extracted from both turntable (using external phonostage) and also from digital sources (attached through RCA input, not using the M6si's DAC) is very good indeed. As an integrated amp for pure music sources, the value is incredible. I paid under AUD 5,000 for the amp and I've been less impressed by amps costing 2 to 3 times that much.

[@Academicidiot]

When i picked up my NAD D 8020 speakers we tested them with the M6si in shop, and it was hilariously good. So much power made those tiny lion cubs roar.

[@joshuabrain9751]

I have the M6si too and I love it. Drives my Focal 1038be well.

[@jimminychristmas8100]

Primaluna, great, affordable tube gear and wonderful remotes! Great overview of the MF gear....as always!

[@derekmann857]

I really enjoy listening to Andrew! I think he’s one of the best at whats his doing!

[@Slammy555]

20 years ago I thought we wouldn't have receivers like we have now, instead modular audio processors that would allow customization to taste and source. It would avoid all the format issues if you could upgrade components like in a PC and good amplifiers seem to survive longer than audio processors.

[@geoffhemingway3926]

I find it interesting that you obviously love the MF amps and also rate the Cambridge Audio too - both British designed. I've always found British hi fi in general to sound markedly more musical (rather than 'impressive') than most other hardware at the price point. It also seems to hold its value on the used market better too. I've never owned any of MF's products but you have me thinking about possibly replacing my Naim's! I'll have to get an audition organised.. Thinking of how far you go with expenditure against performance, hi fi has always been about the law of diminishing returns and therefore perseived value for money. My take is always 'what can I reasonably afford to spend'. If money is no object, go for it. If money is tight, find a bargain and consider buying used - you can often get much better performance that way and you will normally find something that has been loved and cared for.

[@cameronkrause4712]

I see different systems as being different rather than seeing one as being better than the other one. I listen for " musicality ". Yes, so many reviewers hate that word. But I use that word because it best describes what I find one system has more of than a comparable system. I fully realize that you can not measure musicality, and that's exactly why the word makes so many people nervous. Musicality may not even be exactly the same thing to me as it is to the guy sitting beside me. But it's my interpretation that counts when it is me that spends the money and then has to live with the results.

[@lancekluemper3708]

Hey andrew i just scored a musical fidelity m8 encore 500. Your review gave me confort since ill be going from audio research seperates to the musical fidelity integrated. I found it for $2500. I can sell my denafrips dac and sony haps1 and almost pay for the musical fidelity. Thanks for the review as there isnt much reviews on the musical fidelity brand. I wanted the m8xi but theres no used market for those yet but i remember you saying the m3xi sounds very similar to the big brother. Not the best looking integrateds but as long as its a beast and sounds good. Ill be alright with a small downgrade. Thanks again Andrew

[@johnrdonovan]

Great review - many thanks. I purchased the MF3si a few months ago as I was rebuilding my Hifi system I originally set up as a late teen with most of my savings from my first few jobs. Unfortunately along the way many of the components were damaged or traded for something more "useable". I'm now back up and running with my old Monitor Audio Silver speakers, Rega R6 turntable, Decca Gold cartridge and now the MF3si. Absolutely loving the set up. I had previously owned NADs (pre/power and integrated), but the MF is just a lovely, powerful and graceful piece of hardware. The other piece of indispensable investment was a decent record cleaner as many of my LPs had not been played in almost 30 years, so needed a good scrub... Favourite records ATM - Talk Talk Spirit of Eden and Colour of Spring. Goosebumps every time and the MF3Si is a perfect match for the nuances of these two albums. Interestingly my only criticism was also with the remote - absolute garbage. The battery cover broke off completely the first time I tried to remove it to insert the batteries. But honestly, I don't need it as it has such a clean beautiful faceplate design the remote is an ugly travesty in comparison. Many thanks for the review - as a new subscriber I look forward to learning more from you on product reviews. -JD

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much and welcome! We appreciate you watching and sharing your own personal experience.

[@jedlomax100]

Bit alarmed that $1500 is considered good value for an amp. I am using my 1988 AKAI amp with a NAD 5210 turntable and new Dali speakers. I have a small room but it sounds great. It's what I will stick with until something explodes. Great channel though. I admire your decor.

[@doctordorkmeister5330]

I just picked up a non-working NAD C370 yesterday from craigslist - a couple capacitors on the protect board replaced and wow. It's up there with the Linn and Arcam i have here to compare, and surely it would rival that musical fidelity in the video. $75 bucks.

[@jedlomax100]

Vintage NAD stuff is pretty cool. My turntable is great.

[@jedlomax100]

Graham, King of the Britons! I’m delighted with my system. All future money will be spent on music.

[@jedlomax100]

Graham, King of the Britons! I have done and it was very good, but mine sounds good enough for me. After all it’s about the music, not the machine it’s playing on right?

[@jamesbrotherton5487]

Good review. You've got me interested in the M3si. Bonus points for pronouncing timbre correctly!

[@recboilable]

I’m so glad I came across your channel! Keep up the great work. Do you know how the M8xi would compare with hHegel’s H390 and H590? Thanks for your guidance

[@Cestmoi50]

Give up… seems like everyone hates to compare them… already looking for weeks for a decent review

[@egoneoteo]

I just got a m2si, can't wait for it to arrive

[@zyghom]

Hi Igor, how is your M2si and which speakers did you connect it to?

[@estenray6685]

@@zyghom Hello, I just purchased a M2si and paired it with the Elac Unifi 5.2’s. It worked out better than I could have imagined! The quality of the sound is simply sublime!

[@hifiandrew]

My primary amp is still a MF A300 I bought in 2000. I keep thinking I'll replace it or it will die someday. But alas no, it keeps playing forever and going forever. That giant gold knob is almost gaudy but damn the A300 is still great. The only thing more over the top than the volume knob is the ridiculous car battery binding posts. Considering I paid $1500 back then for 150w@8o/300w@4o ... Tom Gilett aka Sam Tellig called it one of the greatest hifi bargains of all time. After 20 years, hard to disagree.

[@franksandbeans7539]

I have a MF M2si paired with some KEF R500's. Very nice combination considering the price of the amp. I also like that it does not come with a DAC or phono stage. I will probably get an upgrade at some point, but this is keeping me smiling.....

[@guyb7005]

Going through your excellent reviews all week as I shop for and integrated amplifier, I'm at a loss in terms of sound quality in choosing between Rotel, Audiolab, and Musical Fidelity (lesser models: A11 tribute / 6000A / M2si all similar price in my area). Any thoughts of what differentiates these 3 in terms of sound character?

[@isaacsykes3]

Another 1!! Great review, although I do wish you would have dove a little deeper into the flagship model. It is possible that it needs it's own review. Regarding the question you presented, I think it depends on the speakers that you are pairing with amp. For, example I have a pair of GoldenEar Triton Reference, that have a max power handling of 600 watts per channel. The best DAC in my possession resides in my Oppo UHD 205 that pushes approximately 5v on the output stage. It's not the best system in the world, but its mine, and I'd like to hear it at it's full potential. I currently have the GE's and Oppo mated to an Emotiva XPR 5, and they sound amazing, but I really want to hear them on the XPR-1 monoblocks, with their 1kw of power, 500 watts per channel, stable down into 2ohm!!! Or a pair of Parasound JC1's. 👀👀👀Excuse me I'm salivating (also if have any connections I'd greatly appreciate it😉), but you get my point. Something like that would, rather, that makes me want to spend for that extra 25 to 30%. Also can you please do a video on output stage voltages and their importance/significance in amplifier pairing. Thank you!! You're one of the best doing this. Please keep up the great work!!✊🏿✊🏿✊🏿✊🏿

[@parvejislam10]

Hi Andrew, thank you for putting this review, finding Musical Fidelity review on KZbin is very rare, your review sums all the important aspects. I am considering buying M3si for my Dali Oberon 7. Let me know your though. Thanks

[@krancan25]

Would love to see you compare these to Hegel line up....

[@dangcjr]

Especially the H590 vs M8xi, The musical Fidelity looks to be the better design with true dual mono (2 large toroidal transformers vs 1 with the Hagel). Also separate transformer power supplies for both the DAC and Class A Pre-amp.

[@giovannimuro4856]

Hi Andrew, I own this amazing amplifier (M3si) and I can confirm that works very well even in combination with B&W 703-S2 speakers. Talking about the remote, the worst think in my opinion, it's not so much the look itself as it is the total absence of a power key. A remote control that allows you to control a device from distance is quite useless if you FIRST have to get up and turn on that device manually, don't you think? Do you think it would be possible to replace the remote control with another one that allows to turn the amplifier on and off?

[@chrisrowland699]

Agreed. I have the M5si and as much as I love it, the absence of a power button on the remote bugs.

[@bairdotv]

I bought the M3SI based off this review. It's driven by a Node2i and in a few days I'll have a Schiit Bifrost DAC. Speakers are old B&W CM8 floor standing. I love the M3SI, a huge improvement on my previous amp, very very happy so thank you! Curious what speakers you'd suggest as mine are ollllld - still good. The Concept 500s review well but pretty pricey in NZ $8000..

[@JoseMendoza-rt5ti]

Andrew I like your podcast, but I have a question for you, if you compare the quality of sound of this components , with some older amplifiers like a Sansui AUD 11 or a Kenwood Power Amplifier, which one offer more Fidelity and real quality of sound?

[@high_fidelity_stuff]

Another great video. I've been pondering whether or not to get an M3si for some time. IMO it looks beautiful. Also, connectivity-wise it's excellent as it considers that some people (myself included) still like to have a line out for headphone amps or recording and the inclusion of HT Bypass adds to its flexibility. From a sound perspective I found the stereo separation to be excellent and in particular I feel the detail in the mid frequencies really jumps out. In recent demos I've also heard the Cambridge Audio CXA81 which, whilst being an accomplished sounding amp is exciting or... exciting. I felt I couldn't relax into listening with the CXA81 for long periods and so I struck that from my list. I've also listened to the Audiolab 6000a at almost half the price and was amazed by the warm, punchy, yet detailed sound it produces from its 50WPC. Whilst the build and stereo separation aren't quite up to the standard of the M3si I do feel it's considerably good value for money. It also includes an integrated DAC but has no line or digital outputs on it. When did deciding on a new integrated amp become so difficult?

[@draztiqmeshaz6226]

I had one of their phono preamps years ago.. Loved it so much, though now I have no idea what happened to it...

[@RodneyAllanPoe]

I bought the M6sCD/DAC in April as my digital solution. It's excellent. Made in Taiwan, though. Virtually the same remote, too. 8-)

[@baronofgreymatter14]

Im torn between the Technics SU G700 and the Music Fidelity M6si..what to do

[@mychaelhouck2404]

Jeez...the power on that M8xi is massive! More than my A21+...like...way more.

[@contemporaryhomeaudio]

This review makes we want a M5si. Good to see MF includes a HT bypass.

[@markwestley6706]

As a retired Audio Engineer and lifelong music lover, I strongly suggest you take a listen to the ATC SIA2-150 Integrated amp and give us your thoughts.

[@gottrekk5798]

Personal preferences of course. When I had Musical Fidelity m5si in my system I had the feeling that something is wrong. One day I tried Rega, Naim, Exposure and Primare and I found the problem. PRaT - Pace, Rhythm and Timing.

[@lextr3110]

what is your recommendation in that range?

[@gottrekk5798]

@@lextr3110 I would recommend to audition at least few amplifiers, maybe 2 class D, 3 class AB and 1 tube with favourite music. Of course it's generalisation and there are many variables but at least it'll give you some idea.

[@Coneman3]

I have MF A308CRs (Pre and 2 powers). Awesome amps. Fine, sweet detail and big power when needed.

[@stevemorford2246]

I've used a MF A3 integrated amp w B&W N805s & Velodyne HGS 12 sub for 20 years now...love this combination. while I'm glad to see the M3SI retains many of the positive aspects of the A3, it's unfortunate that MF haven't stepped up to digital capability with this amp...

[@waterlover]

Love how you calmly explain things

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thank you so much! We appreciate you watching.

[@frederickhardman3389]

Good video, keep it up. Really nice to see someone comparing supper hi-end against middle level

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Hey, thanks!