HiFi System Upgrade - EMOTIVA BasX Amplifier Review. BasX A2 & A7 Amps

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

★ *REVIEWING: A2 **bit.ly/3uRu9o1**, A7 **bit.ly/2PRmIyk** SEE DESCRIPTION for more* ★ *QOTD: In 2021, are separates STILL IMPORTANT to You? Why or why not?* ★ *Love our conversation/outtakes? Be sure to watch to the end* ★ *COMMENT RULES: Please be respectful. No outside links, URLs, email addresses, etc. Violations are automatically deleted.*

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@Douglas Blake appreciate you answering the question of the day!

[@raulgarcia1718]

With the quality of integrated gear today, separates are kind of a niche thing now. However, separates are still valuable for people who have a little more experience and want to customize their experience or have a special circumstance that requires more control and selection of gear.

[@coloradoklutch8005]

I absolutely think separates are still important. I would like the ability to run a good quality pre-amp and swap out power amps as my needs change and as I upgrade to different speakers over the years. Also, if new technology becomes available for home theater, I would like to swap out my pre-amp and keep my power amps.

[@markwagner1997]

I've had separates and Magnepans for many years and felt separates were THE way to go. 2021, I'm downsizing in preparation for retirement and 1 hour ago I sold my Maggie 1.6's. After a lengthy search, I ended up with Kef Q350's to accompany the REL sub that I used with the Maggies. The mq and soundstage are tolerable for "little box speakers". Now, with the demand for high current, 4 ohm output gone, I'm seriously considering the Parasound NewClassic 200 Integrated. It's 110 watts @ 8 ohms should be ample for the Kef's and the well reviewed pascal "D" amp section, Burr Brown DAC and phonostage could improve my sound, eliminate a lot of interconnects and use a lot less electricity over my current separates. (Emotiva pt-100, Emotiva A-300, Pro-Ject Tube box s2) Yeah...I'm game for returning to integrated now that my Maggies are gone.

[@TheLkdude]

I would look at separates as the way to go with Home theater systems since the sound processing (Dolby/DTX/HiRes ..etc) can be separated from power amplification. Once you have your speaker setup finalized then you can commit to a suitable amplifier power to drive them and sound processing techniques could change faster than power amplification/speaker requirements. It is quintessential to buy an AVR system with pre-out (balanced or unbalanced ) capability to keep headroom for separates upgrades in the future. Also, we are not out of the woods when it comes to All channel driven and Two-channel ratings, it is wise to consider a brand/model that rates "All Channels driven rating" over the "Two-Channel driven" rating based brands or models when it comes to multi-channel amplifiers. The adoption of class-AB vs class-D design is welcome to this area, need to observe/study the class-D progression in days to come.

[@ingalook]

This is why Kristi having a take is invaluable, she asked the same question many of "regular" people are thinking, "why do we need this?" seems like a simple/obvious question but it allows Andrew to comprehensively make the case for the product - Great job guys!

[@scottyo64]

Thats a question my wife often asks. "Why do you need that?"

[@shanarusuran8715]

@@scottyo64 My girlfriends doubts are the only reason I can save some money

[@joeroulhac9086]

I totally disagree with you about the blue I absolutely love it, I personally think it has a touch of class.

[@SavageAirCinema]

Got the Emotiva Basx A3 a few weeks ago to power my front sound stage for my 7.2 system. The side surrounds now blend a little bit better with the fronts. The voices now sound more natural and less muddy. The rustling of leaves or the jingling of keys is more distinct. Overall I'm impressed with the dynamic sound that better matches my 92-inch screen 4K HDR viewing content.

[@TJ3ttts]

I bought the A5 based on this review but also because it's a local company for me since they are assembled and sold only 20 minutes from my house. I got the a5 for the 5 in my 5.1.4 system. The marantz 6014 was great alone but this basx really brought my Klipsch 620fs, 610fs, and 34c to life so much that I really don't need the 1 in my 5.1.4 system. Thanks Andrew and Kristi for informing me of a brand that is great and just happens to be right down the road.

[@snauspockets9924]

Got my A3 on Friday and rocked it all weekend on the LCR of my Denon 4700. So nice...need 2 x A4 to finish the 7.2.4 and I can turn off the denon amps and go into preamp mode. I think the a3 is the key because it provides the three channel amp to provide punch for the LCR in the home theater. I wish I could post pictures here because there's a spec sheet that comes in the box that shows the a2 and the a3 are exactly the same in terms of power when only two channels are driven. If that's true then you got two channel music punch just like the a2, and 3 channel punch for the home theater LCRat the same time. When I get tired of the blue LEDs I will turn them off but it's in a rack out of sight anyway so who cares. Happy with my purchase

[@nicholasjames3721]

I have used this amp for more than a year for two channel listening and actually purchased this amplifier based upon this review. When I first got the amp, I really didn’t like this amplifier and felt it was one of the most boring amplifiers I’ve ever heard. However, the more I played it and matched gear with amp, the more I’ve come to appreciate this amplifier and have become rather fond of it. I’ve had quite a few amplifiers come and go in the last year and I still haven’t gotten rid of this amplifier says a lot. It really does it’s function well which is to power speakers. It allows me to add color to the sound elsewhere whether using different speakers or preamplifiers. It really does well powering my harder to drive Ohm Speakers and my Dahlquist DQ-10’s. The DQ’s and the BasXA2 is a really good combo. Save some money and get this amplifier with a really good preamplifier.

[@thomasjacques5286]

"A straight wire with gain" is the goal. And the blue LEDs can be dimmed or turned off. For my buck, the Emotiva A2 and PT1 are serious bang for the buck powering my BOSE 901 speakers to room-filling and wall-shaking sound, and the top end and mids are so sweet and analytical. And they offer a military discount. I was OTD for $950

[@Mark5ive5]

Thats funny because I love the blue lights. I think this is one of the best looking amps.

[@MrAndy2281]

I agreed 100%. I would love that every amplifier or receiver come with some nice blue led like emotiva

[@vwr32jeep]

Yeah, what a strange thing to obsess about. Maybe it’s an age thing? I miss the VU meters and graphics equalizers. The blue lights look very subtle to me.

[@hemicuda9510]

Very true on how a multi channel receiver gets taxed while pushing all channels through all frequencies. I've found that using a nice powered subwoofer and crossing over at 80-100 hz with the receivers internal crossover, it takes away the strain of the receiver covering the entire spectrum. I've pushed my Onkyo pretty hard through all 7 channels and never once had it clip or damage my speakers, but I have a PSA S-3000i sub handling everything under 100 hz. So it definitely helps ease the burden of the receiver. However, I still recommend separates for sure.

[@nathaneldogo]

100hz for me is the perfect crossover whit bookshelf speakers 🔊

[@rickhunt3183]

You're right on the money. Having a separate power supply for each channel is best. It's tough for one power supply to deliver current to multichannel amps. Mono block amps are the way to go if you can afford the cost. The main drawback is often you require multiple 15 amp circuits to power the amps if you're going to drive them hard. Also it's generally a good idea to connect a ground wire connecting each amp to a common ground to eliminate the possibility of a ground loop. I can't stand to have a 60 cycle hum coming from equipment. You generally won't need to do that using balanced inputs, but sometimes with RCA connectors you have to. I'm running 2 dual bandpass subs with 12 inch subwoofers. An active crossover tuned to cut off at 120 Hz works good for my setup. I'm using a 12 channel Yamaha mixer to drive my amps. It's nice to see someone that's really interested in sound. I couldn't tell you how many speakers I've burned up either driving them with a little too much power or bass over the years. Have a great night.

[@craigforeman903]

I purchased an Emotiva A3 and installed it yesterday. It is an external amp to my Marantz SR7012. The improvement in sound is amazing and I am very happy with my purchase. Thanks for all the great reviews!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Great to hear!

[@hgwaterous]

I blew up a "4 ohm rated" AVR with my Magnepans. Added the A2 amp and got audio bliss. Bought an A4 to drive a new speaker project with tri-amping and dsp crossover.

[@Auxdour]

Andrew, just a heads up. The reason the Emotiva basX a2 isn't bridgable is quite simple: the basX A1! Same price mono-block.

[@jl6165]

I LIKE the blue lights. I like to be reminded that a device is working and doing it's job. It's so easy to turn them off I wonder why people even bring it up.

[@hondaphan4172]

I feel EXACTLY the same way. I actually like them and I've never turned them off during the two months I've owned the A3. If someone doesn't like them then all they have to do is turn them off with the switch on the back. I think it's a non-issue since Emo gives you an option.

[@edstark44]

I only noticed the other day while searching for “how much amp power do I need”, that you actually worked for Emotiva back in the day! Didn’t know that - pretty cool. Looking forward to these amps hitting the UK! 👍🏻

[@jasonmendonca6061]

I love the blue lights 💁

[@bigasagaai7331]

I have a Marantz NR1607 with left and right SVS Ultra bookshelfs, an SVS SB2000. Could not get the sound right, sounded bright and squirrelly, and music I stopped listening to ( I am an ex sound recording mixing guy and music sounded flat and thin). I thought it was the SVS speakers and was looking at upgrading to much more expensive towers. In the interim, because I was having difficulty listening to vocals, I decided to put in a SVS ultra centre, and as a stop gap to take power off the Marantz added an Emotiva basx a2. The difference it has made to music is amazing (centre off). The Emotiva has very large deep but tight bass and soundstage, the top end is present but has a darker colour that controls squirrely hard tweeters like the SVS has. The sound is detailed, thick creamy, expansive and has the voltage reserves to enable full dynamics with no clipping or saturation/flattening of the soundstage. Music it just sounds balanced and there is nothing that stands out as being out of balance, save for the high end having a dark ebony sheen which I actually like. My wife is a muso and she hated me playing music with the NR1607 and SVS ultras. Now using the NR1607 as pre outs and the Emotiva Left and right for music, my wife will actually enjoy music being plated and will walk past hear a note and go to her Yamaha C3 and tap out and sing a note that grabs her. I no longer and looking to upgrade the SVS Ultra bookshelfs, which have been transformed with the Emotiva and I think the SVS bookshelves really are a difficult speaker to drive properly and are probably 4-6 ohms with wierd phasing issues that needs big power to make them shine, which the Emotiva does. The BASX A2 is a fantastic amp that is a steal for the money. Well done Emotiva.

[@gregvp6385]

I have an A300 (2 channel predecessor to the a2), an XPA 2, A2, and an A3, all of these amps perform extremely well. A300 paired with a Denon 3500H, XPA 2 and A3 paired with an Onkyo RZ50 and, The A2 is paired with an Onkyo RZ830. Everyone of these amps improved the sound in each application. Better bass, more refined mids and highs. Sounds better at every volume levels. Very happy with all of these.

[@TheNLHAZE]

Same love the BasX3 and the whole BsX line because of the A/B sound don't care for the new H amplifier there pushing.

[@brahmeshtripathi4100]

I like it when you throw those hints like "not taxing your amplifiers" comparing your review with the current situations out there with the world economics😄

[@GorhamWorks]

I didnt believe in separates until I tried it and had a bigger room to fill with sound. Didn’t think it was going to be as big of difference as it was. Stupid happy with results. I picked an Outlaw 7000x a couple months ago for the living room... holy crap... does an amazing job. Just team lift the thing... cause the shipping box is full of gravity. The amp is clean power goodness, powerful, and now the receiver literally runs cool cause it’s just processing. My wife and I could instantly tell the difference. I think you brought up a great points... speaker efficiency and power supply... there are only so many angry pixies in an outlet... you swing to hard and breakers pop. I’d love to see you review some of the Outlaw products. You always have great insights into the stuff you review. Btw your production.... top notch.... I don’t think the average person knows the effort it takes to get the result you consistently put out! Great work! Thank you!

[@VNaik713]

Super glad you point blank said not to get the crown if you have klipsch speakers 🫶. Ive been tempted by them, so this advice definitely helped me dodge a bullet. Thanks! Just switched from the RX-V6A to the VSX-LX505 and was just looking to see what amps would be a good fit when I'm ready to add the additional channels out of the reciever that will require power. 😊

[@mikedelara8226]

I may have commented on this video before, I don't remember. But since having the BasX A2 and the BasX PT 1 for 1 year now, all I can say is I will never get rid of it. I use it exclusively for vinyl two channel and OCCASIONAL 2 channel CD. With these components you hear your speakers, not your system. And I love my Paradigm Studios and HSU Research speakers for what they SOUND like. In my mind I am an audiophile, my system may be an entry level audiophile system because of what I've SPENT. But what I have spent is an audiophile sound to me. Are there levels of an audiophile? Like in the 70s 80s and into the 90s, "Heavy Metal" changed. Born To Be Wild was the birth of "Heavy Metal". Black Sabbath was there already. That was heavy metal. Then Aerosmith came around. And then Scorpions and Judas Priest. Then Van Halen turned everything into a petri dish and gave birth to Mötley Crüe, Quiet Riot, Bon Jovi, Poison and Cinderella. All good, but not true "Heavy Metal". Or was it?..... Definitions change all the time. I may be a third-tier audiophile, but I made a great freaking system on a budget. Actually, I have 4 complete systems that deliver my "Nirvana".. thanks in large part to Andrew and Kristi. 5 out of my last 12 audio purchases were because of their recommendations and so far, zero have been a dud. I needed to get this off my chest, because average income people wanting audiophile results need to listen to Andrews recommendations, and LISTEN to what he is describing. Thank you Andrew & Kristi.

[@GORESLAM77]

I love the blue, sorry! Separates are an easy way to have flexibility and more dynamic sound for any home theater system. Plus, I love the look of stacked amps!

[@ferrisburgh802]

Ditto love the lights..

[@glengatt3941]

@@ferrisburgh802 I wonder where the problem is if you can turn the lights of,now she is contrition him and to be the gentleman his contrition himself he said he can hear the difference now his saying his not wow the things you say.i like your videos man but make up your mind

[@pvl256]

Me too

[@marksilgalis9400]

HOLY SMOKES! I just added the A2 into my 2.0 system driving Heco Aurora 700s via the Marantz NR1200. I don’t critically listen when I first get a new component. I put on my test tracks and read the news on my laptop. If something is markedly different it usually grabs my attention. I just had to put my laptop away because the absolute presence of the musicians in my room was UNCANNY. What an upgrade! The soundstage and just general control are incredible!

[@ramondelgado6778]

I had a very similar experience. I added an A2 to my Emotiva TA-100 (integrated amp) and the A2 really woke up my Wharfedale Diamond 11.2 bookshelves. It really updated my set up. Very happy with the A2 and it always runs very cool, considering the Wharfedales can dip down as low as 3.7 ohms. Excellent value.

[@Navarre-i1j]

I absolutely ADORE the blue lights! I don't care about the specs, MUST HAVE BLUE LIGHTS!

[@AlonsoVPR]

Finally got my BASX A2 last week. I was hoping it sounds at least the same as my vintage WO Phase Linear 400, and I just dropped my jaw!. I'm so happy for making this great buy!. Thanks for the reviews, Randy and Andrew Robinson!

[@TheNLHAZE]

I love my A/B Emotiva amplifier. Don't like the New H power that there now trying to push out..

[@marknpb]

Just received my A2 yesterday. The owners manual says the output is 175W/ch even though all current advertising still says 160...I'll have to call them Monday and ask what's up....if they upgraded it. Either way, this thing makes my towers sound WAY better than bi-amped by my AVR (Denon avrx3500h). Definitely going to add an A5 later for the center and surrounds. (I'm just doing a 7.2 system) Well worth the price! ( I'm running some lower end Polk RTiA9 towers, which are power hungry, so I may also add another A2 and use the bi-amp capability of the Denon AVR to pre-out so each tower gets two channels of A2 amplification) As for the sound itself...even bi-amped, my inefficient power hungry towers never had this much bass or clearer midrange. The speakers sound SO much better, the difference is amazing. I've always had separates in the car stereo, but until now never really popped for them at home. It was well worth it.

[@jasonwatkins4277]

Just ordered a BasX A7 with a pair of T2+ towers. Already have the C2+ center hooked up to a Marantz SR6014. The next step is getting room dialed in with some treatments and then upgrading the surrounds to Emotiva. Really good review, it helped me decide on the amp....thanks.

[@Novilicious]

Use bassx for home theater. The Parasound is killer for music. With Klipsch, go with Parasound due to P’s warmer sound (it’s kinda harsh with everything else like class d or bassx....you need that tube sound for horns which P’s have). I have the Parasound a23+ that I bought for $1400 and it’s only worth it for music. If your into theater, go with cheaper alternatives like this one-90% of the gains for Parasound for half the price. Hope this helps!

[@cgm246]

Using a 3800 denon…I am considering getting an A5 for the base speakers and letting the Atmos run off the Denon…(5.2.4) using mono price THX365 x5 . My better option space wise is to go up the line to a 6800 or A1H Denon. Thoughts? looking for dynamic presence increase not really db increase.

[@themaven4054]

Maybe it's me, but the only blue lights I see are the little blue dots in front. So whats the biggie about the blue?

[@hondaphan4172]

I've had the BasX A3 in my system for several months and I've never turned the blue LED's off because I don't think they're particularly bright so I simply don't notice them. Also, my wife has not once mentioned anything about them so that tells you something. If they bother you or your significant other then simply turn them off with the switch on the back...easy peasy.

[@donalddeorio2237]

I like the blue porthole of my Marantz preamp. Definitely a great value. I'm 62 and my hifi journey started at 17. The system I have now, most of it I've had for 18 years my Carver av705x gives me more than enough power to rock the house. the pre-amp processor was upgraded when my sons bought me a Marantz av7005 used for my 60th birthday. That replaced my Rotel which didn't have the HDMI and other connections I wanted. The sound was startlingly better and improved the overall performance of my system. Have no desire to change anything else.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

That's okay. The porthole design of the Marantz is pretty unique and definitely a visual way for Marantz to distinguish themselves from the rest. Thanks for watching!

[@richkunkiewicz1357]

I currently have a Marantz nr1200 hooked up to wharfedale Lintons and find myself pushing the Marantz on the high side most of the time. I think this a2 is worth considering.

[@richkunkiewicz1357]

Since this post I purchased the a2 and it cranks pretty good! I hear more highs and lows from the Lintons and definitely more headroom on top. For 440$ it's well worth it I think.

[@kevins.1752]

I purchased the Marantz NR1200 and have them paired with Paradigm Monitor 3 V.1 speakers in a 2.2 configuration. I also found the Marantz lacking in power and added an Emotiva A-300. This didn’t do much so I purchased a Crown XLS 1502 and what a difference. I am very happy with the Crown as it performs without straining the Marantz. I moved the A-300 to my home theatre room to power the left and right speakers.

[@reggieburris]

The lights are beautiful and match my Dual PB-4000s! I have the Emotiva BasX A-500 for one system and the BasX A5 for my other system, both 7.2.4 setups with my Denon x3700H’s. The Emotivas drive my LCR and surrounds and the receivers drive the back surrounds and heights.

[@pinstrypes]

I recently purchased this amp and agree with the comments on bass. There’s enough boost there that it is noticeable (in a good way) vs my Marantz integrated amp but still very clean.

[@nonametofame]

What a lovely Sunday treat for both beginning and recovering audiophiles: an excellent Emotiva review. For the QOTD, I love separates because of the versatility. Class D amps solves form factor issues, and who doesn't love swapping different gear to experiment with speaker+electronics synergy?

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for answering the question! If you're into gear and like swapping between products, separates IS the way to go. Thanks for watching!

[@Safetytrousers]

They didn't put an auto off on the others in the range so they didn't turn themselves on and off during movies. The 3 and up would all be used for AVs which are very likely to have a trigger output to go into the inputs those amps have.

[@jiggahits]

Thank you for adding comments about comparisons to other products, including the Outlaw Audio. Components in this price range are ample for 95% of users running home theater above a soundbar. The law of diminishing returns kicks past this price range.

[@jlutell]

Nice review--I've been using an Emotiva XPA and UPA with a Pioneer VSX-1121k for years and have loved the combo from day one. Yes separates are still the way to go for me.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Their XPA amplifiers are great! Thanks for watching!

[@stephenstevens6573]

I chose the crown in my situation. With my old Msgnapan MGlls, I really needed the extra power. I regret NOTHING! The crown has performed flawlessly! Thank you for your recommendation!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Crown and Magnepan is actually a really good combo. I used first gen Crown XLS amps on my Magnepan 3.6s years ago and they worked great! Thanks for tuning in!

[@mfkhometheater7742]

Now they come out with a new BasX after I just got the older A500 and four A700's a few months back! Oh well, the older version will work just fine for my application. I might order two of the A4's to power my aux subwoofers that will be IB ceiling mounted distributed around the theater. These will have independent DSP and amplifier channels for smoothing out the response throughout the room. The new A4's should be perfect for this!

[@tabithamaydavis5792]

Just unboxed my new Emotia A2 and TA-100 pre-amp (5/1). NEWS: I talked with Emotia and they said new pre-amps should be released in a couple of months (July? / August?). I went a head with the TA-100 on the idea that if the new pre-amp they release later this summer is "way-mo-better" I would sell my TA-100 and buy the new model. That said, GEEZE-LOUIEZE, what a great sound! The A2/PT-100 drives my Elac UB52's like a champ. The DAC is just ok, and BT is a joke, so I plan to augment with another DAC later this year. USB from my laptop to the TA-100 however is good, maybe even great.

[@Jonathans_tech_thoughts]

To be honest, I always skipped Kristi's part bacause for me only the technical specifications was relevant and please don't get me wrong at this point. But now I watched the whole Video including Kristi's part and realized how important her part is. Than everytime I bought something new I don't know how to describe my wife the improvements because she don't have a trained pair of ears. For her it was like hm loudspeakers are loudspeakers it's all the same and something. Pretty sure you know what I mean. But exactly at the moment Kristi bringt up the argument of "I don't heard a difference with and without the amp" you gonna bring up the perfekt argument why it is such a enrichment or improvement to have one. Now I'm pretty sure before I bought some new stuff I definitely watch Kristi's Part to explain it the same way you explain it to my wife.

[@mikespolar6756]

I enjoy your videos. Our kids are away at college and I’m reclaiming the basement with upgrades to HT. My biggest takeaway from your videos so far has been the space you watch and listen are almost as important as the equipment you choose. Went with separate amps with 11 channel receiver with preouts and it sounds awesome.

[@2247386]

“The blue looks dated”? But, it’s sitting between 2 JBLs that are styled like speakers from the 70’s

[@jurynalivaiko4718]

heh..he..that's true! I also notice that! besides u can switch those off. - "Can I please have a can of Coca-Cola, but could I have with 'Times New Roman' instead of those curvy ones?"

[@squiggy8110]

Recently upgraded my system with a new A2. My decision was partially based on this review. Coincidentally, my receiver was a RX-V6A. Didn’t have quite enough umph for my Thiel CS 2.3 speakers, which are a little power hungry. This amp definitely made a difference, especially at decent volumes.

[@JoelOman1980]

I love your review style btw Andrew. It's always so clean and on point. Regarding your question, I certainly like the seperate system setup. Sold everything had in my younger years some 10 years ago, buying an all-in-one system from Bose, but last year, turning 40, I decided to pick my hobby once again and went fot seperates and man does it sound different, more lively, more punchy. Thank you for always staying relevant and take care!

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

What did you end up with after switching from the Bose? Appreciate you watching!

[@JoelOman1980]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews Hehe, wrote on my other comment, but it's a Marantz NA6006 Network Streamer, Marantz PM6006 Integrated Amplifier, Triangle Borea BR03 Bookshelf Speakers, cables from Ecrosse and XTZ (since I'm Swedish, haha)

[@JoelOman1980]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews The NA6006 has variable RCA outputs, which enables me to use it as a pre-amp, hence the reason for the Emotiva A2...

[@epiclifesociety]

Sounds like it doesn't suck. I just pulled the trigger on my A2 to power my Klipsch RP-61 II's. Last minute now I'm debating canceling the order and grabbing the A3 instead to give me the versatility to add a center channel later. I think once I get it I will be blown away and extremely satisfied. Mostly will be cranking some music.

[@billshreeveable]

Just received my A2 & PT1 preamp yesterday and am experiencing day and night difference driving my Fluance Signature Series bookshelf speakers from using my old Onkyo 5.1 receiver. I also appreciate the old school analog sound tweaking the treble by just a little, would like to hear some Polk 703’s with this set up also. Much appreciate your review and it was one of the reasons I chose the Emotiva, thx.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Great to hear!

[@snauspockets9924]

Imho, the a2 is a two channel amplifier that will be bought and used in a wide variety of stereo applications. Many of which do not include trigger outs so the Auto source sensor makes sense... However, on the a3 and up you can assume they will be used in a multi-channel environment and connected to something with a trigger out. Daisy chain them and boom you're done. I never even thought about not having the auto sensor because I'm using a trigger. From a design standpoint you would not want to have that auto on source sensor because it's probably just another weak point in the system that is susceptible to failure and customer service calls. Great video and I especially like the last couple of minutes where you're basically giving husbands everywhere reasons(ammo) as to why you would want to afford one of these things even though she can't hear one bit of difference.

[@SeanVedell]

“They’re obnoxious” That’s the kind of review I love! Kristi nails what it’s like to have the gear being reviewed in your house. While I know a lot of enthusiasts will tolerate almost any aesthetic for the gear they want, having someone cover the impact said gear may have on a partner is a unique part of your reviews. Thanks for another wonderful Sunday morning. Oh ya, have you ever reviewed a Bryston amp? The 4B was a huge part of my mobile DJ years and I’d love to see what Bryston is doing these days.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Sean you are SO RIGHT! I love it too! As for Bryston. I loved their amps back in the day but have not heard anything from them in maybe 10+ years. Are they still in business? Appreciate you joining us as always!

[@KristiWright]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I'm the like the Girlfriend Reviews of audio. 😂

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@KristiWright Nice!

[@SeanVedell]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews They appear to be still going strong. Same lineup as always but now with silver faceplates and no obvious rack handles. Can’t imagine moving one without those rack handles! I don’t play in that patch anymore but for about ten years of doing large venue mobile DJ’ing I’d always rent Bryston 4B’s so I’d never have to worry about driving whatever speakers I’d get from the sound company for the next gig. Good old Canadian reliability, if that’s even a thing.

[@SeanVedell]

@@KristiWright Not an insignificant factor for most of us, actually. We may act all alpha male about our gear but I’m sure most of us have to consider if a spouse is going to tolerate it too. It’s why I don’t have tower speakers and probably never will. That’s just too much speaker for my wife. Happy spouse, happy house. Words to live by.

[@hifihometheater]

I appreciate the informative first half of your reviews but I come here for the last part where you and Kristi are just giving your own casual opinions. This review is a great example of that. Thank you

[@victorvalenzuela6949]

I Love the blue LED and the look of it. It’s simple and tough looking. It doesn’t get to much attention. 🔊🔊 You guys are a great team. Just subscribed looking forward to seeing more videos. Thank you 👍🏼✌🏼

[@jimbo3782]

Ok I just pulled the trigger on the 2 channel. The specs have me a bit worried around the THD but all the reviews I read said it was quiet and clean. I was contemplating the ROTEL RB-1552MKII but for 1/3 rd the price this is worth a shot.

[@Mike_v_E]

would the Emotiva BasX amps produce better sound than the upcoming high-end Onkyo RZ50 AVR?

[@Wolfpack-N]

Andrew my question is other than a warranty what’s the different between the A-7 and the A-700? I imagine you won’t here much of a difference between the 90wpc and 80wpc or 120wpc and 110wpc. I think it’s less than a half dB. They’re both A/B amps and look identical. Also, the A-700 delivers 210wpc into 2 channels @ 4ohms vs 175wpc of the A-7. I appreciate you doing these by the way delivery is chill and easy which is nice. Keep up the good work!

[@danielkent4217]

I love my A3 with my Klipsch forte IVs and RP-600 center. Clarity and punch all coming from a Denon AVR. I prefer it over the Parasound a23 I had before

[@clsanchez77]

Great review. Looking to upgrade my RX-V685 to a RX-A6A and my 5.1 to 7.2.4. The A6A only has 9 amp channels. The A8A has 11 amp channels, but is still limited to 300W total. I want to reserve more power for my LCR channels so I am looking at the Emotiva 3-channel amp. I was concerned about the Emotiva amp being an inferior amp to the Yamaha and reducing sound quality. Sounds like this will not be the case.

[@NeoDon1]

I have Marantz SR7015 withs Klipsch R-26FA 7.1 Home Theater Pack in 5.2.4 should I purchase an Emotiva bass X A3 or a basic A5 or A7 ? Thank you AR.

[@michaelbav7491]

Just purchased the A-300 minutes before these were released. Was on a chat and was recommended a refurbished one. Sure enough it was defective and had to send it back. Wish I was told about the new models. I currently have the A-500 but seems a little weak. My avr has more wattage so that’s why I wanted an additional amp for the front stage. Preferably the A-3 and sell the A-500

[@bang2loud1981]

I think they didn't include the auto sense is because they offer the trigger feature which I use on my 7.2.4 surround sound setup when I turn on my denon avr‑x3700h all amps turn on and offwhen powering down the avr running one A3 on my front stage, one A4 for my side and rear speakers and another A4 for my dolby atmos enabled speakers

[@ZERO-CAPACITANCE]

Excellent Andrew, cutaways and re-framing!! Perfect video quality and sound is very good. I love the room as well. Content has always been very professional and informative. I’m glad you listened to my feedback Sir.

[@jmydy]

I'm considering BasX A2 as power amp for Wharfedale Linton speakers (which nominal impedance is 6Ω and minimal impedance is 3.5Ω, recommended power is 25-200W). Currently I'm using pre-amp and Audiolab 6000A as power-amp (Audiolab is 2 X 50W at 8Ω or 2 X 75W at 4Ω), but I have impression it lacks power. Why I think so? Bass is sometimes strange, hollow or something, missing it's "weight". Will this be a good match (BasX A2 + Lintons)?

[@jimmartin9711]

I am in the process of selling my Pioneer 110 wpc x 7 channel AVR receiver and going with a XTZ EDGE A2-300 and a Bluesound Node 2i. I like the ability to taylor my cost where i see fit. It is not such a large expense to change my individual components as needed down the road. My tastes have changed and I do not need the 7 channel for movies as all the kids are out of the house now and I enjoy just music through the system. I do have the ability to run my TV through the Node 2i and benefit from my stereo speakers and excellent surround sound perception. I may add a preamp down the road but do not need one at this point. Again I enjoy swapping components as needed. Thanks for the review as the BasX A2 was my other option vs the XTZ EDGE A2-300. I made this decision based on your XTZ review. Very happy with the XTZ.

[@decaf77]

Thank you both for the amazing review! Since these new amps came out I have been having a hard time choosing between the A3 or the XPA3 for my klipsch RP LCR. I listen in a medium size room, so maybe to Andrews point, given Klipsch’s sensitivity the A3 will be sufficient as well as save me money? Also, I love having Kriti’s take, she keeps us crazy audiophiles in check.

[@jamesturnbough3695]

A little clarity if you will. Most receivers and separate amps show their wattage at 8 ohms and 4ohms. I've got a 5.0 set of Jamo 606 rated at 6 ohms. On the 6 ohm speakers do they just get a halfway step up between the 8 ohm and 4 ohm ratings? Or is it more of a floating range when extra power is required. Thanks in advance

[@bphilbac]

Great review! And yes, I do like separates and will continue to use and own them as long as they keep making them.

[@FlyGuy457]

I can imagine a lot of folks will complain about the blue LED. I own Emotiva and love it. I have to say, if you trouble with something you can turn off but don't , then do you have a problem it is too loud yet don't turn down? Come on my audio friends, ask Emotiva to change it out for amber if you must or simply touch the button and dim or turn off.

[@KimmiM14x]

Struggling to decide between this amp and the XTZ A2-300. To be used with Klipsch RP-280F speakers with an Marantz SR6011 pre-amp. What's your thoughts?

[@davidboggs7519]

Excellent review as usual. I have no experience with the BasX line, so I may be speaking out of turn. However I use Emotiva HC-1s to power my Tektons, best decision I've ever made. The power is literally limitless, in a very large room 110 db is not even breaking a sweat for these monsters. Personally I love the looks, they look what I can only describe as "mature". As I said I don't know anything about the BasX line, but I'm madly in love with what I know of Emotiva.

[@Monsux]

What I wait for the most is Kristi's take on every review. It's so great to hear other perspectives and she sounds lovely.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

She is lovely and she has good insight for sure!

[@KristiWright]

Thank you for watching! You are too kind!

[@ronhjr1969]

Hello, using a Denon avr-x4400h receiver, I am running: Focal 826-D in the front and front Atmos ( right and Left ) Focal Center Chora - Center Channel Focal 806- Rear speakers ( right and Left ) Focal Chora Surround Walls speakers ( right and Left ) SVS SB-3000 Subwoofer klipsch Reference R-40SA- (rear right and Left Atmos) To make this all work, I added a: Niles S-2100 power amp to run the 826's. The 826's: Recommended amplifier power: 40-250W The Denon is : 125w per channel The Niles power amp is 100w per channel. Denon recommends the amp be connected to the 826's... So is the Nile too small or should I return it and get something atleast 125w? 8ohms/ like the Emotiva Basx A2??

[@rejean2744]

I like the blue lights. They match my eyes.

[@charlietuna127]

Love Emotiva ! I love all of there products. Been an audiophile all of my life and never found better value for great sound. Review the T 1 or T2 Towers !

[@willburren1957]

The discussion at the end was very helpful. Thank you.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Thanks for watching until the end and I'm glad it was helpful.

[@willburren1957]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews I have never owned any separates so it was a nice intro. After watching, I probably don't need them myself.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

@@willburren1957 Hey, don't spend money if you don't need to.

[@vrsimha]

I have XPA2 Gen 3 and XPA 200 amps. The LED light indicator is important for a true Audiophile. During boot up its Red and turns Blue once the amp is ready. Focus should be on the Sound, we have lights on all consumer products, TV, CD Player, AV Receiver, etc. If there is a fault it will turn RED and it makes the owner aware something is not right. If you switch off the LED switch at the back you won't be able to see if its clipping or other issues. A small blue light won't hurt the eyes if we are concentrating on the music or movie. Just my thoughts.

[@ferrisburgh802]

Got the A2 to drive my ML 60xt tower speakers (the AVR is the Marantz sSR7013) ran Audyssey and there is definitely a noticeable difference in the sound (classical music and jazz, Miles Davis (Sketches of Spain) in a positive sense. Leaving the Marantz to handle the center, sub-woofer and surrounds has resulted in a better all around sound for my system.

[@Youevl]

One question...how did you connect the speaker, with jumpers or bi-wired???

[@ferrisburgh802]

@@Youevl I just used the banana plugs. There are no longer any front speaker connections to the AVR. To amplify what I said about the sound I was disappointed with the Marantz running the ML speakers which are nominally 4ohms. Once I hooked up the Emotiva it was like day and night with the sound stage, the sound just came alive which makes me question the Marantz technical specs they put out. On a side note I had the Marantz SR7012 to test which I set to 4ohms to match the speakers and that was a no go because the AVR keep shutting down mid-way a CD played at normal volume levels. When I reset it to 8ohms the problem went away which might lead one to come to the conclusion that the power just wasn't there to drive the Martin Logans.

[@coloradoklutch8005]

I'm really liking this EMOTIVA power amp. But I'm pretty baffled by pre-amps. Whenever I see one that seems to be what I'm looking for, the price is beyond ridiculous. I would really appreciate some familiarization and review videos for currently available pre-amps.

[@snauspockets9924]

The 2020 Denons(3700, 4700, 6700) have a new "pre-amp" mode where you can turn off all the amps and just use it as a processor. Feature laden btw. The Denon X3700h in pre-amp mode is a pretty cheap way of going until you figure out what you want to do.

[@tonymaldonado8116]

Thanks you for this video.. I been on the fence on this issue... you made it easy... I am going to buy my first amplifier...

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Happy to know the review was helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@titan90000]

Good review and timing. I stared researching the A2 this morning to go with the PT-100.

[@cjlhessing]

Got the A3 to run the LCR channels - im running KEF R3s and they dip a bit lower than the Arcam AVR likes. The A3? Outstanding! I'm sure the others in the line up are just as good. Totally plug and play, all things needed are in the box (trigger, mains plug) and yeah, it just works.

[@josephfranzen5626]

I upgraded from a Denon x4300h, to a Marantz SR6015 and onto an Emo 13.2 Pre/Pro with a Bas-X A6, A3 and my older Carver AV705x 5 channel. While the Emo’s GUI is quite simple and not as streamlined as a Sound United product nor is it’s room correction nearly as effective and efficient when you take MultiEQ-X into account it was also only $870 out the door with a small military discount from Emo. I use REW to generate EQ filters out to 500hz and simply manually enter the values into the Emo MC1 processor. As far as the A series power amps I’ve ran everything from M&K towers and bookshelf speakers to Mirage M1’s and M3’s with no issues and for the price I’m very impressed.

[@robo3412]

Great content! Question, would adding an Emotiva basx a7 or XPA place my Onkyo RZ 50 on par or above the Marantz Cinema 50?

[@S_a_n22]

This one was very smooth. I really enjoy my a300. Thank for the review guys.

[@1987tburg]

Any thoughts on a video discussing things like Isoacoustics and/or speaker stands in the future? Love the channel!

[@S.L.1211]

I’d prefer an all in one (like the Naim Unity Atom or the new Cambridge Audio release) or at least a good integrated amp that gets me 90% of where I want to be sonically. I like that simplicity & minimalism. PS that new Cambridge EVO series has me so curious how it sounds. It’s basically everything I was looking for when I was shopping for a new amp 5 months ago.

[@KristiWright]

I'm with you on more all in one solutions! The EVO is heading our way stuck in customs so a review is coming in the next month or so.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

Don't get me wrong, I 100% prefer all-in-one solutions over separates, even if it means giving up a small percentage of performance. The EVO is in route so stay tuned!

[@sdemosi]

@@andrewrobinsonreviews can't wait. I'm a big Cambridge Audio fan. I'd be interested to hear your thoughts for the Evo versus the CXNv2 & CXA81 streamer & A/B amp pair as I think you reviewed these already. I have this set in my study so curious to see how you think the Evo stacks up? It uses a class D Hypex nCore amp which is a good choice for an all-in-one product and also less power hungry so better for the environment. A lot of purists scoff at class D but it has power efficiency advantages.

[@paulmastermann2200]

@@sdemosi also cant wait for a Review of the new CA Evo! And a comparison to cx81 and Bluesound Node 2 i :)) thank you!!!

[@andrewgorenc9160]

Great video Andrew and Kristi! (Low-key star of the video were those blue L82 quadrex grilles!)

[@cameronkrause4712]

about your question as to whether I care about having separates or not. For quite a while, I did like to switch amps and preamps up a bit. The novelty of that has worn thin now and my integrated amp is working out well at handling all the things that my separates did and plus a few extra things too.

[@zachmodipa2549]

Why she has got a problem with the blue lights, I have no idea. This unit is decent looking.

[@rodrogers7553]

Hey Andrew, I was rockin' Crown before you were rockin' anything! My Crown units are 40 years old and still kickin' ass!!

[@billhayes5047]

Fantastic, just ordered this (a2) to go with my new Denon 3800h. This will enable me to use all channels at a reasonable budget. My first step into power amps ... it sounds ideal 👌

[@edmoore4431]

thinking of doing the exact same

[@inigomontoya6806]

I have an Emotiva XPA that has 3 power modules installed for the front channels, which did make a noticeable improvement, especially in dynamic range and effortlessness. I considered loading it up with stereo modules also, to drive the other speakers but did not, for the reason you alluded to. They all would share the same power supply. I have considered getting another XPA loaded with stereo modules but at $2000, the Base-X (Bas-ics?) at $699 makes more sense. I just wish that they made them with more channels available, and that Emotiva still had sales. I will also weigh in about how annoying the blue lights are, and defeating them was the first thing I did.

[@dlloyd6300]

I Think Kristi adds a ton to these reviews. She brings up common man questions that are relevant but maybe overlooked by the more technical in the audience. You can tell that she is intelligent, while maybe not having the in depth audiophile vocabulary, which leads to great conversation. She is a very good balance.

[@timball4892]

I have a BasX A300 as well as heir PT100 and find them to offer outstanding value. I use them in a second system with Triangle Treo's. Very musical and relatively economical. Not really that far behind my main system which os comprised of Cornwall IV's and Rogue separate tube components. Sorry, Kristie, but I like the blue. Lights match my Rogue and Technics SL1200GR. Love your reviews!

[@FragBoyStewie]

Excellent review as always! Been pulling my hairs on why Crown isn't the obvious choice for everybody given their low cost but, thanks to you, now I know a emotiva is the way to go for me.

[@andrewrobinsonreviews]

So glad you found the review helpful and thank you so much for tuning in!

[@mundie33]

In a normal room you won’t hear anything negative with the crown and it’ll no doubt last longer though they do look terrible

[@jkairi4]

@@mundie33 I heard crown amplifiers are noisy.

[@mundie33]

Amad Zee the thing is when the noise floor of your room is 50+ db it doesn’t matter

[@omarseneriz5577]

Andrew, Thank You for the great review. I picked up a three channel amp from Emotiva.. not that unit but the XPA 3 Gen 3 3. Just like you indicated to support my front stage. My receiver is a Marantz 8012.. a very capable receiver for sure. I am driving Bowers and Wilkins 704 towers and center channel. For surround if have 2 additional Bowers and 4 SVS primes elevation for atoms. Before adding the emotiva the sounds was very clean and great for sure. After I set the Emotiva up with my system it did made a world of different and truly appreciate separate at this point. As for the design, I personally love the blue since it also goes well with my Marantz and Parasound line conditioner. At the end design will always be objective.. we need to focus on quality. Marantz and Emotiva are both build with great quality materials and look awesome. Everything you said on this video it is 100% accurate but one must experience and see to understand. Thank You

[@chrisrizzo627]

I have a pioneer elite sc07 paired with 4ohm Vienna acoustics Hayden grand speakers. Would adding one of these be help drive the speakers? Currently have 5 speaker set up. Which one would be best to order?

[@number1pappy]

I have an older model Emotiva 7 channel amp hooked up to my denon avr and all this tech talk is way above my pay grade. However, what I emmediatly noticed when I hooked it up was everything just sounded better! First thing I noticed was my front stage was actually clearer in the sense that I could hear the separation a whole lot better! My surrounds also sounded crisper and cleaner for lack of a better description. Like I said I'm not an audiophile by no means but, once I got a separate amp my system just came alive. It was the one thing that was missing. Now music in 2 channel sounds amazing and my movie sound actually has incredible separation and just way better. If anyone is on the fence about a separation amp I would definitely do it. You will not regret it,I promise.

[@victorvalenzuela6949]

I really like what you said at the end. 👍🏼 Thank you I’ll be buying the Bass X-A3 like you said front stage for movies 🍿 and 2.2 when I listen to music. I have 7.2.2 SVS gear and my wife and kids asked what I want for Father’s Day 🔊🔊 Thanks again you help me with my decision.

[@p3030134]

Great job as always, with the exception that this time Kristy sounded "strange"... louder than normal. Did you change something, or trying something new? Her audio had more noise...