With all the crazy recent price increases in Hi Fi components, I think a lot of people are giving companies like SMSL and Topping a second look due to their price / performance values. Outstanding review 👍. Thanks!
Your video pushed me to purchase the AO200. I paired with my SMSL SU-8. This combo sounds just as good as my Vincent Sp-331 amp/SU-8. Thanks for the review!!!
I just recieved my AO200 on Monday and really love it, replacing a Yamaha RN602 which I had to have at 80 - 90% max volume to get 80ish db, the AO200 I only need 30 to 35 on the volume to reach >80db, I only use Bluetooth and CD player so very efficient design for me and I also like the SDB EQ setting to get a some nice bass from my Dali Zensor 5. Just sounds great and have been listening to my music all over again.
I appreciate the insight you provide. In your opinion what is the best speakers you would pair with the AO200 (on it's own without a preamp). A another way of phrasing the question would be "which speakers in your opinion would pair well with AO200"? Understanding that there is a price limit that makes sense for this amp.
Marvelous sound. Very well match and well recorded video. Unexpectedly good class D amplifier with such reasonable price. I am using 200 watt pre/power class AB at the moment. This new technologies sound very intresting. Will try soon. Thanks for sharing.
First of all just to say great job, I really enjoy your reviews. Question - if using in speaker only setup , does a preamp enhance the SQ or is it the same as with the amp directly connected to DAC? I am considering to buy this amp, hence the question, since I dont use headphones. Btw the sound demo sounds fantastic. Thank you!
I'm probably going to buy a Topping ex5 or similar, because it has a headphone output, nice orange display, will be on my desk whereas SMSL ao200 will be on the other side of the room, so I don't worry about them looking odd stacked on each other :)
I have this combination i notice that the bass can be a bit boomy at times, i am using two subwoofers in my setup, may have to disable the bass in the menu, overall sound quality is quite good.
Hi, thanks for the great content. Some reviews say the A300 is the best sounding S.M.S.L. amp. I am looking for a good class D amp for my Wharfedale Linton, leaning towards one between the A300 and AO200. Which one would you recommend? I currently use an old Arcam Delta 290, do you think it would be a step down?
Hi, Tharbamar! First i would like to say your channel is realy great. As iam also very big lover of heavy metal, i would realy appreciate, if you could propose some speakers that are god for heavy metal in small room i am having great dilemas what to buy.
This sounds great, thinking of a topping E50 to my setup. My setup: Bluesound node 2i Topping E50 with ifi audio Ipowerx Xtz edge a2 300 amp CSS Criton 1TD-X basic crossover What do you think of that? Curios?🙂
Hi Tharbamar, another great and informative review. I have a question on a different subject. Music Direct has the Wharfedale Diamond 225 marked down to $299. It's been a while since you reviewed this speaker so I was wondering if you still consider this speaker a worthwhile purchase, considering the other speakers that you have heard and reviewed in that time? Thanks very much.
Hi, not sure if you remember but my Sabaj A10a just arrived a couple of days ago, would the AO200 be a noticeable step up from the Sabaj A10a? Speaker is rp600m and dac is the Topping E30. Thank you sir
Thank you very much. Will the AO200 sound better than the Denafrips Thallo (although it's class AB)? And which cable and connector do you use for power supply? Thank you very much.
Hi Tharbamar. I really dig your channel. Always clear reviews straight to the point. I just bought the B&W 707s2, based on your review form years ago, but im having troubles to pair them properly with a good amp. Do you think this combo is a good combination? Or should i step up into something more powerful like SA400. Or simply look for some AB amplifier instead of a class D amp? Thank you very much in advance.
Thanks for the review, im new to the stereo world Right now i have the smsl dac su-8s combined with smsl ao200 , Should i get this pre-amp ? Pls help Thanks a lots
Hi, it will be good enhancement if you like to have it as separate from power and pre, which to me is more engaging to listen my music than A0200 alone, thanks
I'm kinda in the same boat - addding the preamp OR upgrading my dac - see my recent post up top of list asking similar question - same in your case would be instead of adding the preamp would taking that $$ and getting a better DAC (not that yours is not good - it may in fact be my upgrade) for the $$....
I got loxjie d50 and smsl ao200 month ago after your review and they sound fantastic ..For this time, will the preamp ho200 make any different to sound stage .. coz I’m at 30-35% on AO200 and it is very loud already on all 3 pair of speakers .. bass is good enough consider they might well match in/out impedance.. Thanks 😊
If you are happy as it is no need for HO200 but if you like more organic sound it can be good improvement, depending on your preference. Personally I like the way they sound together than AO200 alone, you can also try D50 as pre amp to see if you like the sound, thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks 🙏 I’m currently set loxjie d50 at fixed mode and pair with AO200 .. I will try HO200 if it makes an improvement.. again your review is fantastic and helpful 😃 keep it up my friend
Thank you. Will order one and compare to yamaha pc 2002 with luxman headphone selector for my r70x with passive pre-amp from tc-electronics. Its a lot of stuff for experiment and its sounds good, but Ive also wanted to have good but small headphone amp. Btw legendary pc 2002 PA has only ballanced XLR inputs, not "fully ballanced". Btw2 Iam using r70x, much better for me than veiled/"vfxed" hd600 in terms on "naturality". As a dac Iam using d70s via optical cable (becouse its more natural/punchy than usb, but maybe a tad less detailed)
UPDATE: Ive compared it to my yamaha pc2002 and no doubt HO200 is 1-2 steps lower level in every way with or without pre-amp. I have sold HO200. I do not recommend buying it. I have no doubt that yamaha will beat HO200 with any pre-amp. So statement "beat any under 1k $" is defently wrong. No offense, just obvious listening tests/experience.
If you have Integrated Amp with Pre in, most likely volume control is disabled when that feature is enable but something like AO200 is different story because it just power amplifier with volume control, thanks
@@Tharbamar I have the integrated Cyrus One with an AV in and when is enabled, it automatically maximizes volume control. So I guess the only solution from adjusting the volume is the preamp. Am I correct?
Thank you for your valuable reviews! How does the HO200 compares with the Topping Pre90? Is the difference in price worthy, and for which? With the Pre90 you get a remote and with the HO200 you get a headphone amp! I would like your opinions!
It’s easy choice for me, I don’t like digital display and switches on my Pre, HO200 is a joy to use and enjoy my music. I would always choose headphone amp over remote control, Thanks
Using dedicated preamp is bypassing built in pre stage is big improvement, if you use direct setting in AO200, you can use remote control with AO200. I have not tried VMV series so I can’t comment on it.
@@Tharbamar do you mean AO200 instead of AO300? I don't get fully how it needs to be configured. I will watch the video again. Would this be a good match with Dali Rubicon 2? I have an smsl A8 which sounds good but it has some weird control.
Sorry, it’s been corrected now, I use direct setting in AO200 with gain at max when using external pre but I can’t comment on how is going sound or work with A8, all my comments are base on AO200 and HO200 combination, thanks
I have this hopefully arriving tomorrow. Going to have SMSL DO200 and SMSL AO200 stack. I wonder how small DO200 + SMSL AO200 will compare in sound versus SMSL DO200 + Reisong A10 tube amplifier?
I bought the SMSL Series 200 Trio last month. Right now I have the DO200 DAC connected directly to the AO200 amp via XLR cables after getting signals from my vintage Denon DCD 3500RG via coaxial cable. The HO200 is used only as a headphone amp, connected to the RCA terminal of the DO200 as well as the XLR output of the CD player. Would it be sonically more advantageous to use the HO as preamplifier, to be put in between the DO DAC and AO power amp instead ?
Would this preamp be a better performer than that built into the SMSL DO200 DAC? I have the SMSL DO200 DAC and a 2.1 Active Speakers(Powered Subwoofer driving a pair of satellite studio desktop monitors). I can connect the DO200 directly to my 2.1 Speakers and use the pre-out of the DO200 to control volume or I can buy the HO200 pre-amp and put in between the DO200 DAC and the active speakers and use the HO200 to control volume. Which setup would you recommend?
@@Tharbamar I currently have my DO200 connected directly to my AO200 via XLR. Would it be worthwhile to add in the HO200 in between them to further improve the sound? Or do you think it's unnecessary? Thanks for your advice.
Just got the SMSL AO200 and want to know the best way to connect a sub. Can I just take one of the sub out and plug in my svs sub's LFE or do I have to use 2 cables from the amp to the sub? Also I didn't see any speaker settings in the AO200 to set as large/small or crossover setting.
One question is just killing me. How can I hear the difference in headphones connected to the DAC when I change the tone controls in amplifier itself? Seems like there is no EQ settings in DAC/Headphone Amps, right?
Saw your another video on SMSL latest SU-9n DAC, now a day SMSL really create something that shock us at this kind of price level. With that DAC add into this combo, will it be an insane combo (can I use this word 😜)?
Great review as always ! My question is did you use the Topping E50 DAC because it is a better combination sound wise than the SMSL DAC? Also I am considering the SMSL streamer at $400 usd if I recall well... should I still buy the pre amp (will it add much to the combo?). Thanks!
mind you iem strength is also can produce same level of ambience as headphones, so excessive bass arent necessary to get/ be a studio monitor if its for casual listening, just buy it
Isn't a "power amp" just power? Or is the meaning of the term changing? EDIT// SMSL seems to be using the term for what till now would have been called integrated amplifier, or simply an amplifier. I guess they're trying to differentiate between the headphone amp/pre-amp and the other "normal" amplifier. (I'm not a headphone user myself, so I may be misinterpreting here)
I'm a newbie s... If I'm switching smsl ao200 with smsl m av1 on this three combination It will slightly increasing sound quality etc... Or not significant impact... I plan to buying..those... Tnks u Nice vedeo
PLEASE HELP - Ok so I am still a little confused about upgrading my ELECTRONICS which are now SMSL SM200 DAC/AO200 amp/ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 spks.......I could upgrade just the SM200 DAC to SU-8s or SU-9n or DO200 even maybe to used Topping D70S DAC - OR - instead add this HO200 preamp to my existing SM200 DAC/AO200 amp.....which would be the best upgrade path - DAC upgrade OR Preamp HO200 add? Can't afford both paths now - Just one next move now.....Anyone please chime in with YOUR pick please and elaborate if you can
I've connected an external solid state preamp successfully with Volume at Full and in Direct mode as you've described, except using RCA, not XLR. However, when I try this with tube preamps (Audio Research SPA-3A-1 or Dynaco PAS3x) the AO200 screams so loudly when I reach 48 on the volume control, I have to back off immediately before it blows my speakers. Do you think there is a problem using tube preamps with the AO200, that there might be some kind of impedance mismatch?
@@Tharbamar I think you're right. My Audio Research preamp gain is 23db and my Dynaco preamp gain is 20db which is higher than the High Gain choice on the SMSL HO200. So does that mean external tube preamps can't be used with the AO200? If you chose High Gain on your HO200, does it scream before the volume can be turned up to Full? Thanks Tharbamar for your assistance.
Any chance that you can do a video on their higher range SP400 + SA400 (may be together with M400 DAC if possible)? Very very... curious how are they partner with Elac Unifi Referece. This is combo result that we are waiting for...
Hi Tharbamar, many thanks for the review. With Class A gear often being heavy for pandemic-related travel, was always having Class D gear in mind. This review helps me lock in on the gear to get. Nice if you can point me to SMSL and Topping's Indian distributor.
I have the integrated Cyrus One with an AV in and when is enabled, it automatically maximizes volume control. So I guess the only solution from adjusting the volume is the preamp when I want to use the Cyrus as a power amp only. Am I correct?
No, that’s not the only way. It’s probably the best IMO, but you could also use a cheap $50 (or less if you DIY) passive volume control, or even a fancy schmantzy passive one too. You may, or may not need the gain a preamp gives, but probably not from an integrated like that. And another solution is a source that has high output (say 2 volts, or better), and a volume control. Like a DAC, and/or CD player for instance. Some even have more output, like my Topping D70s MQA (2.5 volts SE/4 volts Balanced) for instance. You can also use a tube buffer with a volume control (such as a Schiit Audio Saga “preamp”, or The Truth “preamp which both can drive longer cables then a passive, and don’t necessarily need a high voltage source, or even a low impedance one either). Or one of the many new hifi style volume controls out there, like transformer VC for instance. There’s another one that uses light instead of an actual electrical connection (The Truth uses this too actually). But they can get pricey ( The Truth is around $1,000 US). Also you could use your phone, digital streamer/transport, or computer’s digital volume (Chromecast Audio would do, and be cheap, as well as a Raspberry Pi type transport, or Pi DAC. Pretty sure there’s some that have a physical volume control also, and again very reasonable). If you use either one as a source. If you only ever need lower volume. You could wire in a couple of resistors to each speaker, and just have it set where you like it. And there was at least one other way that I was thinking of, but I can’t remember ATM. Oh yea, you now I remember. You could use an old receiver, or integrated that has separate jacks for the amp, and power amp. There are still some new ones that do this too, but they were much more popular back in the day, and many work fine IMO. Although some are definitely better then others, like anything else in HiFi. Anyway there’s lots of ways to do it. It’s just a matter of money, preference, the gain structure of that amp and your skill level. And I’m sure that someone else will probably mention another one too, if you’re patient enough. I would give my personal recommendation, but I don’t know all the details about what you’re trying to do, and what your budget is. Either way, hope I helped you some, and have a great night. ✌️
Could I use this Preamp for AB amplifiers. I have a pair of Polk Reserve 200s and the receiver i was going to get is out of stock along with the other av receivers that are from their flagship line. I want to use the R 200s for music and gaming and movies. I was going to buy the Yamaha RXA4A but it's out of stock.
Hi friend, I followed your advice and bought the Smsl dac Do200 and Smsl headphone amp Ho200, at this point I am using a Forest optical cable of 1.5mt to connect the dac to the pc and its doing an ok job. But I want a 2mt usb 2.0 A-B that can give me more open space feel and imaging. My Headphone at this point is the Sennheiser HD599SE. unfortunately the combo took all my cash😅 and I can't spare more than 60 to 70$ for the cable, can you please give me a good advise here, to what to look for? Thank you!
@@Tharbamar thanks a lot for your Time. i have a rotel A12 now. I want to sell it to buy with the money : SMSL AO200 + Topping E50 + IFI ZEN PHONO. It is a fair trade to your opinion ? I need your advice on it man !!
If I understand this correctly, turning the volume up 100% on the AO200 eliminates the volume control resistance, effectively taking it out of the circuit. And in Direct mode, you're bypassing the tone circuitry, but is it also bypassing the OPA1678 preamp chip? (otherwise you'd be running one preamp through another) If it does bypass the OPA1678 which you say is limiting the amp's potential, and is why you replaced it with the HO200 preamp, do you know what preamp chip the HO200 uses? I'm just wondering if the OPA1678 chip could be replaced with the same chip used in the HO200 to get the same sound quality while saving the extra $379 required for a whole new HO200 preamp. Especially since the purpose of buying an AO200 is to contain cost. I don't need a headphone amp, but would like to get the best performance from the AO200.
Yes that’s is correct but the different is HO200 use multiple OPA564+OPA1612A feedback circuit with end to end balanced design, sound improvement is not marginal for my use and set up but if you play around with AO200 EQ setting you should be able to get very good sound, thanks
@@Tharbamar Is the improvement a result of a better preamp, or because of balanced output. If it's because of balanced output, wouldn't the end to end balanced design of Topping E50 straight into balanced AO200 achieve the same sound quality without the need for a separate preamp? Thanks.
Great Question !!! And why can't you get a nice preamp only upgrade without the expense of the headphone circuit - ?? Seems like a no-brainer and easy for SMSL etc. to pull off for maybe $200-250.....max
Why not just use the ao200 with the topping dac? No need for the ho200 with this setup. Should get a cleaner sound just using the ao200 since it already has a preamp built in.
@@Tharbamar I just mean the AO200 itself has a preamp built in, it's like an integrated amp so no need for another preamp after the dac or in front of the AO200.
@@Tharbamar I'm not so sure that's the case. The NJW1194 volume chip does an amazing job. It works the same as any other integrated amp with a digital volume control.
Recent years I had Parasound P5, JC 2 and PS Audio Gain Cell and some old Pre amps from Esoteric and Accuphase in late 90s. EDIT, also had Denon PRA2000 as well.
Ok record your room while your system playing from 10ft away and upload it RUclips to see if that sound better, otherwise your judgement is not credible.
@@Tharbamar That is illogical. Your methodology is flawed. It is an objective fact. Just listen to it. You’re saying I should follow your flawed methodology and if I don’t get better results I have no credibility. I don’t expect different results using the same flawed methodology. That is illogical. Your recordings sound like a tin can echo chamber. That is just a fact. Do what u want with the constructive criticism… but I suggest u should not take it personally. I am certainly not questioning your credibility. However if u deny that the recording sounds tin can-ish I would question your hearing. It sounds brutal… I don’t doubt it is hard to record the sound with accuracy without distortion.
Ηi pal . If you played some electric blues or classic rock tracks i 'd appreciate a lot, in order to get a larger picture of this setup.[ sorry ,but on your video there is not ''real world '' music ]
Can’t make everyone happy, define real world music. Probably you meant to say the music that you like. Please remember I cannot play any music I like on RUclips due to copyright issues.
@@Tharbamar O.K my friend .I mentioned above, what kind of music i mean .Music including just vocals and piano can not show the real potential of the audio gear .
Piano, vocals, acoustics and micro detail of live recording is one of the best way shows quality of amplifiers to hear how accurate or natural they can be but to each of own, it’s the easiest way determining the true sound quality of amplifiers.
Totally nonsence to connect a preamplifier to a 50 KOhm input of an fully amplifier!! You can connect the DAC directly to the 50 KOhm input of the amplifier!!
@@Tharbamar Amplifier? I have build 20 amplifiers from DIY modules. Such as Accuphase E 450 or the new chips sk18752. But there is not much diffrence in the sound - but the speakers must all be adjusted with an equalizer!! Because all speakers have a huge diffrent sound.
With all the crazy recent price increases in Hi Fi components, I think a lot of people are giving companies like SMSL and Topping a second look due to their price / performance values. Outstanding review 👍. Thanks!
And many of them have been very happy with their decision. thanks
Your video pushed me to purchase the AO200. I paired with my SMSL SU-8. This combo sounds just as good as my Vincent Sp-331 amp/SU-8. Thanks for the review!!!
Awesome, thanks
I just recieved my AO200 on Monday and really love it, replacing a Yamaha RN602 which I had to have at 80 - 90% max volume to get 80ish db, the AO200 I only need 30 to 35 on the volume to reach >80db, I only use Bluetooth and CD player so very efficient design for me and I also like the SDB EQ setting to get a some nice bass from my Dali Zensor 5. Just sounds great and have been listening to my music all over again.
A0200 is a very good affordable amplifier for sure, thanks
I read several people mention that about Yamaha amps. My R-N803 behaves the same, volume dang near maxed to get adequate sound.
I appreciate the insight you provide. In your opinion what is the best speakers you would pair with the AO200 (on it's own without a preamp). A another way of phrasing the question would be "which speakers in your opinion would pair well with AO200"? Understanding that there is a price limit that makes sense for this amp.
Marvelous sound. Very well match and well recorded video. Unexpectedly good class D amplifier with such reasonable price. I am using 200 watt pre/power class AB at the moment. This new technologies sound very intresting. Will try soon. Thanks for sharing.
La preuve qu'il est tout à fait possible de se construire un système sans y mettre 10.000€. Le résultat est quand même surprenant
This is a fantastic channel. Thank you!!!
Wished they put a HDMI-ARC port on 1 of their devices so I can also use it for my TV.
Great, thorough review, thanks!
Very good, well done, on your good work and your appreciation for music and hifi.
First of all just to say great job, I really enjoy your reviews. Question - if using in speaker only setup , does a preamp enhance the SQ or is it the same as with the amp directly connected to DAC? I am considering to buy this amp, hence the question, since I dont use headphones. Btw the sound demo sounds fantastic. Thank you!
Sound quality and signature is the same, it has natural and slightly on warm side, Thanks
I'm probably going to buy a Topping ex5 or similar, because it has a headphone output, nice orange display, will be on my desk whereas SMSL ao200 will be on the other side of the room, so I don't worry about them looking odd stacked on each other :)
I have a Sprout100 in my den and really like it. These look like good alternatives. Good looking pieces too.
I have this combination i notice that the bass can be a bit boomy at times, i am using two subwoofers in my setup, may have to disable the bass in the menu, overall sound quality is quite good.
Very nicely present demo with my Senh. HD 600👍
I wonder if it can drive a pair of LS3/5A.
Hi, thanks for the great content. Some reviews say the A300 is the best sounding S.M.S.L. amp. I am looking for a good class D amp for my Wharfedale Linton, leaning towards one between the A300 and AO200. Which one would you recommend? I currently use an old Arcam Delta 290, do you think it would be a step down?
I owned both and thought the AO200 was both better sounding and better built with Elac Debut Reference spkrs
Hi, Tharbamar!
First i would like to say your channel is realy great. As iam also very big lover of heavy metal, i would realy appreciate, if you could propose some speakers that are god for heavy metal in small room i am having great dilemas what to buy.
Currently I’m enjoying ELAC UBR62 which I think is one of the best in the price range and KEF Q350 is another great buy as well, thanks
This sounds great, thinking of a topping E50 to my setup.
My setup:
Bluesound node 2i
Topping E50 with ifi audio Ipowerx
Xtz edge a2 300 amp
CSS Criton 1TD-X basic crossover
What do you think of that? Curios?🙂
Hi Tharbamar, another great and informative review. I have a question on a different subject. Music Direct has the Wharfedale Diamond 225 marked down to $299. It's been a while since you reviewed this speaker so I was wondering if you still consider this speaker a worthwhile purchase, considering the other speakers that you have heard and reviewed in that time? Thanks very much.
Hi, Yes Diamond 225 is very good sounding speakers even compared to others in 2021, $299 for a pair of them is very good price, thanks
@@Tharbamar Thanks!
Hi, not sure if you remember but my Sabaj A10a just arrived a couple of days ago, would the AO200 be a noticeable step up from the Sabaj A10a? Speaker is rp600m and dac is the Topping E30. Thank you sir
Yes it will be noticeable improvement over A10a, thanks
great sound great review
Thank you very much. Will the AO200 sound better than the Denafrips Thallo (although it's class AB)?
And which cable and connector do you use for power supply?
Thank you very much.
I have not tried Thallo to give you right answer, please see video description for associated equipments, thanks
Excellent review! can i use two subwoofers simultaneously on ao200 ?
Yes you can. Thanks
Hello THarbamar,did you plug the AO200 into a power conditioner or straight into the wall power outlet?
I connect it straight to the wall.
Okay thanks, much appreciated, have a good day and keep up the good work,
Hi Tharbamar. I really dig your channel. Always clear reviews straight to the point.
I just bought the B&W 707s2, based on your review form years ago, but im having troubles to pair them properly with a good amp. Do you think this combo is a good combination? Or should i step up into something more powerful like SA400. Or simply look for some AB amplifier instead of a class D amp?
Thank you very much in advance.
Hi, this pair will sound nice with 707 S2 but if you like AB amps check out from Marantz or Rotel amps for best synergy with your speakers, thanks
@@Tharbamar Thanks! Very kind from you. Keep on the good work. Great channel!
Very good value indeed. Wonder how they pair with old Quad 22L which has a laid back easy listening sound.
It will sound great for sure, thanks
Hi,, nice review! Can you set a cut off frequency (or it at least has one) for the sub out on the AO200?
It’s fixed, thanks
Thanks for the review, im new to the stereo world
Right now i have the smsl dac su-8s combined with smsl ao200 ,
Should i get this pre-amp ? Pls help
Thanks a lots
Hi, it will be good enhancement if you like to have it as separate from power and pre, which to me is more engaging to listen my music than A0200 alone, thanks
I'm kinda in the same boat - addding the preamp OR upgrading my dac - see my recent post up top of list asking similar question - same in your case would be instead of adding the preamp would taking that $$ and getting a better DAC (not that yours is not good - it may in fact be my upgrade) for the $$....
Hello, nice review. How does the preamp connect to the amp? With XLR preamp out to the amp XLR input?
With XLR cables.
@@Tharbamar But it doesn’t bypass the preamp section on the AO200?
Nice...REAL NICE! TY!
I got loxjie d50 and smsl ao200 month ago after your review and they sound fantastic ..For this time, will the preamp ho200 make any different to sound stage .. coz I’m at 30-35% on AO200 and it is very loud already on all 3 pair of speakers .. bass is good enough consider they might well match in/out impedance.. Thanks 😊
If you are happy as it is no need for HO200 but if you like more organic sound it can be good improvement, depending on your preference.
Personally I like the way they sound together than AO200 alone, you can also try D50 as pre amp to see if you like the sound, thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks 🙏 I’m currently set loxjie d50 at fixed mode and pair with AO200 .. I will try HO200 if it makes an improvement.. again your review is fantastic and helpful 😃 keep it up my friend
Thank you. Will order one and compare to yamaha pc 2002 with luxman headphone selector for my r70x with passive pre-amp from tc-electronics. Its a lot of stuff for experiment and its sounds good, but Ive also wanted to have good but small headphone amp. Btw legendary pc 2002 PA has only ballanced XLR inputs, not "fully ballanced". Btw2 Iam using r70x, much better for me than veiled/"vfxed" hd600 in terms on "naturality". As a dac Iam using d70s via optical cable (becouse its more natural/punchy than usb, but maybe a tad less detailed)
UPDATE: Ive compared it to my yamaha pc2002 and no doubt HO200 is 1-2 steps lower level in every way with or without pre-amp. I have sold HO200. I do not recommend buying it. I have no doubt that yamaha will beat HO200 with any pre-amp. So statement "beat any under 1k $" is defently wrong. No offense, just obvious listening tests/experience.
Should we always put the integrated amp's volume at its highest level and adjust our prefered volume level from the preamp's volume control?
If you have Integrated Amp with Pre in, most likely volume control is disabled when that feature is enable but something like AO200 is different story because it just power amplifier with volume control, thanks
@@Tharbamar I have the integrated Cyrus One with an AV in and when is enabled, it automatically maximizes volume control. So I guess the only solution from adjusting the volume is the preamp. Am I correct?
Yes
Thank you for your valuable reviews! How does the HO200 compares with the Topping Pre90? Is the difference in price worthy, and for which? With the Pre90 you get a remote and with the HO200 you get a headphone amp! I would like your opinions!
It’s easy choice for me, I don’t like digital display and switches on my Pre, HO200 is a joy to use and enjoy my music.
I would always choose headphone amp over remote control, Thanks
@@Tharbamar Thank you for your honest answer!
Can you explain me what the preamp adds to the already good performing amp? Can we also use a remote?
How would the sound compare the new smsl vmv a1?
Using dedicated preamp is bypassing built in pre stage is big improvement, if you use direct setting in AO200, you can use remote control with AO200. I have not tried VMV series so I can’t comment on it.
@@Tharbamar do you mean AO200 instead of AO300? I don't get fully how it needs to be configured. I will watch the video again. Would this be a good match with Dali Rubicon 2? I have an smsl A8 which sounds good but it has some weird control.
Sorry, it’s been corrected now, I use direct setting in AO200 with gain at max when using external pre but I can’t comment on how is going sound or work with A8, all my comments are base on AO200 and HO200 combination, thanks
Hope you will have a chance to take a look at the topping pa3s. Just ordered the e50/l50 based on your review.
I’m not sure about PA3s but E50/L50 is hard to beat for the price, E50 is staying in my system, thanks
@@Tharbamar is it better than something like a chord mojo ?
Can we use 2 (two) AO200 n the preamp HO200 to get more power? Sry noob question here and thanks for the honest review.
I’m not sure if they can bridged to get more power, you have to check with SMSL, thanks
AO200 does not bridge
I have this hopefully arriving tomorrow. Going to have SMSL DO200 and SMSL AO200 stack. I wonder how small DO200 + SMSL AO200 will compare in sound versus SMSL DO200 + Reisong A10 tube amplifier?
Great choice!
@tharbamar please review Topping M50
I bought the SMSL Series 200 Trio last month. Right now I have the DO200 DAC connected directly to the AO200 amp via XLR cables after getting signals from my vintage Denon DCD 3500RG via coaxial cable. The HO200 is used only as a headphone amp, connected to the RCA terminal of the DO200 as well as the XLR output of the CD player. Would it be sonically more advantageous to use the HO as preamplifier, to be put in between the DO DAC and AO power amp instead ?
Source -> DO200 DAC XLR -> HO200 XLR -> AO200 will be quieter.
@@Tharbamar Thank you for your expert advice, Sir !
Would this preamp be a better performer than that built into the SMSL DO200 DAC? I have the SMSL DO200 DAC and a 2.1 Active Speakers(Powered Subwoofer driving a pair of satellite studio desktop monitors). I can connect the DO200 directly to my 2.1 Speakers and use the pre-out of the DO200 to control volume or I can buy the HO200 pre-amp and put in between the DO200 DAC and the active speakers and use the HO200 to control volume. Which setup would you recommend?
With active speakers I would not use another Pre-Amp in between, thanks
@@Tharbamar I currently have my DO200 connected directly to my AO200 via XLR. Would it be worthwhile to add in the HO200 in between them to further improve the sound? Or do you think it's unnecessary? Thanks for your advice.
will this preamp and amp be a good synergy with Polk R200 speakers? thanks! and what other amps will you recommend for R200? thanks in advance
It should sound nice together, thanks
@@Tharbamar thanks so much for the reply. Cheers!
Just got the SMSL AO200 and want to know the best way to connect a sub. Can I just take one of the sub out and plug in my svs sub's LFE or do I have to use 2 cables from the amp to the sub? Also I didn't see any speaker settings in the AO200 to set as large/small or crossover setting.
These do not need speaker setting, LFE sub connection work great.
Have you looked inside the preamp to confirm the XLR has true separated ground?
Nice review thanks
One question is just killing me. How can I hear the difference in headphones connected to the DAC when I change the tone controls in amplifier itself? Seems like there is no EQ settings in DAC/Headphone Amps, right?
What about running the preamp at max volume and controlling volume with the ao200? That way you can control volume with the remote
It may be too much gain but it may work, in that case I would just remove Pre and use AO200.
Saw your another video on SMSL latest SU-9n DAC, now a day SMSL really create something that shock us at this kind of price level. With that DAC add into this combo, will it be an insane combo (can I use this word 😜)?
Yes they are for sure.
@@Tharbamar yeah... great to know that 👍
Great review as always ! My question is did you use the Topping E50 DAC because it is a better combination sound wise than the SMSL DAC? Also I am considering the SMSL streamer at $400 usd if I recall well... should I still buy the pre amp (will it add much to the combo?). Thanks!
mind you iem strength is also can produce same level of ambience as headphones, so excessive bass arent necessary to get/ be a studio monitor
if its for casual listening, just buy it
Isn't a "power amp" just power? Or is the meaning of the term changing? EDIT// SMSL seems to be using the term for what till now would have been called integrated amplifier, or simply an amplifier. I guess they're trying to differentiate between the headphone amp/pre-amp and the other "normal" amplifier. (I'm not a headphone user myself, so I may be misinterpreting here)
I'm a newbie s...
If I'm switching smsl ao200 with smsl m av1 on this three combination
It will slightly increasing sound quality etc...
Or not significant impact...
I plan to buying..those...
Tnks u
Nice vedeo
PLEASE HELP - Ok so I am still a little confused about upgrading my ELECTRONICS which are now SMSL SM200 DAC/AO200 amp/ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 spks.......I could upgrade just the SM200 DAC to SU-8s or SU-9n or DO200 even maybe to used Topping D70S DAC - OR - instead add this HO200 preamp to my existing SM200 DAC/AO200 amp.....which would be the best upgrade path - DAC upgrade OR Preamp HO200 add? Can't afford both paths now - Just one next move now.....Anyone please chime in with YOUR pick please and elaborate if you can
Speaker upgrade would be most noticeable improvement over other components in your system. Thanks
I've connected an external solid state preamp successfully with Volume at Full and in Direct mode as you've described, except using RCA, not XLR. However, when I try this with tube preamps (Audio Research SPA-3A-1 or Dynaco PAS3x) the AO200 screams so loudly when I reach 48 on the volume control, I have to back off immediately before it blows my speakers. Do you think there is a problem using tube preamps with the AO200, that there might be some kind of impedance mismatch?
Please check your Pre Amp output gain, that is only reason, thanks
@@Tharbamar I think you're right. My Audio Research preamp gain is 23db and my Dynaco preamp gain is 20db which is higher than the High Gain choice on the SMSL HO200. So does that mean external tube preamps can't be used with the AO200? If you chose High Gain on your HO200, does it scream before the volume can be turned up to Full? Thanks Tharbamar for your assistance.
Yes I can use every gain setting in HO200 with AO200 at max gain setting without any problem.
Any chance that you can do a video on their higher range SP400 + SA400 (may be together with M400 DAC if possible)? Very very... curious how are they partner with Elac Unifi Referece. This is combo result that we are waiting for...
I no longer have 400 series, thanks
@@Tharbamar is ok
Hi
What would you recommend to get instead of ho200 in same set Up??
Because ho200 is not available in m country
Hi Tharbamar, many thanks for the review. With Class A gear often being heavy for pandemic-related travel, was always having Class D gear in mind. This review helps me lock in on the gear to get. Nice if you can point me to SMSL and Topping's Indian distributor.
I have no idea about their distributors, you'll have to contact them, thanks
@@Tharbamar many thanks for responding 🙏🏻 👍.
Are people in India not allowed to order things from Amazon or ebay? Or are they really expensive via those methods?
What brand and model is the red dac are you using on the desk
I don’t remember could be Topping E30z
hello tharbamar between smsl ao 200 and smsl da9, which one do you recommend? Greetings fom Argentina.-
AO200 is my choice, thanks
@@Tharbamar Muchas gracias por contestar!!
Would this preamp be a better performer than that built into the SU-9 DAC?
Yes definitely.
I have the integrated Cyrus One with an AV in and when is enabled, it automatically maximizes volume control. So I guess the only solution from adjusting the volume is the preamp when I want to use the Cyrus as a power amp only. Am I correct?
Yes.
No, that’s not the only way. It’s probably the best IMO, but you could also use a cheap $50 (or less if you DIY) passive volume control, or even a fancy schmantzy passive one too. You may, or may not need the gain a preamp gives, but probably not from an integrated like that. And another solution is a source that has high output (say 2 volts, or better), and a volume control. Like a DAC, and/or CD player for instance. Some even have more output, like my Topping D70s MQA (2.5 volts SE/4 volts Balanced) for instance.
You can also use a tube buffer with a volume control (such as a Schiit Audio Saga “preamp”, or The Truth “preamp which both can drive longer cables then a passive, and don’t necessarily need a high voltage source, or even a low impedance one either). Or one of the many new hifi style volume controls out there, like transformer VC for instance. There’s another one that uses light instead of an actual electrical connection (The Truth uses this too actually). But they can get pricey ( The Truth is around $1,000 US).
Also you could use your phone, digital streamer/transport, or computer’s digital volume (Chromecast Audio would do, and be cheap, as well as a Raspberry Pi type transport, or Pi DAC. Pretty sure there’s some that have a physical volume control also, and again very reasonable). If you use either one as a source. If you only ever need lower volume. You could wire in a couple of resistors to each speaker, and just have it set where you like it. And there was at least one other way that I was thinking of, but I can’t remember ATM.
Oh yea, you now I remember. You could use an old receiver, or integrated that has separate jacks for the amp, and power amp. There are still some new ones that do this too, but they were much more popular back in the day, and many work fine IMO. Although some are definitely better then others, like anything else in HiFi.
Anyway there’s lots of ways to do it. It’s just a matter of money, preference, the gain structure of that amp and your skill level. And I’m sure that someone else will probably mention another one too, if you’re patient enough. I would give my personal recommendation, but I don’t know all the details about what you’re trying to do, and what your budget is. Either way, hope I helped you some, and have a great night. ✌️
Could I use this Preamp for AB amplifiers. I have a pair of Polk Reserve 200s and the receiver i was going to get is out of stock along with the other av receivers that are from their flagship line. I want to use the R 200s for music and gaming and movies. I was going to buy the Yamaha RXA4A but it's out of stock.
how about instead of the toppings e50, i will use smsl do200 as my dac. would these be better setup?
How about ao200+ho200 vs sa400? About same price, is the combination sounds better than sa400 itself?
SA400 is different not the same sound.
exactly my question is adding the preamp better then the same $$ as a DAC upgrade....????
Hi friend, I followed your advice and bought the Smsl dac Do200 and Smsl headphone amp Ho200, at this point I am using a Forest optical cable of 1.5mt to connect the dac to the pc and its doing an ok job.
But I want a 2mt usb 2.0 A-B that can give me more open space feel and imaging. My Headphone at this point is the Sennheiser HD599SE. unfortunately the combo took all my cash😅 and I can't spare more than 60 to 70$ for the cable, can you please give me a good advise here, to what to look for? Thank you!
Hi, I use Oyaide Class A USB cable, if you check video description all associated components are listed in there, thanks
@@Tharbamar Ok thank you so much, I didn't notice that, thank you for your reply. You are the best!
Hi ! What do you think about an association with kef ls50 meta ?
Should sound nice up to 90-95db range but it will not be that great afterwards.
@@Tharbamar thanks a lot for your Time.
i have a rotel A12 now. I want to sell it to buy with the money : SMSL AO200 + Topping E50 + IFI ZEN PHONO. It is a fair trade to your opinion ? I need your advice on it man !!
I have topping E50 and want to begin with AO200 . Do I need right now the preamp?
Très bon commentaire. Merci !
Can I ask, why do you use HO200? If I connect directly my DAC to AO200, do you think it will not enough?
Volume control through DAC is not good for enough compare to Pre stage, most of the time they sound a bit thin for my liking.
If I understand this correctly, turning the volume up 100% on the AO200 eliminates the volume control resistance, effectively taking it out of the circuit. And in Direct mode, you're bypassing the tone circuitry, but is it also bypassing the OPA1678 preamp chip? (otherwise you'd be running one preamp through another) If it does bypass the OPA1678 which you say is limiting the amp's potential, and is why you replaced it with the HO200 preamp, do you know what preamp chip the HO200 uses? I'm just wondering if the OPA1678 chip could be replaced with the same chip used in the HO200 to get the same sound quality while saving the extra $379 required for a whole new HO200 preamp. Especially since the purpose of buying an AO200 is to contain cost. I don't need a headphone amp, but would like to get the best performance from the AO200.
Yes that’s is correct but the different is HO200 use multiple OPA564+OPA1612A feedback circuit with end to end balanced design, sound improvement is not marginal for my use and set up but if you play around with AO200 EQ setting you should be able to get very good sound, thanks
@@Tharbamar Is the improvement a result of a better preamp, or because of balanced output. If it's because of balanced output, wouldn't the end to end balanced design of Topping E50 straight into balanced AO200 achieve the same sound quality without the need for a separate preamp? Thanks.
Great Question !!! And why can't you get a nice preamp only upgrade without the expense of the headphone circuit - ?? Seems like a no-brainer and easy for SMSL etc. to pull off for maybe $200-250.....max
Have you tried E50-L50-AO20?
What is the dac? Thanks!!
I was using Topping E50, thanks
hi i just new you follow . what appication you use to play music.thank
I use Audirvana, Thanks
S.m.s.l A300 amplifier Please review
Why not just use the ao200 with the topping dac? No need for the ho200 with this setup. Should get a cleaner sound just using the ao200 since it already has a preamp built in.
Most budget DAC only have digital gain control not proper Pre stage which will results in thinner sound.
@@Tharbamar I just mean the AO200 itself has a preamp built in, it's like an integrated amp so no need for another preamp after the dac or in front of the AO200.
@@brydon10 it doesn’t have proper balanced pre amp, just digital gain control.
@@Tharbamar I'm not so sure that's the case. The NJW1194 volume chip does an amazing job. It works the same as any other integrated amp with a digital volume control.
Nice but bad music selectiin for representation
Thanks, can’t make everyone happy.
@@Tharbamar I think your recordings and music recommendations are great
Olá.AO200 ,DA9 or loxjie a30 ,Who is better?.thank you.
AO200
@@Tharbamar one more question pleese.Smsl da9 play solo or want a dac .sorry my english.obrigDo.
You can use DA-9 alone, DAC is optional, thanks
What dac are you using?
Nevermind, you showed later
Can ao200 fully power elac ub5
Yes it will be fine up to 95db range.
Have you EVER heard a top quality pre amp?
Recent years I had Parasound P5, JC 2 and PS Audio Gain Cell and some old Pre amps from Esoteric and Accuphase in late 90s.
EDIT, also had Denon PRA2000 as well.
Tin can echo chamber. Brutal…
Ok record your room while your system playing from 10ft away and upload it RUclips to see if that sound better, otherwise your judgement is not credible.
@@Tharbamar That is illogical. Your methodology is flawed. It is an objective fact. Just listen to it. You’re saying I should follow your flawed methodology and if I don’t get better results I have no credibility. I don’t expect different results using the same flawed methodology. That is illogical. Your recordings sound like a tin can echo chamber. That is just a fact. Do what u want with the constructive criticism… but I suggest u should not take it personally. I am certainly not questioning your credibility. However if u deny that the recording sounds tin can-ish I would question your hearing. It sounds brutal… I don’t doubt it is hard to record the sound with accuracy without distortion.
How do you listen? Otherwise no discussion here.
@@Tharbamar Sony ref mdr7506 and Sony wh-1000xm4
Ηi pal . If you played some electric blues or classic rock tracks i 'd appreciate a lot, in order to get a larger picture of this setup.[ sorry ,but on your video there is not ''real world '' music ]
Can’t make everyone happy, define real world music. Probably you meant to say the music that you like.
Please remember I cannot play any music I like on RUclips due to copyright issues.
@@Tharbamar O.K my friend .I mentioned above, what kind of music i mean .Music including just vocals and piano can not show the real potential of the audio gear .
Piano, vocals, acoustics and micro detail of live recording is one of the best way shows quality of amplifiers to hear how accurate or natural they can be but to each of own, it’s the easiest way determining the true sound quality of amplifiers.
Anyone selling an ho200 would like to try it out
👍🇵🇱🇵🇱👍😉😎😀
Totally nonsence to connect a preamplifier to a 50 KOhm input of an fully amplifier!! You can connect the DAC directly to the 50 KOhm input of the amplifier!!
None sense for people like you.
@@Tharbamar Yes, I am an electronics engineer. I build amplifiers. And this amplifier has an own preamp build in with a 50 KOhm input and volume knob.
@@professorx6379 would you Let me try your amplifier.
@@Tharbamar Amplifier? I have build 20 amplifiers from DIY modules. Such as Accuphase E 450 or the new chips sk18752. But there is not much diffrence in the sound - but the speakers must all be adjusted with an equalizer!! Because all speakers have a huge diffrent sound.