*Thank you for watching! This one is quite long so please feel free to utilize the time stamps on the video or in the description/pinned comment here to skip to parts you are interested in* AGD Audion MKIII: agdproduction.com/product/audion/ref/NBTStudio/ GaNTube MKIII: agdproduction.com/product/audionagdproduction.com/product/agd-gantube88kt-mkiii/ref/NBTStudio/ Other AGD Products: agdproduction.com/shop/ref/NBTStudio/ Support on Patreon: www.patreon.com/jayiyagi follow on Instagram: instagram.com/jays_iyagi/ follow on Facebook: facebook.com/jayiyagiofficial Follow soundstage take 2 reviews: ruclips.net/p/PLPOzvlhtSqn5xdc__ftuSt4Rxy_wm5Af0 Speaker stands: amzn.to/3ssRhI3 Better speaker stands: solidsteel.it/my-product/ss-7-vintage-hi-fi-speaker-stands/ acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/ acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM BDI Cabinet I use: bit.ly/2OJRwQQ amzn.to/3chBuFZ other BDI Cabinets: bit.ly/3ctxXV1 amzn.to/30bsUCH my fav hifi tweaks: (Isoacoustics devices) amzn.to/3j5FGvM 0:00 Best HiFi Amplifier 2023/Best of All Time 1:38 How I Found AGD Amplifiers 6:22 Why is this the BEST Amplifier? 14:25 Best Amplifier For Audiophile Speakers? 20:25 AGD Audion MKIII Sound Review! #hifi #homeaudio #audiophile
Interesting presentation. What is the noise floor like with this amp? Could you use it with speakers over 95db efficiency without any hash in the background?
We met Alberto and discovered AGD at the February 2020 Florida Audio Show in Tampa. SO GLAD we bought the Vivace monoblocks and the Ocean Way Eureka monitors. This amazign set was very well used during Covid and still very much used today. Just yesterday, a neighbor was talking to me about some Klipsch gear they just bought for a new home they're building and the new music room he's setting up. I invited him to my place to see my gear & listen to music. He asked me to play Dire Straits Money for Nothing... after a few minutes, he turns to me and says he bought crap compared to the amazing sound the Vivace & Eurekas were delivering. Hope he reaches out to AGD. I encourage all reading my post, get to a show and listen for yourself...hopefully you'll be as amazed as jay, myself and the other devoted AGD consumers.
I very much agree with you, Jay. I have had a pair of the AGD Vivace monoblocks for a couple of years. Now that you have heard the AGD sound. Imagine hooking them up to HEAVILY modded DUEVEL Jupiter Omni-Direction Horn Speakers. They were Stereophile Class A Rec Speakers in their day. Now greatly modded to add highend extension, and lower any distortion or coloring. The walls completely disappear. And transport you to inside the performance venue. A ridiculously emotional combination within that 3D experience. Welcome to the club... Oh, and yes I got my pair from OCD Mikey.
FINALLY, FINALLY, FINALLY! I have been asking for weeks when you'd get to the AGD!!! thank God you have because its aWeSomE!!!! I had a feeling it was going to wow you because all my other favorite reviewers have been impressed beyond impressed by the sound and the cost to value of this set. And also hearing the story behind the brand is amazing too...now I just need to scrape up $7k to get them, but I will.
@@bertroost1675Why? Because misery loves company? He’s excited. Good for him. You’re jaded. Bad for you. No reason to rain in his parade though. Go fix your own problems pal. And let the rest of us enjoy this beautiful world we live in. Any time you feel like joining in on the fun. We’ll still be here. But until then….✌️
To the OP. I love your enthusiasm. And I sincerely hope you get a pair. Maybe try to get a used pair of older ones on Audiogon/USAM. And then you can upgrade later, as funds allow. I’m tempted to do this myself actually. These are exactly what many of us have been waiting for.✌️
I've been listening to you for some time now..I have never heard you soooo excited about anything.. The AGD must be particularly special...I now have to rethink my approach to hifi!. Thank you for this very special review...
@@JohnLee-db9ztSo in your logic anyone selling or promoting something is shilling? OCD HifiGuy is one of the rare few that is a reviewer and retailer. He doesn’t hide that he owns his own audio company. A shill is someone who is not upfront or indirect of who they are, their motivations, that they are selling someone something.
The trick is not the fake tube, it's GaN tech done right. I have a LSA Voyager GaN 350 DUAL MONO! MSRP $~ 3000 that I have owned for 2+ years. Kicks ass, and EVS/Tweak Audio has mods to make it even better. I have sen a few come up for sale at silly good prices then send to EVS for mods
I saw this video when it first posted but forgot the name AGD and confused the amp with Galion and don't ask me how I could confuse the two but I did. I live in L.A. and know AGD are made there. Today is Saturday, guess where I'm going on Monday. I have to get me a pair. I like Jay and respect his opinion, so we'll see what happens.
Jay, I’ve been watching these RUclips hifi videos for a few years now and many times I’ve almost purchased a particular amp, speaker, or streamer, but always waited to see more. I’ve always been focused on a tube amp, but now I’m definitely focused on those AGD monoblocks. I’ve also been focused on the klipsch speakers for the efficiency since I was focused on tube amplifiers. Anyways the streamers continue to improve and I think I’m going to be fortunate to get a super nice streamer when I purchase these items. Jay, we have some things in common since my mother is Korean and I truly enjoy watching your RUclips videos, so thank you very much for all your efforts along with how well you articulate your love for MUSIC!
I recently purchased old Lyngdorf SDA-2175 class D amplifier and it absolutely amazed me! Fantastic mellow sound with strong presence and lots of power.
glad you had the opportunity hear them. They are always on my short list of stops at every show. Love AGD. Its good to know you haven't heard it all and surprises are literally one small room away! Thanks Jay.
Hi Jay Thanks and No Thanks. Just as I was able to wean myself away from considering any further HiFi gear, you then dragged me right back in 😅 Thanks for a great detailed video, I am now interested
Great review. Funny how OCD Mike discovers and promotes brands multiple years before the mainstream picks them up and by that time has moved on to other undiscovered brands. I picked up my AGD amp 2 years ago.
Hello Jay I own the Audions mkII they are the : "BEST" amps I have ever had pairing with my Soundlabs period ! I have found that the Audions are so revealing and transparent it's shocking no exaggeration. Now I have found "not directly plugging " into the wall the Audions without a better power cord and a "isolation transformer" has elevated my system to the best it has ever sounded. Try a better power cord and plug the Audions into the isolation transformers separately!
I’ve been into stereo and listening to tunes for almost 60 years and I might be able to I have personal interaction on a decent basis of maybe 5% of your experience, so that is VERY impressive. That said I have a buddy who I think is one of the most knowledgeable Altec guys has put his 45 tube amp aside and listens now to Class D amp by a former tube manufacturer, so it seems reasonable that you’ve had this experience
Alberto said he bought out the last supply of the unique transistors that he uses in his amplifiers. So when he runs out of these transistors then what? What would a new generation of amplifiers sound like. How can you repair a broke anplifier if he has no more of these transistors. You should call Alberto and ask him about this. Talk to OCD Mikey also.
Someone mention my name ? Lol. Alberto has enough parts to make 500 pairs of monoblocks, and he has 3 different transistor types he uses... ;-) to answer directly, he could simply swap your tube for a new one. Don't worry about it not being as good, he's the designer !! ;-) 😊
Wow, to hear Jay gush like that means that he really liked those. And I agree, on paper, they shouldn't be as good as claimed. Its nice to live in a age where we could have such leaps in technology.
Im freaking out here. My first ever set of monoblock amplifiers, a set of AGD Audion Class D Special Edition polished MK3 amps have been ordered. No clue how I’m going to transition my 5.1 channel Denon AVR 4806 based HT system into a combo set up, but it should be fun and I’m hoping for a big bump in the 2 channel performance. Single largest investment I’ve ever made in my HiFi system/journey. Aaaaaaaah! Lol
These amps with the little ocean way bookshelves were one of my top five rooms at Axpona. Sounded freaking fantastic even in a crappy little hotel room! Just missed a pair of local used ones going for a good price. Kicking myself hard! Nice work Jay
Its wild, I have tried many amplifiers, and its amazing how often I come back to a Tripath. A nice preamplifier improves it also, Using a Quad qc22 at the moment and I just get lost in the music so quickly.... Tannoy t165 is my go to speaker in this setup...
Gallium Nitride switching transistors are flooring silicon ='s of other Class D amps imo. It's GaN for me, when I go class D, what greatness my ears would behold, with a pair of these, or three. (For a spare & ryming purposes)
My personal opinion is that not all amps/speakers match. So many variations to consider with things like db sensitivity and design of the speaker/drivers. I’d still like to hear them! Edit: of course you addressed this topic. And you are far more knowledgeable than I. So, I take your word for it.
I find it best to watch the whole vid. twice, or very closely if you're seriously thinking of buying the review product because we can miss important snippets of info on 1'st view and hearing these in situ at home, I bet you'll want to keep them. I've no chance of that in the U.K. but if I was loaded, after hearing some very knowledgeable folk praise these amps very highly like here, in fact all GaN tech' amps so far in reviews when verses the previously standard Silicon trsnsistored Class D amps, I'd buy these amps blind, rather deaf & pay the shipping if I was loaded enough, & asap. I've seen this vid b4 but now i'm seriously on the verge of buying a cheaper Class D GaN amp, the only similarity to these will be it having the same GaN transistor technology as these, & wanted to hear again about what may be the ultimate expression of GaN Class D amps. As they seem to be wiping the floor when compared to the same priced & higher.. (2 or 3 review guys claimed, like the non-GaN Jeff Rowland giants, allegedly) ....same priced Silicon equivalent Class D amps & maybe floor all tech' of amp, A, AB, H (Carver?) or whatever tech', with this particular GaN amp. If there was a market for little pinkies, I'd seriously think about cutting my little finger off, to own them, R.hand or my guitar chording will suffer, but i could strum & pick with a plectrum glued to my right arm's stump, for a $5'million system. Good luck dude
One of the best amp of all the time was the Yamaha M2, and it's bro M4, since it had the punch and all what we enjoy from tube amps, without any audible distorsion.
I bet that's the Yammy I heard many years ago for a week or so. Black & large with 2 lines (or slight slopes?) of red LED's showing output from 0.1'watts, or less(?) & logrithmicallly, all the way to max output, so you always saw them move. If that's the same as I recall, it had a very high damping factors of 1000, v.good for it's day. it controlled woofers & ribbon or e/stat's bass panels very well compared to some, i'd had a s/h one on loan, for my then fave' s/h Quad ELS 57's but ended up preferring a cheaper Radford STA 25 from the same new & s/h dealer, it bettered the Quad II's mono's designed for them. Horses for courses. I may be wrong but M1 or M2 rings a big bell, top of the line then, I thought & cool to look at
Similar hype & excitement were heard from every reviewer when Devialet came out with their amps. The next best thing in audio and so on. Devialet is not bad, I owned 2 different models including the 440 Pro Dual. But went back to old school McIntosh MC1.25KW and C1100 and couldn't be happier! Whatever floats your boat people, hype doesn't last long that’s reality!
yes I remember as the store I used to work at carried it. It sounded great but much like you, I preferred other stuff like the McIntosh that we also carried
@Jayiyagi Yes Jay I know, as I bought a lot of stuff from them including my MSB DAC. I love your reviews, so my comments were general & not directed at you. As I am getting older, I have stopped running after the next best thing, that's all, cheers bud.
It is a very good example, Devialet is OK....but I don't think it is really top 3 amps in terms of its price category. So I have to wait more time to see if its really capable to handle challenging speakers.
Comparing this to Devialet is misguided. While they have some amazing digital tech - their amp tech is the weakest point by far. Try using your tube preamp in front of a pair of AGD amps. You might just get tired of having to get a friend involved every time you want to move your MC1.25KW. This amp company is not just a next best thing or flavor of the month type deal. Will likely win over as many tube amp fans and it will solid state. And I find it hard to believe someone who went from Devialet to your current tube/SS rig is really done chasing better sound
I'm more into honeydew melons. The texture and taste has that perfect smooth balance. And it taste so much better in the hammock with a bug net, to stop all outside interference.
Thanks Jay for the video ' I'm about to drop my favorite amp of all time very Soon Work has been crazy '' but the amp ain't New Age ! And it's known to be very very reliable And it stole the Frankinfeast audio show! Robust n detailed Insane drive power even at low volume bass is insane ' Those AGD do look nice ' wish they'd bring back Vfets and To3a output devices
I am looking at the AGD Duets. I suspect they would be very similar to the Audions and the Vivace. I have a Hegal H190 now, so a Hegel comparison is appreciated. I have B&W 705-S3 speakers. Is an upgrade to the AGD worth it? Is the sound that much different than the Hegel? I am torn. These things are mega $$$, so I don’t want to purchase till I am sure. Even though B&W speakers are more ubiquitous, it’s still difficult to find say some 800 level speakers to compare in person. The AGDs are even more rare, so in person listening to them is even more difficult. Hegel or AGD… Help! -Thanks.
I was a beta tester for PS Audio Stellar Gold Da and Pre, trading my BHK Pre in on these, also compared Gold to MKII keeping the Gold. The Pre is awesome I might loose a little spaciousness but the detail and soundstage is better
Thanks for the review but the lack on comments regarding the preamps used was curious. Would you recommend tube preamp? Can you use an inexpensive solid state? 30:56
I used many different pre amps but audio note m2 and denafrips athena was what I mainly used. Athena being my favourite for the AGD. Looking to try AGD's own pre now
Heard the JansZen Nine.Five speakers powered by these amps at Axpona. My friend and I spent the majority of or drive home debating if it was the speakers or the amps. Defiantly one of if not the best sounding systems we heard.
Have gotten a taste of GaN implementation with my GoldNote amp (Gallium Nitride MOSFETs for the output). LOVE it..but...AGD....Sigh.......almost 20k. But I want. Thanks a lot. You've hooked me!
😂 I’ve gone through 3 amplifiers in 43 years lmfao . That’s y I listen to your advice I guess . Hope to c u in Florida next show . Another greeaatt video . My next system I’m going to start on in 24 or 25 will b a Decware unit
yes it was long but helpfull and I enjoyed it as your enthusiasm seems to be quite honest. I believe hifi is about bang (based on personal preferencies) for bug and it seems like very good candidate. Thank you for the review.
Hey Jay, what pre-amp did you use for these. I'm not sure if you mentioned that. I'm interested in buying these, I'm just not a fan of their preamps. Any suggestions? Thanks!
I was at a showroom and saw the AGD amp, neveer dig into it and missed the chance to listen to them, what a drag... Thanks for your introduction, I will investigate in it. BTW, I also wanting to hear the SPEC from Japan which was on my radar but hard to find a dealer.
Nice review Jay! Sounds really intriguing, just with they had an integrated version. So I also really like the music samples you provided and the sound quality of them. Can you give us your playlist? Were the samples recorded from your system?
Jay, you're the best. I was listening to this video while working and I plan on listening again or even more because the information seems important. I love tubes and kept thinking...looks tubes and Jay say's its actually not tubes. Hence the rewatching I will need to understand it all. The equipment is simply gorgeous to look at i really love this hobby so much and constantly amazed at the gear that comes around. Thank goodness im not on the marry go round to purchase like Ive heard about. Thanks take care
Fo those who dont want to spend $8000 for a channel, AGD has the Tempp di gan for $5500 for a stereo amp. Did you review the other AGD amps ? Thank you.
Dear friend, as a formal electronic engineer, audio hobbyist, there are some things I want to tell you. First of all, the designer will always tell you that his equipment is special and that gallium is better than silicon, the ones that switch faster and everything. Then the first thing you hear is the room, it is the one that generates the most distortion, then the speakers, and you will probably never hear the amplifier. An amplifier is measured on a lab test bench. An audio chain is composed of the source, amplifier, speakers, room, ear. and the weak points are always the speakers and the room, they are what add more color to the music. Try to talk to professionals who don't sell snake oil. always.
Thank you for your comment. As an individual with an electrical engineering degree but haven't practiced in the field as much, your comment is well appreciated and respected however I disagree with the notion that you will not hear the amplifier. And many engineers in the audio industry I have talked to and learnt from have never said such things. As an electrical engineer, you should be able to know that GaN isn't snake oil and is indeed better performing (atleast on paper) than silicon
Well said I agree It’s just a class d amp in a tube bottom line. I’ve had 30 valve amps and my dad designed the schematics himself and used bva British valves. I’m very fortunate knowing dad was a radioham in the Uk. I was the lucky son who had hand made valve amps. Never spent a penny. I had ultra linear push pull single ended etc. I personally think from experience hand made and designed is best. Most new tube amps are on pcb mine were all point to point wired. Really easy to change valves too.
Not true. Last year I sold my amplifier and bought a new one. Streamer and speakers are the same, listeners are the same, and to the best of my knowledge the room hasn’t changed a bit. Well, it sounds completely different. And each amplifier I tested in this room with the same setup had a distinct sound.
Incorrect. Very. The amplifier makes a huge difference. I hear it every day when I change my amplifier around. And my room happens to be very problematic.
I heard these at two shows this year, and they did sound universally awesome. I have the Atma-Sphere Class D and they sound similar. Though, the reference AGD might have the edge, would have to hear them together.
No, I don't think that is accurate. Ralf of Atma-Sphere has spoken extensively about developing his circuit from scratch over 5 years. I would like to hear the AGDs at home sometime though!
1. How much do the Audions heat up? My tube amplifier here is like an oven. 2. Do I need 2 of them, for bi-wiring? What's the difference if I have 1 or 2 of them - I never understood bi-wiring, is it just for more power, or more sound qualities, or both? 3. You said that this amplifier for sure won't sound good with all speakers. Does that mean the amp won't be worth the money for some speakers, or it will sound very good and worth it for all speakers and exceptionally great for most? Great review as always though, I love how you give examples and do a lot of comparisons!
Hello, well it heats up very little, for 2 reasons, it is a Class-D and uses GaN Mosfets and not silicon Mosfets. Then yes, for wiring you need 2+2 power amps, for each section of the speakers, time the number of speakers. The rest is a matter of trying the amp with the speaker you wish to try and landing on a personal conclusion. I am sure Jay has tested numerous speakers, but ultimately not all speakers available in the market and produced since the beginning of HiFi.
@@Albert-nj9xm Ah, I just read on their website that they say this is a monoblock type amplifier. So their price is per pair (2 monoblocks, like Jay has in the video), which means I have nothing to worry about. I just never used a monoblock, so I got confused why there are 2 amplifiers in the video.
I just auditioned the Luxman CL-38uC and CL-88uC, a preamp and amp. It was in my home with my Quad ESL-63 electrostatic speakers and I fell almost instantly in love. They are expensive for me so I urgently need a professional opinion. Have you heard these? Could you review them?
Geez people are ruthless in their comments on RUclips I appreciate your concise and descriptive comments, listening to clips online are near useless anyway. One question Jay, were you using your Audio Note pre during your time with the AGDs? Thanks.
Jay you have been biased about class D AMP until you heard this AGD likewise until I heard leema elements class D Amp from Leema Acoustics which is just 56watts @ 8 ohms. Class D if well implemented (expensive) can sound as good as an AB or even better.
Jays thanks for the information! I’m glad to heard about new brands and new technology at least out of the regular brands, it’s fresh. My question, what preamp do you use with this amps?
I used many different pre amps but audio note m2 and denafrips athena was what I mainly used. Athena being my favourite for the AGD. Looking to try AGD's own pre now
I haven't listend to the Peachtree or the AGD. The thing that distinguishes the agd is it was designed form the ground up as a musical playback device. All others that I'm aware of were adaptations of a existing GAN device designed for other applications. The AGD has the mark of a true head to trail design and apparently it's really really nice sounding product.
Hi jay i am big fan of your chanel, youre riviews are to honest, i saw your opinion on the comparation of the bhk preamp and the mcintosh 70th aniversary, when discribeb your preference, for the bhk preamp i buy the bhk preamp for my legacy focuse se and sound great, now i saw your review of the AGD audions mono i whant to buy them , or the duets , you think the bhk pre and AGD monos is good match for my legacy focuse se, ? If dont bather you i like to now your opinion becuase the legacy have great bass, and class d amp are streong on bass. My concern is not to overkill and lees sound detail on the mids and highs, thanks. Alfredo
Love the review Jay! I have so many Amps already - now I’m seriously considering selling them to get these instead.. 🙈I need to find a way to audition them first though. Can you please add some info on what pre-amps will work well with them?
Curious about the difference between Denafrips Thallo amp and the AGD's...I bought the Thallo on your review, love them with my Musical Paradise 701 MkII preamp and Gustard R26 DAC.
I heard these GaN amps compared with a beefy pair of Audio Research Mono's, I s/state revered amp (4get) & a seriously expensive looking pair of S.E. triode amps. From digi out into my Arcam surround with it's Zone 2 speaker outs playing into my main stereo pair. In comparison only (of course) they absolutely flawed the other amps on every conceivable parameter of sound quality. I can only aspire to owning a pair but GaN is where it's at, man. Especially these charmers of the ear
I’ve been seeing these Amps on your videos for a while now…why so long to review?? And I would love it if in future videos you share which other equipment you use when reviewing just amplifiers, not Integrated. And yes the video was long mostly because of “redundancy”. For me, the Brunoco, Integrated for $3500…which you gave tremendous praise to, is a better value by far. I went back and listened to your review of the Brunoco and your descriptions of it were very similar. Is the connected power cord third party or is it the one included with the unit?? Are the speaker cables the same as the ones at the show??
Jay, it would be enlightening to hear your opinion of the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Ultra GaN-based amp that you also heard at the Florida show. Many thanks.
From your comments so far on different gears, I understood that you like tube sound, mid range with meat but also with details, I can guess how AGD sound like, may be similar to a good tube preamplifier + Purifi module amp. The out look design of AGD seems like to tell us it is tube sound class D amplifier.
Hey Jay, I saw the big Revival Audio Atalante 5 Monitors in this video. Today I was for a visit in france at the factory of Revival Audio. Please tell me your Impression and if you like the speakers. 👍🌹👍
I am interested in the RF Certaldo Series 2 speakers. Would you have info on where to see, listen to, and purchase a pair? I live in the US. I am building a new system. I watch and enjoy your channel. I have learned what and how to listen to hifi equipment and what I like. Your description of this pairing interests me. This will probably be my endgame system. Your help would be greatly appreciated.
Intrigued, I would love to audition one. $7,850 - $ 8,600 for the Audion amp and another $ 4,999 + Tax for the Alto preamp. This bit of kit, I do see as something that would be out of reach for most consumers.
And as far as the NAT… a new truck chromed out and bump in it… and never be happier to listen to marantz receiver for the 90’s with some Fisher 10’s bumping at home when I wasn’t in my new truck or car. Bet!
@@MikeHensley-sc3nsWhere can you even get a new car for that? Not in the USA. That’s for sure. And those 12’s aren’t going to install themselves either. IME your money is much better spent on home audio. You’ll get better SQ at home for a couple, or three grand. Than you’ll ever get in your car. And yes I’ve heard many high end car systems. In fact the guys at the meets would sometimes say not to get into home audio, because it will ruin car audio for you. And you’ll never want to go back. And that’s exactly what happened to me actually. ✌️
Great amp but in general class D and tube amplifiers are a no go with the Dynaudio Heritage Specials are they? Did you had the oppurtunity to try this?
Jay thank you for the excellent review. I have watched nearly all of your videos and it is clear that you are so very impressed with his is amplifiers performance. I may have missed it in the video, but can you comment what preamplifier type in pairing you enjoyed the most with these monoblocks?
In a reply to @roberleiton, Jay said ‘I used many different pre amps but audio note m2 and denafrips athena was what I mainly used. Athena being my favourite for the AGD. Looking to try AGD's own pre now’
Hi Jay, enjoying your reviews, you are e real pro! want to ask what do you think of their combination with the Greshman Avantgarde thanks in advance Best regards Ran
Have you ever had the pleasure of hearing the electroresearch A-75 amp by John Iverson? I was at his lab in the early seventies and have never heard anything better. I also heard his radio based plasma speakers.
Lets reframe best amplifier to "best of all time" sounding or most musical: a well regarded audiophile CEO told me years ago that his favorite (fastest most musical) amplifier was the Pilot 232 EL 84 amplifier which, for years, has been at the center of the Hong Kong Audio club's favorite systems. Of course, there is no best amplifier - what matters is the amplifier speaker combination which is the way systems compete in Hong Kong. Curious to know if the Hong Kong audio club did a listening comparison between the Pilot 232 and AGD?The pilot 232 is a simple push pull amplifier which 1) distorts harmonically and 2) is very very fast on transients, while also adds decay and "hall sound" to notes as is the characteristic of the el84 tube...the end result being the recorded playback sounds more like the live concert than the recording and more live than if played back on a more "accurate" amplifier.
Hi Jay, o er the years you have gotten very good at reviewing. I presently own PS Audio Class D M700 monoblocks and the Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Pre. And my speakers are Danny’s NX Studios. Have you heard the PS Audio Class D gear? I feel like I am missing something sonically. Your thoughts on PS audio gear? Should I be looking to change? Your thoughts and recommendations? Thank you!
I have experience with both...The store I used to work at used to carry PS audio M700s and I went to Texas and had good listening sessions with the NX studios. However I didn't hear the NX studios with the M700s. So take my educated "guess" here with a grain of salt... I think your NX studios will love the AGD Audions far more... Audition one if you can
Did OCD Mikey pay you for this video? He’s been preaching AGD and NAT for years and is a dealer of both. So you’ve validated Mikey’s opinion, which is really nice to hear.
Yep, I was trying to figure out who was going on about this amplifier, and then I remembered that eccentric (nut) who has all those amazing tube amps videos. Mikey. He did talk about what was in that tube that made it so revolutionary. It's interesting to see that their may be validation with other audio reviewers. So Mikey, I apologize for calling you an eccentric(nut). Perhaps it's your wild, wide eye, frumpy style that doubted you.
Thank you for your insight on this brand amplifier. Strange thing though, with the asking prices for these amps, i'm surprised at the terrible quality photos on the website, LOL.
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*Thank you for watching! This one is quite long so please feel free to utilize the time stamps on the video or in the description/pinned comment here to skip to parts you are interested in*
AGD Audion MKIII: agdproduction.com/product/audion/ref/NBTStudio/
GaNTube MKIII: agdproduction.com/product/audionagdproduction.com/product/agd-gantube88kt-mkiii/ref/NBTStudio/
Other AGD Products: agdproduction.com/shop/ref/NBTStudio/
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Better speaker stands: solidsteel.it/my-product/ss-7-vintage-hi-fi-speaker-stands/
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0:00 Best HiFi Amplifier 2023/Best of All Time
1:38 How I Found AGD Amplifiers
6:22 Why is this the BEST Amplifier?
14:25 Best Amplifier For Audiophile Speakers?
20:25 AGD Audion MKIII Sound Review!
#hifi #homeaudio #audiophile
Interesting presentation. What is the noise floor like with this amp? Could you use it with speakers over 95db efficiency without any hash in the background?
@@mfr58yes. Noise floor is very low
@@Jayiyagi Good news! Thanks Jay.
What were the top 20 albums you have purchased so far in 2023?
@@DBTAudio my answer is most likely but message AGD to confirm
We met Alberto and discovered AGD at the February 2020 Florida Audio Show in Tampa. SO GLAD we bought the Vivace monoblocks and the Ocean Way Eureka monitors. This amazign set was very well used during Covid and still very much used today. Just yesterday, a neighbor was talking to me about some Klipsch gear they just bought for a new home they're building and the new music room he's setting up. I invited him to my place to see my gear & listen to music. He asked me to play Dire Straits Money for Nothing... after a few minutes, he turns to me and says he bought crap compared to the amazing sound the Vivace & Eurekas were delivering. Hope he reaches out to AGD. I encourage all reading my post, get to a show and listen for yourself...hopefully you'll be as amazed as jay, myself and the other devoted AGD consumers.
I very much agree with you, Jay. I have had a pair of the AGD Vivace monoblocks for a couple of years. Now that you have heard the AGD sound. Imagine hooking them up to HEAVILY modded DUEVEL Jupiter Omni-Direction Horn Speakers. They were Stereophile Class A Rec Speakers in their day. Now greatly modded to add highend extension, and lower any distortion or coloring. The walls completely disappear. And transport you to inside the performance venue. A ridiculously emotional combination within that 3D experience. Welcome to the club... Oh, and yes I got my pair from OCD Mikey.
FINALLY, FINALLY, FINALLY! I have been asking for weeks when you'd get to the AGD!!! thank God you have because its aWeSomE!!!! I had a feeling it was going to wow you because all my other favorite reviewers have been impressed beyond impressed by the sound and the cost to value of this set. And also hearing the story behind the brand is amazing too...now I just need to scrape up $7k to get them, but I will.
Relax buddy.
@@bertroost1675 ^^^^^lol!
@@bertroost1675Why? Because misery loves company? He’s excited. Good for him. You’re jaded. Bad for you. No reason to rain in his parade though. Go fix your own problems pal. And let the rest of us enjoy this beautiful world we live in. Any time you feel like joining in on the fun. We’ll still be here. But until then….✌️
To the OP. I love your enthusiasm. And I sincerely hope you get a pair. Maybe try to get a used pair of older ones on Audiogon/USAM. And then you can upgrade later, as funds allow. I’m tempted to do this myself actually. These are exactly what many of us have been waiting for.✌️
I've been listening to you for some time now..I have never heard you soooo excited about anything..
The AGD must be particularly special...I now have to rethink my approach to hifi!.
Thank you for this very special review...
Hey Jay, looks like we share opinions on NAT and AGD. Glad you got to hear them. It's why I sell them ! ;-) Cheers !
Dude don’t be a shill.
I thought they looked familar, did you review these before OCD Mikey?
There are others and less expensive
@@JohnLee-db9ztSo in your logic anyone selling or promoting something is shilling? OCD HifiGuy is one of the rare few that is a reviewer and retailer. He doesn’t hide that he owns his own audio company.
A shill is someone who is not upfront or indirect of who they are, their motivations, that they are selling someone something.
I was gonna say OCDMikey is where I heard these. Mikey likes it!
The trick is not the fake tube, it's GaN tech done right. I have a LSA Voyager GaN 350 DUAL MONO! MSRP $~ 3000 that I have owned for 2+ years. Kicks ass, and EVS/Tweak Audio has mods to make it even better. I have sen a few come up for sale at silly good prices then send to EVS for mods
I saw this video when it first posted but forgot the name AGD and confused the amp with Galion and don't ask me how I could confuse the two but I did. I live in L.A. and know AGD are made there. Today is Saturday, guess where I'm going on Monday. I have to get me a pair. I like Jay and respect his opinion, so we'll see what happens.
I’m blown away by how effusive you are bout this amp. I can’t believe it.
Jay, I’ve been watching these RUclips hifi videos for a few years now and many times I’ve almost purchased a particular amp, speaker, or streamer, but always waited to see more. I’ve always been focused on a tube amp, but now I’m definitely focused on those AGD monoblocks. I’ve also been focused on the klipsch speakers for the efficiency since I was focused on tube amplifiers. Anyways the streamers continue to improve and I think I’m going to be fortunate to get a super nice streamer when I purchase these items. Jay, we have some things in common since my mother is Korean and I truly enjoy watching your RUclips videos, so thank you very much for all your efforts along with how well you articulate your love for MUSIC!
I recently purchased old Lyngdorf SDA-2175 class D amplifier and it absolutely amazed me! Fantastic mellow sound with strong presence and lots of power.
I have found the Lyngdorf equipment is consistently excellent.
glad you had the opportunity hear them. They are always on my short list of stops at every show. Love AGD. Its good to know you haven't heard it all and surprises are literally one small room away! Thanks Jay.
Hi Jay
Thanks and No Thanks. Just as I was able to wean myself away from considering any further HiFi gear, you then dragged me right back in 😅
Thanks for a great detailed video, I am now interested
Great review. Funny how OCD Mike discovers and promotes brands multiple years before the mainstream picks them up and by that time has moved on to other undiscovered brands. I picked up my AGD amp 2 years ago.
Same here, I have had my Audions for a couple of years, got them from Mike, only wish I had a second pair.
What speakers are you guys pairing with the AGD amps?
Hello Jay
I own the Audions mkII they are the : "BEST" amps I have ever had pairing with my Soundlabs period !
I have found that the Audions are so revealing and transparent it's shocking no exaggeration. Now I have found "not directly plugging " into the wall the Audions without a better power cord and a "isolation transformer" has elevated my system to the best it has ever sounded. Try a better power cord and plug the Audions into the isolation transformers separately!
Greetings from Europe.
My actuel setting :
The Apps you enthusiastically talk about AGD
Preamp Klyne 7
Loudspeakers : Audiostatic ES 900
I’ve been into stereo and listening to tunes for almost 60 years and I might be able to I have personal interaction on a decent basis of maybe 5% of your experience, so that is VERY impressive. That said I have a buddy who I think is one of the most knowledgeable Altec guys has put his 45 tube amp aside and listens now to Class D amp by a former tube manufacturer, so it seems reasonable that you’ve had this experience
About 2 . 5 per month for 10 years .
Assuming he's 25 ish. That is a lot.
Alberto said he bought out the
last supply of the unique transistors that he uses in his
amplifiers. So when he runs
out of these transistors then
what? What would a new
generation of amplifiers sound
like. How can you repair a
broke anplifier if he has no more
of these transistors. You
should call Alberto and ask him about this. Talk to OCD
Mikey also.
Someone mention my name ? Lol. Alberto has enough parts to make 500 pairs of monoblocks, and he has 3 different transistor types he uses... ;-) to answer directly, he could simply swap your tube for a new one. Don't worry about it not being as good, he's the designer !! ;-) 😊
Thank you Mike! Actually a bit more than that...much more 😊
Wow, to hear Jay gush like that means that he really liked those. And I agree, on paper, they shouldn't be as good as claimed. Its nice to live in a age where we could have such leaps in technology.
Also i have the dual mono version of this amp. It is better than the single ps version, sold my PS M1200 monos when i compared them
How did the Audion sound compared to the PS M1200s? I own the M1200s and am thinking of making a change..
Same experience I have in Raleigh NC at Audio Advice Live, last month. Good people, very engaged in their craft and presentation was top notch.
Im freaking out here. My first ever set of monoblock amplifiers, a set of AGD Audion Class D Special Edition polished MK3 amps have been ordered. No clue how I’m going to transition my 5.1 channel Denon AVR 4806 based HT system into a combo set up, but it should be fun and I’m hoping for a big bump in the 2 channel performance. Single largest investment I’ve ever made in my HiFi system/journey. Aaaaaaaah! Lol
Sounds like I found my new amps for my Martin Logan Montis. Many thanks. Was looking at Krell and Pass XA's.
Please let us know how you like this pairing. Especially the dynamics. Thanks!!😊
These amps with the little ocean way bookshelves were one of my top five rooms at Axpona. Sounded freaking fantastic even in a crappy little hotel room!
Just missed a pair of local used ones going for a good price. Kicking myself hard!
Nice work Jay
Its wild, I have tried many amplifiers, and its amazing how often I come back to a Tripath. A nice preamplifier improves it also, Using a Quad qc22 at the moment and I just get lost in the music so quickly.... Tannoy t165 is my go to speaker in this setup...
Gallium Nitride switching transistors are flooring silicon ='s of other Class D amps imo.
It's GaN for me, when I go class D, what greatness my ears would behold, with a pair of these, or three.
(For a spare & ryming purposes)
My personal opinion is that not all amps/speakers match. So many variations to consider with things like db sensitivity and design of the speaker/drivers. I’d still like to hear them!
Edit: of course you addressed this topic. And you are far more knowledgeable than I. So, I take your word for it.
I find it best to watch the whole vid. twice, or very closely if you're seriously thinking of buying the review product because we can miss important snippets of info on 1'st view and hearing these in situ at home, I bet you'll want to keep them. I've no chance of that in the U.K. but if I was loaded, after hearing some very knowledgeable folk praise these amps very highly like here, in fact all GaN tech' amps so far in reviews when verses the previously standard Silicon trsnsistored Class D amps, I'd buy these amps blind, rather deaf & pay the shipping if I was loaded enough, & asap.
I've seen this vid b4 but now i'm seriously on the verge of buying a cheaper Class D GaN amp, the only similarity to these will be it having the same GaN transistor technology as these, & wanted to hear again about what may be the ultimate expression of GaN Class D amps. As they seem to be wiping the floor when compared to the same priced & higher.. (2 or 3 review guys claimed, like the non-GaN Jeff Rowland giants, allegedly) ....same priced Silicon equivalent Class D amps & maybe floor all tech' of amp, A, AB, H (Carver?) or whatever tech', with this particular GaN amp.
If there was a market for little pinkies, I'd seriously think about cutting my little finger off, to own them, R.hand or my guitar chording will suffer, but i could strum & pick with a plectrum glued to my right arm's stump, for a $5'million system.
Good luck dude
One of the best amp of all the time was the Yamaha M2, and it's bro M4, since it had the punch and all what we enjoy from tube amps, without any audible distorsion.
I bet that's the Yammy I heard many years ago for a week or so. Black & large with 2 lines (or slight slopes?) of red LED's showing output from 0.1'watts, or less(?) & logrithmicallly, all the way to max output, so you always saw them move. If that's the same as I recall, it had a very high damping factors of 1000, v.good for it's day. it controlled woofers & ribbon or e/stat's bass panels very well compared to some, i'd had a s/h one on loan, for my then fave' s/h Quad ELS 57's but ended up preferring a cheaper Radford STA 25 from the same new & s/h dealer, it bettered the Quad II's mono's designed for them. Horses for courses. I may be wrong but M1 or M2 rings a big bell, top of the line then, I thought & cool to look at
Similar hype & excitement were heard from every reviewer when Devialet came out with their amps. The next best thing in audio and so on. Devialet is not bad, I owned 2 different models including the 440 Pro Dual. But went back to old school McIntosh MC1.25KW and C1100 and couldn't be happier! Whatever floats your boat people, hype doesn't last long that’s reality!
yes I remember as the store I used to work at carried it. It sounded great but much like you, I preferred other stuff like the McIntosh that we also carried
@Jayiyagi Yes Jay I know, as I bought a lot of stuff from them including my MSB DAC. I love your reviews, so my comments were general & not directed at you. As I am getting older, I have stopped running after the next best thing, that's all, cheers bud.
It is a very good example, Devialet is OK....but I don't think it is really top 3 amps in terms of its price category. So I have to wait more time to see if its really capable to handle challenging speakers.
Comparing this to Devialet is misguided. While they have some amazing digital tech - their amp tech is the weakest point by far. Try using your tube preamp in front of a pair of AGD amps. You might just get tired of having to get a friend involved every time you want to move your MC1.25KW. This amp company is not just a next best thing or flavor of the month type deal. Will likely win over as many tube amp fans and it will solid state. And I find it hard to believe someone who went from Devialet to your current tube/SS rig is really done chasing better sound
Grape is the best fruit off the year 2023. It's my top fruit after tasting more than 300 fruits. Waiting for the next best of....
I'm more into honeydew melons. The texture and taste has that perfect smooth balance.
And it taste so much better in the hammock with a bug net, to stop all outside interference.
Glad to see that you’ve experienced what I had with AGD Audions a few years ago. One of the best amps I have ever owned. Will never part with them.
What speakers do you have paired with the Audions?
Thanks Jay for the video
' I'm about to drop my favorite amp of all time very Soon
Work has been crazy ''
but the amp ain't New Age ! And it's known to be very very reliable
And it stole the Frankinfeast audio show! Robust n detailed
Insane drive power even at low volume bass is insane '
Those AGD do look nice ' wish they'd bring back Vfets and To3a output devices
Great vid Jay. Thanks for sharing this gem. What pre-amp, dac and source did your use with the AGD for this review? Thanks.
A comparison to the Orchard Audio Starkrimson would be interesting.
I am looking at the AGD Duets. I suspect they would be very similar to the Audions and the Vivace. I have a Hegal H190 now, so a Hegel comparison is appreciated. I have B&W 705-S3 speakers. Is an upgrade to the AGD worth it? Is the sound that much different than the Hegel? I am torn. These things are mega $$$, so I don’t want to purchase till I am sure. Even though B&W speakers are more ubiquitous, it’s still difficult to find say some 800 level speakers to compare in person. The AGDs are even more rare, so in person listening to them is even more difficult. Hegel or AGD… Help! -Thanks.
I was a beta tester for PS Audio Stellar Gold Da and Pre, trading my BHK Pre in on these, also compared Gold to MKII keeping the Gold. The Pre is awesome I might loose a little spaciousness but the detail and soundstage is better
Thanks for the review but the lack on comments regarding the preamps used was curious. Would you recommend tube preamp? Can you use an inexpensive solid state? 30:56
I used many different pre amps but audio note m2 and denafrips athena was what I mainly used. Athena being my favourite for the AGD. Looking to try AGD's own pre now
Heard the JansZen Nine.Five speakers powered by these amps at Axpona. My friend and I spent the majority of or drive home debating if it was the speakers or the amps. Defiantly one of if not the best sounding systems we heard.
Have gotten a taste of GaN implementation with my GoldNote amp (Gallium Nitride MOSFETs for the output). LOVE it..but...AGD....Sigh.......almost 20k. But I want. Thanks a lot. You've hooked me!
Agree Jay....The Audions are MUSICAL......I went with Aavik Class D (Pascal)...Both are the Cream of Class D.
What preamp did you use for the agd amps?
Did you ,by chance, hook it up to some Arendals? Would be interested to see what that combo would sound like.
😂 I’ve gone through 3 amplifiers in 43 years lmfao . That’s y I listen to your advice I guess . Hope to c u in Florida next show . Another greeaatt video . My next system I’m going to start on in 24 or 25 will b a Decware unit
yes it was long but helpfull and I enjoyed it as your enthusiasm seems to be quite honest. I believe hifi is about bang (based on personal preferencies) for bug and it seems like very good candidate. Thank you for the review.
Jay, what would be your favorite speaker to pair with these amps? .
I like the same sound characteristics from a system as you!
Hey Jay, what pre-amp did you use for these. I'm not sure if you mentioned that. I'm interested in buying these, I'm just not a fan of their preamps. Any suggestions? Thanks!
Agreed - I was making that too. Hope Jay adds this info down the line
I was at a showroom and saw the AGD amp, neveer dig into it and missed the chance to listen to them, what a drag... Thanks for your introduction, I will investigate in it. BTW, I also wanting to hear the SPEC from Japan which was on my radar but hard to find a dealer.
Nice review Jay! Sounds really intriguing, just with they had an integrated version. So I also really like the music samples you provided and the sound quality of them. Can you give us your playlist? Were the samples recorded from your system?
It's coming
Jay, you're the best. I was listening to this video while working and I plan on listening again or even more because the information seems important. I love tubes and kept thinking...looks tubes and Jay say's its actually not tubes.
Hence the rewatching I will need to understand it all.
The equipment is simply gorgeous to look at
i really love this hobby so much and constantly amazed at the gear that comes around.
Thank goodness im not on the marry go round to purchase like Ive heard about.
Thanks take care
Shootout please:
AGD vs Daniel Hertz Maria Amplifier
Steve Huff refers to this
Thanks for the AGD Audion review. Correct me if i'm wrong, but I saw cabinet/stands/panels used but no mention of the preamp or DAC used!
T
I was just about to buy the Cambridge Edge system . Can I please ask how this compares!!?
Any chance you heard these amps paired with Martin Logan 13A ESL?
Fo those who dont want to spend $8000 for a channel, AGD has the Tempp di gan for $5500 for a stereo amp.
Did you review the other AGD amps ? Thank you.
Hey jay great review. In your opinion what is the best tube preamp that can match the agd amp?
Dear friend, as a formal electronic engineer, audio hobbyist, there are some things I want to tell you.
First of all, the designer will always tell you that his equipment is special and that gallium is better than silicon, the ones that switch faster and everything.
Then the first thing you hear is the room, it is the one that generates the most distortion, then the speakers, and you will probably never hear the amplifier.
An amplifier is measured on a lab test bench.
An audio chain is composed of the source, amplifier, speakers, room, ear. and the weak points are always the speakers and the room, they are what add more color to the music.
Try to talk to professionals who don't sell snake oil. always.
Thank you for your comment. As an individual with an electrical engineering degree but haven't practiced in the field as much, your comment is well appreciated and respected however I disagree with the notion that you will not hear the amplifier. And many engineers in the audio industry I have talked to and learnt from have never said such things. As an electrical engineer, you should be able to know that GaN isn't snake oil and is indeed better performing (atleast on paper) than silicon
Well said I agree
It’s just a class d amp in a tube bottom line. I’ve had 30 valve amps and my dad designed the schematics himself and used bva British valves. I’m very fortunate knowing dad was a radioham in the Uk. I was the lucky son who had hand made valve amps. Never spent a penny. I had ultra linear push pull single ended etc. I personally think from experience hand made and designed is best. Most new tube amps are on pcb mine were all point to point wired. Really easy to change valves too.
Not true. Last year I sold my amplifier and bought a new one. Streamer and speakers are the same, listeners are the same, and to the best of my knowledge the room hasn’t changed a bit. Well, it sounds completely different.
And each amplifier I tested in this room with the same setup had a distinct sound.
Incorrect. Very. The amplifier makes a huge difference. I hear it every day when I change my amplifier around. And my room happens to be very problematic.
I heard these at two shows this year, and they did sound universally awesome. I have the Atma-Sphere Class D and they sound similar. Though, the reference AGD might have the edge, would have to hear them together.
Not 100 percent on this but I believe AGD consults for Atma-sphere for their class D
@@Jayiyagiinteresting bit of info
Class d is the future. I am looking into one but not sure what one. I have champagne taste on a beer budget
No, I don't think that is accurate. Ralf of Atma-Sphere has spoken extensively about developing his circuit from scratch over 5 years. I would like to hear the AGDs at home sometime though!
1. How much do the Audions heat up? My tube amplifier here is like an oven.
2. Do I need 2 of them, for bi-wiring? What's the difference if I have 1 or 2 of them - I never understood bi-wiring, is it just for more power, or more sound qualities, or both?
3. You said that this amplifier for sure won't sound good with all speakers. Does that mean the amp won't be worth the money for some speakers, or it will sound very good and worth it for all speakers and exceptionally great for most?
Great review as always though, I love how you give examples and do a lot of comparisons!
Hello, well it heats up very little, for 2 reasons, it is a Class-D and uses GaN Mosfets and not silicon Mosfets. Then yes, for wiring you need 2+2 power amps, for each section of the speakers, time the number of speakers. The rest is a matter of trying the amp with the speaker you wish to try and landing on a personal conclusion. I am sure Jay has tested numerous speakers, but ultimately not all speakers available in the market and produced since the beginning of HiFi.
@@Albert-nj9xm Ah, I just read on their website that they say this is a monoblock type amplifier. So their price is per pair (2 monoblocks, like Jay has in the video), which means I have nothing to worry about. I just never used a monoblock, so I got confused why there are 2 amplifiers in the video.
Will be interesting to see how the new Hypex X Series amps will compare
I just auditioned the Luxman CL-38uC and CL-88uC, a preamp and amp. It was in my home with my Quad ESL-63 electrostatic speakers and I fell almost instantly in love. They are expensive for me so I urgently need a professional opinion. Have you heard these? Could you review them?
Geez people are ruthless in their comments on RUclips I appreciate your concise and descriptive comments, listening to clips online are near useless anyway. One question Jay, were you using your Audio Note pre during your time with the AGDs? Thanks.
Partially yes but I mostly liked it with the denafrips athena pre. Looking to try agd’s own pre soon
Jay you have been biased about class D AMP until you heard this AGD likewise until I heard leema elements class D Amp from Leema Acoustics which is just 56watts @ 8 ohms.
Class D if well implemented (expensive) can sound as good as an AB or even better.
Jays thanks for the information! I’m glad to heard about new brands and new technology at least out of the regular brands, it’s fresh. My question, what preamp do you use with this amps?
I used many different pre amps but audio note m2 and denafrips athena was what I mainly used. Athena being my favourite for the AGD. Looking to try AGD's own pre now
Thanks!
@@Jayiyagi
The GeN400 by Peachtree how do they compare? It's a very good amplifier and not overexpensive have you listened to one jay?
I haven't listend to the Peachtree or the AGD. The thing that distinguishes the agd is it was designed form the ground up as a musical playback device. All others that I'm aware of were adaptations of a existing GAN device designed for other applications. The AGD has the mark of a true head to trail design and apparently it's really really nice sounding product.
Go for Fosi v3. Only choice for class D.
Hey Jay!
What about best amp for under 1k. I have (or am waiting on) the Heco Celan Revolution 3. What would you pair it with? Thanks man! best a
Hi jay i am big fan of your chanel, youre riviews are to honest, i saw your opinion on the comparation of the bhk preamp and the mcintosh 70th aniversary, when discribeb your preference, for the bhk preamp i buy the bhk preamp for my legacy focuse se and sound great, now i saw your review of the AGD audions mono i whant to buy them , or the duets , you think the bhk pre and AGD monos is good match for my legacy focuse se, ? If dont bather you i like to now your opinion becuase the legacy have great bass, and class d amp are streong on bass. My concern is not to overkill and lees sound detail on the mids and highs, thanks. Alfredo
Love the review Jay! I have so many Amps already - now I’m seriously considering selling them to get these instead.. 🙈I need to find a way to audition them first though. Can you please add some info on what pre-amps will work well with them?
U nailed it jay..peace!
Good solid state preamp match to keep the slight warmth, detail, air and speed?
Hi
How does it compare to other GaN class D amps?
Regards
Dag
I am really curious comparing these babies to the Mola Mola Kalugas. Both Class D, almost same price, measurements and musicality.
Curious about the difference between Denafrips Thallo amp and the AGD's...I bought the Thallo on your review, love them with my Musical Paradise 701 MkII preamp and Gustard R26 DAC.
Have you heard Aavik or atmasphere amplifiers to say this is the best?
I heard these GaN amps compared with a beefy pair of Audio Research Mono's, I s/state revered amp (4get) & a seriously expensive looking pair of S.E. triode amps. From digi out into my Arcam surround with it's Zone 2 speaker outs playing into my main stereo pair. In comparison only (of course) they absolutely flawed the other amps on every conceivable parameter of sound quality. I can only aspire to owning a pair but GaN is where it's at, man. Especially these charmers of the ear
I’ve been seeing these Amps on your videos for a while now…why so long to review?? And I would love it if in future videos you share which other equipment you use when reviewing just amplifiers, not Integrated. And yes the video was long mostly because of “redundancy”. For me, the Brunoco, Integrated for $3500…which you gave tremendous praise to, is a better value by far. I went back and listened to your review of the Brunoco and your descriptions of it were very similar. Is the connected power cord third party or is it the one included with the unit?? Are the speaker cables the same as the ones at the show??
Jay, it would be enlightening to hear your opinion of the Orchard Audio Starkrimson Ultra GaN-based amp that you also heard at the Florida show. Many thanks.
yes, from what I heard at the show, it was promising. Not like omfg like the AGD but for fraction of the price, it was still impressive
@@JayiyagiThanks Jay for sharing your observations.
From your comments so far on different gears, I understood that you like tube sound, mid range with meat but also with details, I can guess how AGD sound like, may be similar to a good tube preamplifier + Purifi module amp. The out look design of AGD seems like to tell us it is tube sound class D amplifier.
Thanks for responding
Hey Jay, I saw the big Revival Audio Atalante 5 Monitors in this video. Today I was for a visit in france at the factory of Revival Audio. Please tell me your Impression and if you like the speakers. 👍🌹👍
Should be an exciting review with the AGD😅
Great video, , do the agd amp’s do better then Hegel amp’s with Maggie’s?
Do you think that the AGD Duets are better ?
I am interested in the RF Certaldo Series 2 speakers. Would you have info on where to see, listen to, and purchase a pair? I live in the US. I am building a new system. I watch and enjoy your channel. I have learned what and how to listen to hifi equipment and what I like. Your description of this pairing interests me. This will probably be my endgame system. Your help would be greatly appreciated.
I'm glad these drive Maggies well. Fantastic review, I've been eyeing these for awhile. How would you compare them against Hegel with Maggies?
It is similar but the imaging and sound staging is even better than the Hegel H600 in my opinon
How does the power of the Hegel H600 compare to the AGD? Will they drive B&W 805d3’s with ease?
Intrigued, I would love to audition one. $7,850 - $ 8,600 for the Audion amp and another $ 4,999 + Tax for the Alto preamp. This bit of kit, I do see as something that would be out of reach for most consumers.
Yup… new car for that.. with some kicker 12’s in the back… and I’d be tickled pink and wouldn’t pull over for days…. 😂🤣😂
And as far as the NAT… a new truck chromed out and bump in it… and never be happier to listen to marantz receiver for the 90’s with some Fisher 10’s bumping at home when I wasn’t in my new truck or car. Bet!
@@MikeHensley-sc3nsWhere can you even get a new car for that? Not in the USA. That’s for sure. And those 12’s aren’t going to install themselves either. IME your money is much better spent on home audio. You’ll get better SQ at home for a couple, or three grand.
Than you’ll ever get in your car. And yes I’ve heard many high end car systems. In fact the guys at the meets would sometimes say not to get into home audio, because it will ruin car audio for you. And you’ll never want to go back. And that’s exactly what happened to me actually. ✌️
Great amp but in general class D and tube amplifiers are a no go with the Dynaudio Heritage Specials are they? Did you had the oppurtunity to try this?
Jay thank you for the excellent review. I have watched nearly all of your videos and it is clear that you are so very impressed with his is amplifiers performance. I may have missed it in the video, but can you comment what preamplifier type in pairing you enjoyed the most with these monoblocks?
In a reply to @roberleiton, Jay said ‘I used many different pre amps but audio note m2 and denafrips athena was what I mainly used. Athena being my favourite for the AGD. Looking to try AGD's own pre now’
Hi Jay, enjoying your reviews, you are e real pro!
want to ask what do you think of their combination with the Greshman Avantgarde
thanks in advance
Best regards
Ran
Have you ever had the pleasure of hearing the electroresearch A-75 amp by John Iverson? I was at his lab in the early seventies and have never heard anything better. I also heard his radio based plasma speakers.
Got a mate with one. Still plays sublime sounds.
Jay, You’d rather have the AGDs over the Audio Note Tonmeister?
Which speakers would match well with these Audions? How would the Arendal THX Towers or Monitors match with these amps?
It was a bit long but your enthusiasm was as convincing as you would have hoped 👍🏼
Can we have demo of these amplifier and let us decide for ourself's Jay's, thank you your presentations
I appreciated this review, Jay. I really hope you get a chance to review their other products.
Beautiful thank you exactly what I’m looking for ;-)
Lets reframe best amplifier to "best of all time" sounding or most musical: a well regarded audiophile CEO told me years ago that his favorite (fastest most musical) amplifier was the Pilot 232 EL 84 amplifier which, for years, has been at the center of the Hong Kong Audio club's favorite systems. Of course, there is no best amplifier - what matters is the amplifier speaker combination which is the way systems compete in Hong Kong. Curious to know if the Hong Kong audio club did a listening comparison between the Pilot 232 and AGD?The pilot 232 is a simple push pull amplifier which 1) distorts harmonically and 2) is very very fast on transients, while also adds decay and "hall sound" to notes as is the characteristic of the el84 tube...the end result being the recorded playback sounds more like the live concert than the recording and more live than if played back on a more "accurate" amplifier.
Hi Jay, o er the years you have gotten very good at reviewing. I presently own PS Audio Class D M700 monoblocks and the Stellar Gain Cell DAC/Pre. And my speakers are Danny’s NX Studios. Have you heard the PS Audio Class D gear? I feel like I am missing something sonically. Your thoughts on PS audio gear? Should I be looking to change? Your thoughts and recommendations? Thank you!
I have experience with both...The store I used to work at used to carry PS audio M700s and I went to Texas and had good listening sessions with the NX studios.
However I didn't hear the NX studios with the M700s. So take my educated "guess" here with a grain of salt... I think your NX studios will love the AGD Audions far more... Audition one if you can
Great review - so it will be good to see your NAT review! What I didn't get is how the AGD compares with the Tonmeister.
Did OCD Mikey pay you for this video? He’s been preaching AGD and NAT for years and is a dealer of both. So you’ve validated Mikey’s opinion, which is really nice to hear.
No I have not received any payment or product for my opinions
Yep, I was trying to figure out who was going on about this amplifier, and then I remembered that eccentric (nut) who has all those amazing tube amps videos. Mikey. He did talk about what was in that tube that made it so revolutionary. It's interesting to see that their may be validation with other audio reviewers. So Mikey, I apologize for calling you an eccentric(nut). Perhaps it's your wild, wide eye, frumpy style that doubted you.
@@JayiyagiI know you didn’t. Twas a joke. But between Mike’s aptitude for audio gear and your ability to sell, I must have this amp now!
Thank you for your insight on this brand amplifier. Strange thing though, with the asking prices for these amps, i'm surprised at the terrible quality photos on the website, LOL.
Did you try the Audion with Tad ME1? If not, what are your thoughts on this combination?