I've had the Emotiva A-300 for 4 years and use the A-100 pre-amp, it's performed flawlessly. It's pushing a pair of Epos M-5 speakers at 4 ohms. I've never once heard the fans turn on, and i'm near field listening in a small room. I and everyone who's heard it thinks it sounds wonderful. I'm using a Rega Planar 2 turntable with Sumiko Blue point cartridge and a Cambridge Azur 640v2 CD player for my source.
Thanks Sean. I am running this emo through a 20 year old Denon AVR-3806 with Maggie MMGs on Sound Anchor stand. Sounds great in 14x15 bedroom. Very reliable and quiet. Nice review and happy friday! Be safe!
Sean, as always, love your reviews and your presentation style. I have two BasX A300s. One is paired up with a Denon AVR X3500H driving a pair of Klipsch RP 280Fs in my main home theater system. The other is paired up with a Denon AVR X3600H driving a pair of "classic" Mirage M290s. The M290s were the first higher quality pair of speakers that I purchased in 1996 and have enjoyed for 24 years. The split between music listening and movies with my main home theater system (Klipsch RP280Fs) is 50/50 and the split with my second system (Mirage 290s) is 95/5. I listen to most of my music at low to moderate listen levels. For those who happen to have a Denon AVR 3500 or 3600 my music listening levels range from a volume setting of 35 up to 60. I like enjoy a quiet night of music with the volume down low and the lights down low. I find it very relaxing. On the home theater side of things, volume levels are typically from 55 to 70. I find that the BasX A300 handles the range of both of these scenarios well with both of my systems. I have never heard a hum or a hiss and I've never heard the fans kick on. When I first set up the Denon/Emotiva combinations I would routinely measure the temperature of both units with an infrared thermometer and temperatures stayed relatively cool (up to 20 degrees above ambient). I like the build quality of the BasX A300 and appreciate the temperature rating of the capacitors (105 Celsius). With my military discount and the current Emotiva promotion (30% effective discount with EmoBucks). I effectively paid less than $300 per unit. I don't think you'll find a better value proposition than that. Once again, thank you for all the excellent reviews that you do. Regards, Mike
I have a denon avr4500 and I’m looking into a 2 channel zone amplifier to utilize the full 11 channels of the receiver. Do you have to manually turn on/off the emotiva each time you use it? Or is there a way to use the 12 v trigger with the receiver to automatically turn on the emotiva?
Thanks to your review I finally pulled the trigger. I been loitering around Emotiva site for months wondering if this is worth the money to upgrade from my Behringer A800. I picked up the PT-100 Preamp DAC and A300 amp, so far I'm very impressed and will be keeping this setup for a while. I will be reviewing the A300 on my channel soon to go along with the PT-100 video I already did a few months back. Big fan of the channel, great perspective and content.
Great review. I have the A-500 and I'd say you nailed it there. Quick story. I built a set of diy Markaudio 6.5 full range speakers, bass reflex, .56 cubic feet each, baffle step circuit. First amp was a hybrid tube/class d. Sound was too warm, not much bass. Then I hooked up my A-500. Wow, those speakers came alive. Plenty of everything. Those Markaudios have 8mm of xmax each way. They can move some air.
This was the first amp I got that got me into separates. For that alone I can’t bear to part ways with it. I’ve since moved it out of my main system and to my secondary music/vinyl setup and i couldn’t be happier. It’s a great amp all around and the price point is perfect for anyone looking for a good amp to dip their toes in the water for using separates.
What did you replace it with and why? I am looking into separates and have never used anything except for cheap stereo receivers only because the pricing and trying to understand what you get without actually hearing and seeing products in person is beyond confusing.
I love my A-300, nice powerful amp, good sounding as well. The one time my fans turned on I thought there was something wrong. Opened the door to the cabinet and it went away. FYI in the 3 years I have had my A-300 the fans only turned on once
Hey buddy, i'm trying to get a power amp to hook up to my receiver pre-outs. The reviewer says this amp has thin mids. I prefer thick chocolaty mids. What would work for me?
Hi! Do you have Amp or something else on your A-300 or is it free airflow on the top of it? I ask because I think of getting on and putting it below my amp :)
a great review. you are in a category that's had to beat, no bloating, lean, useful info, no fluff and self promotion. as usual, the part that helps me to decide is the comparison. I cant wait for your review of the IOATA VX "big guy". Thank you Sean.
Emotiva is well priced for Americans at 400 USD, however if you are buying outside the US then the price goes up significantly. In the U.K. the A-300 is 550 GBP, which is a fairly significant price increase compared to US price. Hence I would look elsewhere at competitors
snipe69 The USA is significantly larger than the U.K. As far as size goes, comparing Europe to USA would be more appropriate. I do think that Americans are more patriotic to home made brands than UK or Europe. Personally I don’t care where a product is made, as long as I agree with the company ethics and it is reasonably priced, then I’m good.
Good choice for a review! I have a BasX A-500 and have watched many of your reviews but never really knew how to relate to some reviews. Now I do. For what its worth: Like you I never listen really loud but I have never heard the fans start on my amp.
Great job Sean your on thr money as always ! I finished the overview yesterday of the PT/100 -A300 STACK . Working so much man havent had time to edit the overview. But i did upload a pic yesterday to my community page of BasX big-Stack saying it has a cool clean forward presentation . Funny thing is it really depends on the Preamp ! And yes I have the iFi itube 2 and it added some very nice warmth to the sound and dare i say it that thin midrange got a lil bit more meat on the bone with the I-tube 2 And i did compare the BasX big Stack vs The IOTAVX-STACK only 200.00US difference between the 2 . And the best thing Sean is I bi-amped the IOTAVX-STACK with just the Emotiva A-300 and with the right speakers LSIM 703s-JBL 580s ! I was very impressed for total price !
@@ZeroFidelity thanks Sean just uploaded part 1 of the overview , theirs so much to talk about I had to break it up into 2 overviews, I looked at the 1st recording time and i wad like dang i might have rambled to much lol , 2nd overview i will talk more indepth on sound character of the amp by itself and with The PT-100 Theirs a difference as you mentioned . I have had the EMOTIVA BasX for about 15 months and you nailed it Sean! You talked about the fans also lmao !!! 😆 mines been great for the price point . ohh yeah the the iFi tube 2 helps out tremendously ! Adds a lil meat on the bone ! With a touch of warmness 😆
@@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120 I I just finished tee jays well detailed review but at the end you can see the sound of your voice was off for some reason.🤔🤫😇
@@bigjay1970 thanks big Jay dang it man ! My mic to my camera does that everytime I have big spot lights on me and i almost didn't upload because it looked like a big vain sticking out of my neck ! Thats normally not there ! But yeah Sean i added the ifi itube2 alone and with the PT-100 and ohh my goodness ! ! Sean i was listing to spotifys Audiophile music with effects and the 3d switch on the tube2 ohh my almost 360 sound stage !
Dang 19k views already ! I'm pumped up with 500 views in one day lol ! Solid-State-muscle on a budget !! I got one more comparrssion video Sean , After that want me to send ya the Matching Digital Pre-amp your call buddy ! Great job Sean this is why i'm a Patreon of your channel !
If you want a good tube pre amp under $1000 just get a Schiit Saga+ or Freya+. The Freya got much love from many reviewers and might even be a giant killer with different tubes
I’m using a Schiit Saga+ with my A300 and the combo is the best sound I’ve ever had. And yes, my room is large and dead and my speakers love power. Love your reviews! Do you ever review turntables? Thanks!
Like the aesthetics right off. Nice looking build quality, and price point. The under the hood components look pretty nice. Seems like great bang for the buck.
Sean...correct me if you feel I'm wrong. You mention this Emotiva power amp producing a certain "sound". Would you agree a preamp produces more of the tone signature than a power amp?
Pretty much loving the A-300. It's mated with the PT-100 preamp and Klipsch RP-600M's. With a powered sub, it fills a large room with no hint of running out of gas. To tame the brightness of the Klipsch's, I keep the treble at -3 dB. I just ordered the Schiit Loki to more accurately balance out the brightness of the Klipsch's than the more broad tone control method. I listen to music more than toan audio 'system.' After about a month, I'm totally satisfied. The only change will be the Loki. As NASA would say, I've landed in the "stable 1" attitude. PS: You were right about the fans. I keep the amp behind closed doors in an equipment cabinet. For me, they run *a lot*
My first amp. I upgraded from an AVR. I use the preouts on my AVR and send my L/R channels to the amp. Noticeable improvement in sound. If you’re on the fence about separates, this is a cheap way to find out what a separate amp has to offer. Also, I’ve never heard the fans.
Same here, I love my AVR but I also do a good amount of music listening. The A-300 gives my towers a bit more life whenever I decide to switch over to stereo listening. Good starter amp!
Another great review, as a starting point for high end audio $399 is a no brainer. Emotiva has established a good reputation for producing quality products. 150 watts is a good amount of power. Because you are getting that full 150 watts. An AVR or receiver can't put a beefed up power supply with all the other stuff jammed in there. If you want a better pre-amp used is always an option. You want to go to home theater you add a 5 channel amp for a 7.1 system. There's always options.
I have tested this amp and I agree whit all you say about it. I had it for a couple months with a pair of elac UB5 and I didn't like it so much. It´s a good, solid and powerful amp, but my taste it´s going to other direction. I sold it. Thank you again for your trusty and honest reviews. Greetings from Guadalajara, Mexico!
Great review. Thanks. My take-away is that the SA3 PA3 IOTA combo equals-out the power advantage the A-300 has while retaining the advances of neutrality. I'm thinking my presence would be the IOTA stack.
Thank you very much, I'm starting to prepare myself for, what is for me a very expensive endeavor into a separate amp, that I'm thinking to install it behind and old Marantz AV receiver. I'm starting to understand the descriptions better. Thank you very much for your work! I have much more learning to do🤓
Awesome. So grateful for this review. I'm thinking about purchasing the Wharfedale Linton Anniversary speakers which are described as having a bit of a rolled off top end and a warmer tone. I think this amp might be perfect for it. A tad bit on the bright side of neutral and not adding to that warm tone. PERFECT! Thank you ZERO FIDELITY! Now time to purchase all the components to what will be my first 'audiophile' system. Unfortunately the A-300 isn't in stock right now. But eventually I plan to have it all together.
Is there even a better amplifier for someone like you describe? I am that guy who wants big open and powerful for metal and electronic. I own this amp and I do like it, but is there anything worth spending money on to upgrade ?? I was thinking Parasound A21+, but is it even worth it (@ 8x the price)??
Great review as usual. I really enjoy your reviews. Just a suggestion, how about a video not reviewing equipment, but the music you use to test them. We get a little sniglet of sound in every review and to tell you the truth, some of it sounds really good. I'm always open to music suggestions and I'm sure others are as well.
This is the response I received on July 28, 2020 regarding the fan noise issue, although it appears to focus on chirping and not fan noise based on the whirling of the blades: “We have modified the power supply fan drive circuit so that the voltage to the fan doesn't kick in until high enough to actually turn the fan. (before, the voltage would go to the fan long before it could start the fan motor and so the fans sat there and mechanically chirped instead of turning). Therefore, if you purchase a NEW A-300 the fan noise issue has been resolved.”
Excellent review! I have an older Emotiva UPA-200 2-Channel Amplifier. It has similar fans that only turn on if you blast music for a while. Compared to the First Watt F7, the Emotiva is definitely brighter and harder sounding. The Emotiva is still an excellent value, a mid-fi amp that I would highly recommend to anyone on a tighter budget. The First Watt is about ten times the price, but it is certainly in another league when it comes to refinement.
Hey Sean, this may be a stupid question. But what is it amp it sound characteristics? Is it the capacitors, filters, transistors, Etc. Or is it the way the wiring schematic is done. The reason I ask is if I recap my amplifier or replaced transistors will it change the sound? Thanks so much for all your wonderful videos
Great job. My choice was down to this Emotiva and the Crown XLS 1002. I went with the crown mostly due to the power. Did I make the right choice? I think it sounds great but my ears are 50 years old and I've played guitar and music much too loud over the years.
Ive had the TA100 A300 combo for 3 years now. I get amps to demo and review all the time. Rotel 1582 AS1200 Anthem STR Hegel H95 All of the above are more detailed, have better imaging and sound stage. But not a big enough difference to intice me to upgrade for the cost. Maybe the Hegel for improvement for price, just. It's very transparent and has nice relaxed sound, great imaging and realistic sound. Definitely not bright but maybe a little thin in upper mid. It's is ver non fatiguing, I listen to hours and nod off to sleep. Plus has all the functions. DAC, Tuner, phonostage, lots of inputs and outputs. Best amp for the money!
@@enjoyunreality Hegel was more detailed, clear and transparent. plus it had a nice vibe. Good for a small room and sensitive speakers. The AS1200 and 2200 are more punchy, aggressive and possibly better for speakers that are a little dull in the upper mids.
Hi I got a question? I have a Denon X6500h AV receiver would recommend this with my Denon receiver? I have 3.1 Klipsch Setup with a RP-600C Center Channel Speaker and two Klipsch RP-160M Bookshelf Speakers and a Klipsch R-112SW Subwoofer
Sean, I had planned on utilizing this amp for a small to medium sized room. I have 600m's which as you know are a little bright. To counter that, would you recommend going with Iotavx sa3 instead since these speakers are not power hungry. I like a neutral to a very slightly bright response. Should I consider something else?
Thanks for the review. I just purchased a Marantz NR1200 and it is great. It is a unique item given it is an avr and stereo all in one with dual sub woofer and LR pre outs. I am using it in a 2.1 stereo configuration. I am running Paradigm Monitor 3 V.3 speakers and two subwoofers (Polk Audio PSW10). My question is, will I hear an improvement if I purchase the A -300 to drive my speakers and connect it using the pre outs from the NR1200? Is it worth jumping to 150 WPC at 8 Ohms from the NR1200’s 75 WPC at 8 ohms? I also have a set of Paradigm Monitor 9 V. 1 speakers that I was considering using instead of the Paradigm Monitor 3 speakers. I want to ensure that if I make the purchase for the A-300, I will hear a difference. Thanks in advance....
I consider the lack of comparing this to the Crown XLS-2502 that you and Steve just reviewed a miss. Can you comment on the differences and preferences for us?
There is no absolute with power and gear matching. Been using a 8 watts single ended tube integrated and I am still amazed at how it drives my 23 years old 85db sealed box Sony SS-m3. also using a year old emotiva A-500 on full range pioneer speakers and it is a very quiet warmish to my ears nice sounding amplifier. nice work Mr Sean and thank you for keeping posting reviews it is appreciated and a great distraction from these sorry ass recent events. T.
Thanks for doing this Sean. I bought the A-150 and PT-100 preamp and pretty happy with my first steps into more of an audiophile rig and separates. Paired it with the Elac UNIF UB5s and quite satisfied for the price. Elac's really deserve the A-300 but on a budget :( Also Schiit Modi DAC and 15" DIY Dayton Ultimax sealed sub with 1,000 amp. Nice little setup but more of bedroom system for most of your viewers :)
Great review. I have a pair of Triangle BR03 speakers and a Topping E30 DAC that can be used as preamplifier. I want to change my old amplifier. In your opinion, which power amplifier gives the best match, IOTAVX PA3 or EMOTIVA BasX A-300?
Hi, very nice review. Can you tell me something...I have Marantz SR5008 using pre outs with Marantz PM8005 in power amp mode. I have speakers Klipsch RP 600M, and Pioneer N50AE streamer. What you think, will be any difference adding Emotiva 300 instead Pm8005? Ty for answer...
Hello! If I add the BasX A-300 to my Denon 8500H, am I going to get an immediate audible improvement in sound ? My speakers are B&W 603's (new ones). Or you would suggest the Emotiva Gen -3 amps over this one for my Denon 8500H ? Thanks much.
Hi Sean, I have a topic for you. I have never had a desktop system because I never spent enough time at home at my desk to ever set one up for near field listening. How things change, now I only work from home on my desk top :( So I set up a desk top system now. Who else has done this, what did they choose, how is it working for people, like it, hate it? Are the speakers you had working for near field or are they better when far away? Surprised they working better for one application Vs the other
Hmm. My knee-jerk reaction is that the PA3 would be the better tonal match, but if you want to try out the Emotiva, it's worth doing so long as you live in an area where you can return it (in case ya dont like it).
Hi Sean. Thanks for the review. It was very helpful. Just one question. You said that the emotiva had a high damping factor and would work well with polk tsi speakers. I have Polk ati a9's and nothing I've got sounds good with them except an old school antique Harman Kardon amp. I couldn't figure out why, but wondered if it was the damping factor. Both Denon and Onkyo Amps i purchase didn't do the job. Do you think the emotiva would work well with them?
@@sketch334 i would not recommend it. I have not been happy with them since i got them 3 years ago. I just fixed then myself this last weekend since polk tech support only suggestion for my issues were to increase wattage. I borrowed a friend 400w per channel crown amp and it sounded even worse then the other 5 amps i tried. The polks are poorly designed and cheaply made. Only 18 gauge wire. The woofers were wired out of phase. The solder joints were not very good. I replace wiring to 12 guage OFC and wired then correctly. Now they sound good. Now using the first amp i was using. I would recommend buying something from a different manufacture. There were other issues with how it was built.
@Fat Rat Hey how are you? Do Canadians eat kimchi? Pancakes and maple syrup sounds nicer; probably less acid and easier to clean off the amplifier too.
Schiit Saga pre with the tube is a great match. Ran that with an A-300 for a couple years. Very enjoyable and satisfying for the money. $775 for the combo is a great value. You can experience 70% to 75% of a much higher end system for a fraction of the price. Pairs well with many different speakers. I liked the Elac B6.2s. Also very affordable. Very decent system minus a source for about $1100. I am running the Saga now with a low power tube amp and some beautiful circa 1985 Cornwalls. An incredible combination! Thanks, Sean. Review was spot on.
I have a similar setup (a-300, saga+ and elac ub-5) and agree that it delivers a very satisfying, quality, listening experience. I’ve had the emotiva for 4 years and would love to hear Sean’s thoughts on a logical upgrade under $1k. Is it even worth considering upgrading under $1k or wait till the budget is enough to afford the next tier. Sean, any thoughts on this?
My denon 3600h is about 80 watts all channels driven and 105 watts two channels according to audioholics. Would this amp make my klipsch rp8000f sound better or louder? I’m new to this and everyone tells me I should get an amp
This question is for anyone that watched all the way to the end ;) What happens to the dampening factor on the IOTAVX PA3 & SA3 combo when bridged? Sorry not sure where to ask this, I come form the wild world of car audio if you bridge a 2ch class A/B amp @ 8ohms you end up with a 4ohm load and 1/2 the damping factor. I feel like the PA3/SA3 combo is still a fair comparison to the BasX A-300 because you still need a pre amp with the Emotiva and the the $900 IOTAVX stack would be rated at about the same power driving 8ohm speakers
Question, this would be a pretty good mono block amp. With that said, can this amp be bridged safely? Wonder why companies don't inform customers one way or the other?
Thanks for reviewing Emotiva products, I just purchased an ERC-4 CD player from them, like it a lot, I think in general, it fits into the character of this amp also, high on the bright side, middle nice, deep base. Would you be reviewing that in the future? Also, nice feet, a perk of working from home.......
For it being a class a/b it has pretty high THD specs though, whats your take on that? Thinking about going with yamaha as series or denon pma series over this but not sure yet.
@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt class a/b amps typically have lower thd, and alot of its competition does have lower thd, so point being why couldnt they match the competition.
Nice review! Like your comment on "sound" (hiss or humming) coming from the transformers especially of inexpensive amps. This is most annoying to me and I already returned 3 amps due to this. BTW what about pairing the amp with a Pro-ject pre box s2+?
How does it compare to a $1200 to $2000 class receiver? I have an Aventage and I love the sound quality, but it could use more power to keep up with my lower sensitivity speakers.
Hi, ive got a question. Im thinking of changing either my speakers or amp. Currently have the b&w 607 with 608 sub and marantz pm5005. I have no complaints but i want to have a taste of a step up. Would changing my marantz to an emotiva a300 plus ifi itube2 sound much better or should i focus on speaker upgrade? Thanks
Can you also review the anthem MCA 225 or 325 amplifiers and the emotiva dr3 amp? I’m currently running an anthem receiver with b&w 603 towers. I’d like to add an exerenal amp but can’t decide between the anthem or emotiva. Thanks!! Great reviews!!
still using my emotiva xpa-2 which i bought 7 years a go. still using big toroid and linear power supply unlike their new products. but it's good to see they don't use switching power supply in some of their amps.
I have a dac/h'phone amp XDuoo XD05 Plus as my main source, and can feed line out through a pot into a power amp (currently doing this into my Sherwood Newcastle R-725 whose pre has gone screwy) So BasX A2 or an ex-demo MF M2si -both around £500 mark in UK?
Hi, I want to upgrade my system with Emotiva BasX A3, with my Denon AVR-X4700H & Polk Reserve R600 & R400 for my front stage. Is this combination will be helpful to improve the sound quality, dynamics & shifting the load off from AVR that will improve the surround speakers R100 & Atmos speakers performance. What is Your advice, your suggestion will be great help for me.
It will handle 6 Ohms well. Actually it is how low impedances go in some speakers. A safe low level is 2 Ohm. 1 Ohm is pushing it a little. Check the frequency response/impedance of your speaker.
Figured somebody would ask about that. XTZ = similar sound, but better. No noise at all. Even clearer and more refined. Edit: Hope you're doing alright up there.
Zero Fidelity Thanks! Exactly my question as well :) Btw. In the same league is the Nord One MP NC252. Would love to see your opinion on that one. www.nordacoustics.co.uk/product-page/nord-one-mp-nc250-stereo-power-amp-in-silver
@@ZeroFidelity Yup, I'm that guy, always asking the obvious. Getting the itch for a bit more power for the A2's, but not sure if class D is the right way to go. Trust you're well too. All's good in the epicenter of the Covid-19 pandemic in VA. Only thing that's changed is there are fewer people on the roads. Makes the commute much better.
It was good to me but the fan noise was the deal breaker. It was housed in an open cabinet, but I do live in a desert climate, so hotter than others, perhaps. Regardless of the fan, I thought the unit was good. I used the 2017ish version, for the record.
I was in Las Vegas with the A-300 in a ckosed cabinet and the fans only turned on once in the 2-1/2 years I used it there. It scared ghe crap out of me as they almost squealed. I don't think I would have kept if this was a regular thing.
Nice one. Obviously interesting to me since I have the BasX A-150. Bought my first passive speaker system in November and ran out of money for the amp (all my other components cost a lot more than it, more than $1500 each except for the Project Streamer) With horn loaded Triangles floorstanders I have to agree on the more livelier presentation which I can bear, thogh not always enjoy fully. But for the bass I was expecting it to be faster, instead it's a bit ( really just a bit. It also works some times, imo. Eg. there was this Flecktones album where Wooten's bass felt very realistic) too bloaty. Sure, the BassX 300 must be better in every way except for that fan. Hate fans Plan is to shoot directly for dual Schiit Aegirs when I can afford them...
Emotiva is almost 4 times more powerful. The Denon is a integrated stereo receiver & emotiva is just a power amplifier. For emotiva you will need a pre amp. It suggest you to go for emotiva as the company tries to bring hifi audio to regular people unlike Denon & mazantz.
I have the emotiva pre/amp stack with Elac ub52. Now I am heavily looking at a Iotavx pa3/sa3 stack. I can't seem to find anything that can compare for $1K or am I missing something?
I have tried alot of poweramps the last two years,best one so far is the rotel rb 991 (2x200w 8ohm) Tomorrow im picking up rotel rb 1070 (2x125w 8ohm). Do you know these amps and will you say the emotiva basx300 is better?
Same question I have. I have a RB-1050 and looking to add another, or a RB-1070 for a second set of speakers. Was wondering if this would be a good alternative. Or is it a bit better. Or is the Rotel a bit better. Rotel list for more so is it a beefier build. Higher quality parts, or more profit to the manufacturer. Which would generally be considered a more open sound. At this price point I wondered if I should sell the Rotel for two of these. Or, between the two there isn’t enough difference to matter. Beautiful, unless I want matching out the fires. I could have one of each
@@ZeroFidelity Emotiva has an upgrade kit for fixing that. I just bought mine a couple of months ago, that noise appeared in an hour or so and killed me, I googled the problem finding out that it's very common, called the importer and they fixed it for free adding a new fan controller/temperature sensor or smth like that. Never heard it after that.
I wonder, if you change the fans to something like noctau, vibration absorbing mounting and speed controller instead of on/off then the sound from the fan chould be a absolut minimum.
Hi. Great review and opinion on it. I would like to know if you can give me the difference between parasound and emotiva in term of sound reproduction for about same budget. For example the 2125v2 vs this one ?. thanks
Hey, I saw this and became curious about the 2125 V2. Differences over the Emotiva A 300 would be: the 2125 runs cooler( 2 heatsinks instead of one), has more connection options and turn on options, and can be run as a monoblock. It can be connected to 2 pairs of speakers as well. As for sound, I've heard neither, but going by this review and others on the 2125, it will have a warmer sound to the A 300's more forward presentation. I think it's one of those situations where you pay more and get more with the 2125.
Stephen Sharkey I’m considering the 2125v2 because of the additional speaker hookup. However I can’t find any reviews on the 2125v2 where have u found any?
@@mattfischer8413 i have one for over a year from now. Very clean. Reproduce exactly what you send him. Transpenrency and warmth are the first thing I haved noticed. For the price it's hard to beat. Very good Sound quality. I have a good pre amp and a very good DAC also. The parasound drive like a champion my pair of Focal Aria 926 and totem Rainmaker
I got B&W 603 s2 (2002 Version) tower speakers as my mains and I run a 7.3.4 from Marantz AVR 6014 and a monoprice 50watt 2 channel amp for 2 of my 4 atmos speakers as that 6014 is a 11 channel Pre 9 channel amp AVR. That was great until I started getting into listening to music on the system, LP's and HD audio So my question is would swapping my monoprice amp with this one then letting it drive my L-R fronts instead of the atmos speakers would add anything to my music listening? When I listen I do it Direct so just the left and right speakers.
I've had the Emotiva A-300 for 4 years and use the A-100 pre-amp, it's performed flawlessly. It's pushing a pair of Epos M-5 speakers at 4 ohms. I've never once heard the fans turn on, and i'm near field listening in a small room. I and everyone who's heard it thinks it sounds wonderful. I'm using a Rega Planar 2 turntable with Sumiko Blue point cartridge and a Cambridge Azur 640v2 CD player for my source.
Thanks Sean. I am running this emo through a 20 year old Denon AVR-3806 with Maggie MMGs on Sound Anchor stand. Sounds great in 14x15 bedroom. Very reliable and quiet. Nice review and happy friday! Be safe!
Thanks Barbera. You be safe as well! Enjoy the music!
Sean, as always, love your reviews and your presentation style.
I have two BasX A300s. One is paired up with a Denon AVR X3500H driving a pair of Klipsch RP 280Fs in my main home theater system. The other is paired up with a Denon AVR X3600H driving a pair of "classic" Mirage M290s. The M290s were the first higher quality pair of speakers that I purchased in 1996 and have enjoyed for 24 years. The split between music listening and movies with my main home theater system (Klipsch RP280Fs) is 50/50 and the split with my second system (Mirage 290s) is 95/5. I listen to most of my music at low to moderate listen levels. For those who happen to have a Denon AVR 3500 or 3600 my music listening levels range from a volume setting of 35 up to 60. I like enjoy a quiet night of music with the volume down low and the lights down low. I find it very relaxing. On the home theater side of things, volume levels are typically from 55 to 70.
I find that the BasX A300 handles the range of both of these scenarios well with both of my systems. I have never heard a hum or a hiss and I've never heard the fans kick on. When I first set up the Denon/Emotiva combinations I would routinely measure the temperature of both units with an infrared thermometer and temperatures stayed relatively cool (up to 20 degrees above ambient). I like the build quality of the BasX A300 and appreciate the temperature rating of the capacitors (105 Celsius). With my military discount and the current Emotiva promotion (30% effective discount with EmoBucks). I effectively paid less than $300 per unit. I don't think you'll find a better value proposition than that.
Once again, thank you for all the excellent reviews that you do.
Regards,
Mike
I have a denon avr4500 and I’m looking into a 2 channel zone amplifier to utilize the full 11 channels of the receiver. Do you have to manually turn on/off the emotiva each time you use it? Or is there a way to use the 12 v trigger with the receiver to automatically turn on the emotiva?
Man you got them for a great price. Me im looking to purchase 2 bass x300 but im waiting for the price to drop, not sure when that will be though
Thanks to your review I finally pulled the trigger. I been loitering around Emotiva site for months wondering if this is worth the money to upgrade from my Behringer A800. I picked up the PT-100 Preamp DAC and A300 amp, so far I'm very impressed and will be keeping this setup for a while. I will be reviewing the A300 on my channel soon to go along with the PT-100 video I already did a few months back. Big fan of the channel, great perspective and content.
Great review. I have the A-500 and I'd say you nailed it there.
Quick story. I built a set of diy Markaudio 6.5 full range speakers, bass reflex, .56 cubic feet each, baffle step circuit. First amp was a hybrid tube/class d. Sound was too warm, not much bass. Then I hooked up my A-500. Wow, those speakers came alive. Plenty of everything. Those Markaudios have 8mm of xmax each way. They can move some air.
This was the first amp I got that got me into separates. For that alone I can’t bear to part ways with it. I’ve since moved it out of my main system and to my secondary music/vinyl setup and i couldn’t be happier. It’s a great amp all around and the price point is perfect for anyone looking for a good amp to dip their toes in the water for using separates.
What did you replace it with and why? I am looking into separates and have never used anything except for cheap stereo receivers only because the pricing and trying to understand what you get without actually hearing and seeing products in person is beyond confusing.
I've been curious about this amp. Nice review. Really love your photo work!
I love my A-300, nice powerful amp, good sounding as well. The one time my fans turned on I thought there was something wrong. Opened the door to the cabinet and it went away. FYI in the 3 years I have had my A-300 the fans only turned on once
Hey buddy, i'm trying to get a power amp to hook up to my receiver pre-outs. The reviewer says this amp has thin mids. I prefer thick chocolaty mids. What would work for me?
Hi! Do you have Amp or something else on your A-300 or is it free airflow on the top of it?
I ask because I think of getting on and putting it below my amp :)
Another good review Sean. You are the king of YT audio reviewers in my opinion.
a great review. you are in a category that's had to beat, no bloating, lean, useful info, no fluff and self promotion. as usual, the part that helps me to decide is the comparison. I cant wait for your review of the IOATA VX "big guy". Thank you Sean.
Emotiva is well priced for Americans at 400 USD, however if you are buying outside the US then the price goes up significantly. In the U.K. the A-300 is 550 GBP, which is a fairly significant price increase compared to US price. Hence I would look elsewhere at competitors
@snipe69 im pretty sure rotel is japanese.
snipe69 The USA is significantly larger than the U.K. As far as size goes, comparing Europe to USA would be more appropriate. I do think that Americans are more patriotic to home made brands than UK or Europe. Personally I don’t care where a product is made, as long as I agree with the company ethics and it is reasonably priced, then I’m good.
What do u have in mind?
Shahid Iqbal
Errm no! 450 euros in Italy. 511 euros in the Czech Rep. 479 in Germany.
Good choice for a review! I have a BasX A-500 and have watched many of your reviews but never really knew how to relate to some reviews. Now I do. For what its worth: Like you I never listen really loud but I have never heard the fans start on my amp.
Modest volume listeners, unite!
I'm a safe levels listener too and my A300 fans have not turned on yet. Thank you for mentioning listening levels!
Great job Sean your on thr money as always ! I finished the overview yesterday of the PT/100 -A300 STACK .
Working so much man havent had time to edit the overview. But i did upload a pic yesterday to my community page of BasX big-Stack saying it has
a cool clean forward presentation .
Funny thing is it really depends on the Preamp ! And yes I have the iFi itube 2 and it added some very nice warmth to the sound and dare i say it that thin midrange got a lil bit more meat on the bone with the I-tube 2
And i did compare the BasX big Stack vs The IOTAVX-STACK only 200.00US difference between the 2 .
And the best thing Sean is I bi-amped the IOTAVX-STACK with just the Emotiva A-300 and with the right speakers LSIM 703s-JBL 580s ! I was very impressed for total price !
Hey Tee Jay. You've been hustlin'. I look forward to your assessment. Glad you're diggin on the system!
@@ZeroFidelity thanks Sean just uploaded part 1 of the overview , theirs so much to talk about I had to break it up into 2 overviews, I looked at the 1st recording time and i wad like dang i might have rambled to much lol , 2nd overview i will talk more indepth on sound character of the amp by itself and with The PT-100 Theirs a difference as you mentioned .
I have had the EMOTIVA BasX for about 15 months and you nailed it Sean! You talked about the fans also lmao !!! 😆 mines been great for the price point . ohh yeah the the iFi tube 2 helps out tremendously ! Adds a lil meat on the bone ! With a touch of warmness 😆
@@tee-jaythestereo-bargainph2120
I I just finished tee jays well detailed review but at the end you can see the sound of your voice was off for some reason.🤔🤫😇
@@bigjay1970 thanks big Jay dang it man ! My mic to my camera does that everytime I have big spot lights on me and i almost didn't upload because it looked like a big vain sticking out of my neck ! Thats normally not there ! But yeah Sean i added the ifi itube2 alone and with the PT-100 and ohh my goodness ! ! Sean i was listing to spotifys Audiophile music with effects and the 3d switch on the tube2 ohh my almost 360 sound stage !
Dang 19k views already !
I'm pumped up with 500 views in one day lol ! Solid-State-muscle on a budget !! I got one more comparrssion video Sean , After that want me to send ya the Matching Digital Pre-amp your call buddy ! Great job Sean this is why i'm a Patreon of your channel !
If you want a good tube pre amp under $1000 just get a Schiit Saga+ or Freya+. The Freya got much love from many reviewers and might even be a giant killer with different tubes
Need to check out their stuff again. Its been awhile.
@@ZeroFidelity Sure, (new) Freya+ is absolutely worth ckecking!
Also the Audio Hungary Qualiton tube preamp... its gone up a bit in price but worth looking into imo
I’m using a Schiit Saga+ with my A300 and the combo is the best sound I’ve ever had. And yes, my room is large and dead and my speakers love power. Love your reviews! Do you ever review turntables? Thanks!
Brad Martin, I have the same combo. What speakers are you using. I am currently using Elac UB5s.
Like the aesthetics right off. Nice looking build quality, and price point. The under the hood components look pretty nice. Seems like great bang for the buck.
Sean...correct me if you feel I'm wrong. You mention this Emotiva power amp producing a certain "sound". Would you agree a preamp produces more of the tone signature than a power amp?
Pretty much loving the A-300. It's mated with the PT-100 preamp and Klipsch RP-600M's. With a powered sub, it fills a large room with no hint of running out of gas. To tame the brightness of the Klipsch's, I keep the treble at -3 dB. I just ordered the Schiit Loki to more accurately balance out the brightness of the Klipsch's than the more broad tone control method.
I listen to music more than toan audio 'system.' After about a month, I'm totally satisfied. The only change will be the Loki.
As NASA would say, I've landed in the "stable 1" attitude.
PS: You were right about the fans. I keep the amp behind closed doors in an equipment cabinet. For me, they run *a lot*
My first amp. I upgraded from an AVR. I use the preouts on my AVR and send my L/R channels to the amp. Noticeable improvement in sound. If you’re on the fence about separates, this is a cheap way to find out what a separate amp has to offer. Also, I’ve never heard the fans.
Same here, I love my AVR but I also do a good amount of music listening. The A-300 gives my towers a bit more life whenever I decide to switch over to stereo listening. Good starter amp!
Hi do you think this emotive would be nice to use with my Denon X6500h AV Reciever?
adam pruitt sure would.
Another great review, as a starting point for high end audio $399 is a no brainer. Emotiva has established a good reputation for producing quality products. 150 watts is a good amount of power. Because you are getting that full 150 watts. An AVR or receiver can't put a beefed up power supply with all the other stuff jammed in there. If you want a better pre-amp used is always an option. You want to go to home theater you add a 5 channel amp for a 7.1 system. There's always options.
I have tested this amp and I agree whit all you say about it. I had it for a couple months with a pair of elac UB5 and I didn't like it so much. It´s a good, solid and powerful amp, but my taste it´s going to other direction. I sold it. Thank you again for your trusty and honest reviews. Greetings from Guadalajara, Mexico!
Really enjoy your videos man. I always learn a bit when I watch. You have a great presentation style and knowledge bass
Great review. Thanks. My take-away is that the SA3 PA3 IOTA combo equals-out the power advantage the A-300 has while retaining the advances of neutrality. I'm thinking my presence would be the IOTA stack.
Thank you very much,
I'm starting to prepare myself for, what is for me a very expensive endeavor into a separate amp, that I'm thinking to install it behind and old Marantz AV receiver.
I'm starting to understand the descriptions better.
Thank you very much for your work!
I have much more learning to do🤓
Awesome. So grateful for this review. I'm thinking about purchasing the Wharfedale Linton Anniversary speakers which are described as having a bit of a rolled off top end and a warmer tone. I think this amp might be perfect for it. A tad bit on the bright side of neutral and not adding to that warm tone. PERFECT! Thank you ZERO FIDELITY! Now time to purchase all the components to what will be my first 'audiophile' system. Unfortunately the A-300 isn't in stock right now. But eventually I plan to have it all together.
Is there even a better amplifier for someone like you describe? I am that guy who wants big open and powerful for metal and electronic. I own this amp and I do like it, but is there anything worth spending money on to upgrade ?? I was thinking Parasound A21+, but is it even worth it (@ 8x the price)??
Great review as usual. I really enjoy your reviews. Just a suggestion, how about a video not reviewing equipment, but the music you use to test them. We get a little sniglet of sound in every review and to tell you the truth, some of it sounds really good. I'm always open to music suggestions and I'm sure others are as well.
Watching this review on my TV with A-300 driving my stereo speakers 😎 Love it! 🥰 Great review! 👍
This is the response I received on July 28, 2020 regarding the fan noise issue, although it appears to focus on chirping and not fan noise based on the whirling of the blades: “We have modified the power supply fan drive circuit so that the voltage to the fan doesn't kick in until high enough to actually turn the fan. (before, the voltage would go to the fan long before it could start the fan motor and so the fans sat there and mechanically chirped instead of turning). Therefore, if you purchase a NEW A-300 the fan noise issue has been resolved.”
Excellent review! I have an older Emotiva UPA-200 2-Channel Amplifier. It has similar fans that only turn on if you blast music for a while. Compared to the First Watt F7, the Emotiva is definitely brighter and harder sounding. The Emotiva is still an excellent value, a mid-fi amp that I would highly recommend to anyone on a tighter budget. The First Watt is about ten times the price, but it is certainly in another league when it comes to refinement.
How this amp compares to XTZ A300 and parasound 2125 V2. your thoughts?
Hi Sean how would this one compare to xtz edge A2-300 that you've also recently reviewed? Which one is better, what would be your pick? Thanks
Hey Sean, this may be a stupid question. But what is it amp it sound characteristics? Is it the capacitors, filters, transistors, Etc. Or is it the way the wiring schematic is done. The reason I ask is if I recap my amplifier or replaced transistors will it change the sound? Thanks so much for all your wonderful videos
Great job. My choice was down to this Emotiva and the Crown XLS 1002. I went with the crown mostly due to the power. Did I make the right choice? I think it sounds great but my ears are 50 years old and I've played guitar and music much too loud over the years.
Your 3rd sentence answered it ;)
Love them! I have paired them with Parasound P6 and Klipsch RP280F. Awesome!
Ive had the TA100 A300 combo for 3 years now. I get amps to demo and review all the time.
Rotel 1582
AS1200
Anthem STR
Hegel H95
All of the above are more detailed, have better imaging and sound stage. But not a big enough difference to intice me to upgrade for the cost.
Maybe the Hegel for improvement for price, just.
It's very transparent and has nice relaxed sound, great imaging and realistic sound. Definitely not bright but maybe a little thin in upper mid.
It's is ver non fatiguing, I listen to hours and nod off to sleep.
Plus has all the functions. DAC, Tuner, phonostage, lots of inputs and outputs.
Best amp for the money!
Did you find as 1200 not as good as hegel h95?
@@enjoyunreality Hegel was more detailed, clear and transparent. plus it had a nice vibe. Good for a small room and sensitive speakers.
The AS1200 and 2200 are more punchy, aggressive and possibly better for speakers that are a little dull in the upper mids.
@@toranarama1 thanks 😊
I have this never looked back drives my Klipsh beautifully
Hi I got a question? I have a Denon X6500h AV receiver would recommend this with my Denon receiver? I have 3.1 Klipsch Setup with a RP-600C Center Channel Speaker and two Klipsch RP-160M Bookshelf Speakers and a Klipsch R-112SW Subwoofer
Great review Sean. Thanks for sharing.
Sean, I had planned on utilizing this amp for a small to medium sized room. I have 600m's which as you know are a little bright. To counter that, would you recommend going with Iotavx sa3 instead since these speakers are not power hungry. I like a neutral to a very slightly bright response. Should I consider something else?
How does the Emotiva compare to A2-300 (XTZ) or XLS-2502 (Crown). Same price range - different power. Sound?
Thanks for the review. I just purchased a Marantz NR1200 and it is great. It is a unique item given it is an avr and stereo all in one with dual sub woofer and LR pre outs. I am using it in a 2.1 stereo configuration. I am running Paradigm Monitor 3 V.3 speakers and two subwoofers (Polk Audio PSW10). My question is, will I hear an improvement if I purchase the A -300 to drive my speakers and connect it using the pre outs from the NR1200? Is it worth jumping to 150 WPC at 8 Ohms from the NR1200’s 75 WPC at 8 ohms? I also have a set of Paradigm Monitor 9 V. 1 speakers that I was considering using instead of the Paradigm Monitor 3 speakers. I want to ensure that if I make the purchase for the A-300, I will hear a difference. Thanks in advance....
I consider the lack of comparing this to the Crown XLS-2502 that you and Steve just reviewed a miss. Can you comment on the differences and preferences for us?
Good one. Im starting to lean on the Tekton speakers do to efficiency. That way I can mess with tubes since class d are not a good match for these.
It's not in the same price range at all.
@@Gary_M Right, my mistake.
There is no absolute with power and gear matching.
Been using a 8 watts single ended tube integrated and I am still amazed at how it drives my 23 years old 85db sealed box Sony SS-m3.
also using a year old emotiva A-500 on full range pioneer speakers and it is a very quiet warmish to my ears nice sounding amplifier.
nice work Mr Sean and thank you for keeping posting reviews it is appreciated and a great distraction from these sorry ass recent events.
T.
Love the intro. But,,, your underlying enthusiasm is well showing through.
Thanks for doing this Sean. I bought the A-150 and PT-100 preamp and pretty happy with my first steps into more of an audiophile rig and separates. Paired it with the Elac UNIF UB5s and quite satisfied for the price. Elac's really deserve the A-300 but on a budget :( Also Schiit Modi DAC and 15" DIY Dayton Ultimax sealed sub with 1,000 amp. Nice little setup but more of bedroom system for most of your viewers :)
Sweet! Yeah, I forgot to mention how well this amp matches to ELAC's more affordable options.
Great review. I have a pair of Triangle BR03 speakers and a Topping E30 DAC that can be used as preamplifier. I want to change my old amplifier. In your opinion, which power amplifier gives the best match, IOTAVX PA3 or EMOTIVA BasX A-300?
Still waiting for the Emotiva BasX TA-100 review :D
Hi, very nice review. Can you tell me something...I have Marantz SR5008 using pre outs with Marantz PM8005 in power amp mode. I have speakers Klipsch RP 600M, and Pioneer N50AE streamer. What you think, will be any difference adding Emotiva 300 instead Pm8005?
Ty for answer...
Hi did u buy this power amp? I have the same situation... @marko weiss
Agree, it has a very clean design, hopefully it sounds same good.
ZF, would you personally choose the Cambridge AXR100 Receiver over this unit, because of the warmer sound?
When plugged into the AC switch on a preamp does the A-300 power up ready to go? Or, do I have to walk over to the amp an hit that button?
Hello! If I add the BasX A-300 to my Denon 8500H, am I going to get an immediate audible improvement in sound ? My speakers are B&W 603's (new ones). Or you would suggest the Emotiva Gen -3 amps over this one for my Denon 8500H ? Thanks much.
Hi Sean, I have a topic for you. I have never had a desktop system because I never spent enough time at home at my desk to ever set one up for near field listening. How things change, now I only work from home on my desk top :( So I set up a desk top system now. Who else has done this, what did they choose, how is it working for people, like it, hate it? Are the speakers you had working for near field or are they better when far away? Surprised they working better for one application Vs the other
How does this compare to the Crown Pro XLS 1002?
Yes I was just going to ask this!
I have same question..plz reply
I'm torn between to 2 also!
Ugh I just got the xls1002 and I can’t stand the hiss that I hear :( returning for sure
Hey, great review for the emotiva. Would you recommend this for the iotavx sa3? This would bring the watts to 200.
Hmm. My knee-jerk reaction is that the PA3 would be the better tonal match, but if you want to try out the Emotiva, it's worth doing so long as you live in an area where you can return it (in case ya dont like it).
Hi Sean. Thanks for the review. It was very helpful. Just one question. You said that the emotiva had a high damping factor and would work well with polk tsi speakers. I have Polk ati a9's and nothing I've got sounds good with them except an old school antique Harman Kardon amp. I couldn't figure out why, but wondered if it was the damping factor. Both Denon and Onkyo Amps i purchase didn't do the job. Do you think the emotiva would work well with them?
Did you mean RTI A9s? If so did you find out because i have been thinking about buying those speakers.
@@sketch334 i would not recommend it. I have not been happy with them since i got them 3 years ago. I just fixed then myself this last weekend since polk tech support only suggestion for my issues were to increase wattage. I borrowed a friend 400w per channel crown amp and it sounded even worse then the other 5 amps i tried. The polks are poorly designed and cheaply made. Only 18 gauge wire. The woofers were wired out of phase. The solder joints were not very good. I replace wiring to 12 guage OFC and wired then correctly. Now they sound good. Now using the first amp i was using. I would recommend buying something from a different manufacture. There were other issues with how it was built.
@@ddtkills Yea im looking at buying some elacs.
What is the music you play in between talks ? Nice instrumental sound i heard...
"I consider the lack of comparing this to the Crown XLS-2502 that you and Steve just reviewed A MISS." says Brian.
The 2502 is now in Canada. Never compared the two.
@Fat Rat Hey how are you? Do Canadians eat kimchi? Pancakes and maple syrup sounds nicer; probably less acid and easier to clean off the amplifier too.
@@ZeroFidelity Was curious, if you were to choose between the two, what would be your choice?
@@ZeroFidelity Any notes on them to compare? General impression from memory?
Schiit Saga pre with the tube is a great match. Ran that with an A-300 for a couple years. Very enjoyable and satisfying for the money. $775 for the combo is a great value. You can experience 70% to 75% of a much higher end system for a fraction of the price. Pairs well with many different speakers. I liked the Elac B6.2s. Also very affordable. Very decent system minus a source for about $1100. I am running the Saga now with a low power tube amp and some beautiful circa 1985 Cornwalls. An incredible combination! Thanks, Sean. Review was spot on.
I have a similar setup (a-300, saga+ and elac ub-5) and agree that it delivers a very satisfying, quality, listening experience. I’ve had the emotiva for 4 years and would love to hear Sean’s thoughts on a logical upgrade under $1k. Is it even worth considering upgrading under $1k or wait till the budget is enough to afford the next tier. Sean, any thoughts on this?
My denon 3600h is about 80 watts all channels driven and 105 watts two channels according to audioholics. Would this amp make my klipsch rp8000f sound better or louder? I’m new to this and everyone tells me I should get an amp
Hi Sean, what would be your go to amplifier paired with Klipsch Cornwall IV ? I am not a fan of tubes....please help!
This question is for anyone that watched all the way to the end ;) What happens to the dampening factor on the IOTAVX PA3 & SA3 combo when bridged? Sorry not sure where to ask this, I come form the wild world of car audio if you bridge a 2ch class A/B amp @ 8ohms you end up with a 4ohm load and 1/2 the damping factor. I feel like the PA3/SA3 combo is still a fair comparison to the BasX A-300 because you still need a pre amp with the Emotiva and the the $900 IOTAVX stack would be rated at about the same power driving 8ohm speakers
Question, this would be a pretty good mono block amp. With that said, can this amp be bridged safely? Wonder why companies don't inform customers one way or the other?
What amp do you think would be the best match to buchardt s300, xtz edge a2 300 or emotiva basx a300? Thankfull for your opinions? //B
Thanks for reviewing Emotiva products, I just purchased an ERC-4 CD player from them, like it a lot, I think in general, it fits into the character of this amp also, high on the bright side, middle nice, deep base. Would you be reviewing that in the future? Also, nice feet, a perk of working from home.......
Have not heard this one. But the Emotiva PA-1 Class D amplifier is very endearing. Mmm nice power. Really solid, dimensional, slightly sweet.
Love your channel -- super fun listening to your reviews! Would the LRS work well with this?
Amazing review! Thanks Sean 👍
For it being a class a/b it has pretty high THD specs though, whats your take on that? Thinking about going with yamaha as series or denon pma series over this but not sure yet.
What does class A/B have to do with it? Look at a graph not a single number.
@@carlosoliveira-rc2xt class a/b amps typically have lower thd, and alot of its competition does have lower thd, so point being why couldnt they match the competition.
They need to make a three channel version for home theater
They did
@@alex1up599 nice thanks for the heads up
I wonder how this amp would sound with Schiit Freya + preamp? Would that even be a good match?
Nice review! Like your comment on "sound" (hiss or humming) coming from the transformers especially of inexpensive amps. This is most annoying to me and I already returned 3 amps due to this.
BTW what about pairing the amp with a Pro-ject pre box s2+?
And how does it drive Emotiva’s own speakers? Is there any special matching between their components?
How does it compare to a $1200 to $2000 class receiver? I have an Aventage and I love the sound quality, but it could use more power to keep up with my lower sensitivity speakers.
So is the A2 similar to the a300 or is their a noticeable difference?
Hi, ive got a question. Im thinking of changing either my speakers or amp. Currently have the b&w 607 with 608 sub and marantz pm5005. I have no complaints but i want to have a taste of a step up.
Would changing my marantz to an emotiva a300 plus ifi itube2 sound much better or should i focus on speaker upgrade? Thanks
Can you also review the anthem MCA 225 or 325 amplifiers and the emotiva dr3 amp? I’m currently running an anthem receiver with b&w 603 towers. I’d like to add an exerenal amp but can’t decide between the anthem or emotiva. Thanks!! Great reviews!!
still using my emotiva xpa-2 which i bought 7 years a go. still using big toroid and linear power supply unlike their new products. but it's good to see they don't use switching power supply in some of their amps.
I have a dac/h'phone amp XDuoo XD05 Plus as my main source, and can feed line out through a pot into a power amp (currently doing this into my Sherwood Newcastle R-725 whose pre has gone screwy) So BasX A2 or an ex-demo MF M2si -both around £500 mark in UK?
Hi,
I want to upgrade my system with Emotiva BasX A3, with my Denon AVR-X4700H & Polk Reserve R600 & R400 for my front stage. Is this combination will be helpful to improve the sound quality, dynamics & shifting the load off from AVR that will improve the surround speakers R100 & Atmos speakers performance.
What is Your advice, your suggestion will be great help for me.
I have a pair of Vienna Acoustic Bach speakers that say 6 ohms....will this emotiva power amp be okay for these speakers?
It will handle 6 Ohms well. Actually it is how low impedances go in some speakers. A safe low level is 2 Ohm. 1 Ohm is pushing it a little. Check the frequency response/impedance of your speaker.
I plan on buying either an Emotiva or an Iota power amp soon so thanks for a very handy review..!!
I will have an indepth comparsion very soon 😆 with speaker paring reccomendation thats subjective somewhat . IOTA STACK VS Emotiva STACK ! 😆
Of course you'll do the floorstander review with this amp...👍
Sean, how would you compare this to the xtz edge class d amp? They both have about the same power and are close to the same price.
Figured somebody would ask about that. XTZ = similar sound, but better. No noise at all. Even clearer and more refined. Edit: Hope you're doing alright up there.
Zero Fidelity Thanks! Exactly my question as well :)
Btw. In the same league is the Nord One MP NC252. Would love to see your opinion on that one.
www.nordacoustics.co.uk/product-page/nord-one-mp-nc250-stereo-power-amp-in-silver
@@ZeroFidelity Yup, I'm that guy, always asking the obvious. Getting the itch for a bit more power for the A2's, but not sure if class D is the right way to go. Trust you're well too. All's good in the epicenter of the Covid-19 pandemic in VA. Only thing that's changed is there are fewer people on the roads. Makes the commute much better.
It was good to me but the fan noise was the deal breaker. It was housed in an open cabinet, but I do live in a desert climate, so hotter than others, perhaps. Regardless of the fan, I thought the unit was good. I used the 2017ish version, for the record.
I was in Las Vegas with the A-300 in a ckosed cabinet and the fans only turned on once in the 2-1/2 years I used it there. It scared ghe crap out of me as they almost squealed. I don't think I would have kept if this was a regular thing.
How is this compare to Cambridge audio AXR85/100? Which one is better?
What about the thump when it is turned on.is that normal. Mine doesn't do it all the time.
Nice one. Obviously interesting to me since I have the BasX A-150. Bought my first passive speaker system in November and ran out of money for the amp (all my other components cost a lot more than it, more than $1500 each except for the Project Streamer)
With horn loaded Triangles floorstanders I have to agree on the more livelier presentation which I can bear, thogh not always enjoy fully.
But for the bass I was expecting it to be faster, instead it's a bit ( really just a bit. It also works some times, imo. Eg. there was this Flecktones album where Wooten's bass felt very realistic) too bloaty.
Sure, the BassX 300 must be better in every way except for that fan. Hate fans
Plan is to shoot directly for dual Schiit Aegirs when I can afford them...
I know fans are cheap as chips, but would a larger heatsink and better ventilation really have blown the budget?
Emotiva a300 vs denon pme 600ne which one would you choose considering both go for around $399?
Emotiva is almost 4 times more powerful. The Denon is a integrated stereo receiver & emotiva is just a power amplifier. For emotiva you will need a pre amp. It suggest you to go for emotiva as the company tries to bring hifi audio to regular people unlike Denon & mazantz.
I have the emotiva pre/amp stack with Elac ub52. Now I am heavily looking at a Iotavx pa3/sa3 stack. I can't seem to find anything that can compare for $1K or am I missing something?
Right on man. Be waiting for a good review on these. Thank you
I have tried alot of poweramps the last two years,best one so far is the rotel rb 991 (2x200w 8ohm)
Tomorrow im picking up rotel rb 1070 (2x125w 8ohm).
Do you know these amps and will you say the emotiva basx300 is better?
Same question I have. I have a RB-1050 and looking to add another, or a RB-1070 for a second set of speakers. Was wondering if this would be a good alternative. Or is it a bit better. Or is the Rotel a bit better. Rotel list for more so is it a beefier build. Higher quality parts, or more profit to the manufacturer.
Which would generally be considered a more open sound. At this price point I wondered if I should sell the Rotel for two of these.
Or, between the two there isn’t enough difference to matter. Beautiful, unless I want matching out the fires. I could have one of each
The mechanical noise due to those stock fans are an easy fix with some Noctua slim fans.
Possibly. I can't advocate for warranty-busting modifications though. I learned my lesson years ago in an ELAC review. :D.
@@ZeroFidelity Emotiva has an upgrade kit for fixing that. I just bought mine a couple of months ago, that noise appeared in an hour or so and killed me, I googled the problem finding out that it's very common, called the importer and they fixed it for free adding a new fan controller/temperature sensor or smth like that. Never heard it after that.
Will hooking this BasX A-300 up to my AVR's pre-out sound as good as an integrated stereo amplifier like the Yamaha s701 or Denon DRA-800H?
I wonder, if you change the fans to something like noctau, vibration absorbing mounting and speed controller instead of on/off then the sound from the fan chould be a absolut minimum.
Hi. Great review and opinion on it. I would like to know if you can give me the difference between parasound and emotiva in term of sound reproduction for about same budget. For example the 2125v2 vs this one ?. thanks
Hey, I saw this and became curious about the 2125 V2. Differences over the Emotiva A 300 would be: the 2125 runs cooler( 2 heatsinks instead of one), has more connection options and turn on options, and can be run as a monoblock. It can be connected to 2 pairs of speakers as well. As for sound, I've heard neither, but going by this review and others on the 2125, it will have a warmer sound to the A 300's more forward presentation.
I think it's one of those situations where you pay more and get more with the 2125.
Stephen Sharkey I’m considering the 2125v2 because of the additional speaker hookup.
However I can’t find any reviews on the 2125v2 where have u found any?
@@mattfischer8413 i have one for over a year from now. Very clean. Reproduce exactly what you send him.
Transpenrency and warmth are the first thing I haved noticed. For the price it's hard to beat. Very good Sound quality. I have a good pre amp and a very good DAC also. The parasound drive like a champion my pair of Focal Aria 926 and totem Rainmaker
yan garzon have u heard the emotive to compare?
I like the break down you did. Well explained
I got B&W 603 s2 (2002 Version) tower speakers as my mains and I run a 7.3.4 from Marantz AVR 6014 and a monoprice 50watt 2 channel amp for 2 of my 4 atmos speakers as that 6014 is a 11 channel Pre 9 channel amp AVR. That was great until I started getting into listening to music on the system, LP's and HD audio
So my question is would swapping my monoprice amp with this one then letting it drive my L-R fronts instead of the atmos speakers would add anything to my music listening? When I listen I do it Direct so just the left and right speakers.
Do you recommend with sansui au999 with infinity kappa7.1? If not what will work better