Musical Fidelity A1 clone review: so good, so musical!

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  • Опубликовано: 25 май 2024
  • Doge says "much fidelity, much musical" :)
    Class A clone of the output stage of Musical Fidelity A1 produced by BRZHifi.
    Check out my review and tour of internals.
    As usual, ask me about things I probably forgot to mention - in comments.
    You can get it from ebay or ali:
    www.ebay.com/itm/326123006505
    www.aliexpress.com/item/10050...
    As it was with DartZeel, I got it from Funkenya - it was delivered via parcel service and well protected with foam in the box.
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Комментарии • 234

  • @pablodepeche
    @pablodepeche 2 месяца назад +12

    Great review again, just straight forward to what we like to know. So please don’t change the way you are filming your videos, they are excellent!!
    Thank you!!!!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +5

      Thank you, that's really motivating!!

    • @badd99
      @badd99 2 месяца назад +9

      I agree! More clone reviews it's awesome!!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +3

      @@badd99 Thank you!

  • @deepcuttabeats356
    @deepcuttabeats356 29 дней назад

    Bought this after seeing your video and I am extremely impressed and satisfied. Thanks for guiding me to this gem of an affordable amplifier! Vocals have never sounded better in my room.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  29 дней назад +2

      Thank you! It's a steal, I'm glad you enjoy it!

  • @foblivio
    @foblivio 2 месяца назад +11

    Hifi Zone: you just made me order one! A class A amp has always been on my bucket list. Great review.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      Lol my fault entirely :)
      I think this is the cheap and great entry point to class A. I'm wondering how this compares to cheap jlh1969 amps, some guys say they are nice but not really transparent. This one is nice and transparent :)

    • @MasterofPlay7
      @MasterofPlay7 2 месяца назад +4

      @@k4syx when are you going to get the fm300a clone?

    • @CarlVanDoren61
      @CarlVanDoren61 2 месяца назад +1

      ​@@k4syx
      Class A runs 🔥
      Leave top lid off

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      @@MasterofPlay7 when budget permits. It's on my bucket list along with 255 pre or something similar

    • @MasterofPlay7
      @MasterofPlay7 2 месяца назад +2

      @@k4syx but I heard the fm255 will have ground loop hum when paired with the fm300a amp

  • @ilanspiro1645
    @ilanspiro1645 2 месяца назад +4

    Another great review of an audio gem.
    Many thanks:)

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Thank you!

  • @user-qu4dm3vr4p
    @user-qu4dm3vr4p Месяц назад +4

    I hope your channel continues to gain subscriptions, i think you are providing a good service :-)
    Im going to buy a clone and compare it to what I have without spending shitloads of cash.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@user-qu4dm3vr4p Thank you!

  • @michaelwright1602
    @michaelwright1602 2 месяца назад +3

    Thanks for these videos! This looks like a sweet little piece for very little money. I think I will pick one up. Thanks again.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Thank you!

  • @martinvidartnovo8441
    @martinvidartnovo8441 9 дней назад +2

    Thank you very much for your dedication, you have compared it with other class A amps

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  9 дней назад

      @@martinvidartnovo8441 not really, just to the other amps that I own...

    • @martinvidartnovo8441
      @martinvidartnovo8441 8 дней назад

      Thanks, I have several class A set amps diy (300b, 45, 71A, VT25) because of the cost of the triodes I started experimenting with semiconductors I made a jlh hood 1969, jean hiraga 8 watt called le monstre great amplifier I bought in ebay a monarchy sm70. Your comments on the mf A1 clone caught my attention, again thank you very much.

  • @markbradbury5266
    @markbradbury5266 2 месяца назад +2

    Great reviews ! keep them coming !

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Thank you!

  • @ruslanmulyk8601
    @ruslanmulyk8601 2 месяца назад +1

    Looks solid and well built. Nice review. I am building two tpa3255 mono board amplifier. I am happy to see inner details to understand how to place boards inside the case. This particular case is great indeed. I enjoy it small form factor. Looking for something similar but the black version.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Happy to help. I like TPA3255, it has potential. I wonder where we will be with class D in a few years.

    • @ruslanmulyk8601
      @ruslanmulyk8601 2 месяца назад +1

      @k4syx I am going to measure my mono tpa3255 on 8 om load, but I expect to have pure 110w before clipping. For me, it is more than enough!

  • @ancientalien815
    @ancientalien815 Месяц назад +1

    Mine will be here in 2 days. Im excited!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      Please do share you thoughts here, ok? Thanks!

  • @ancientalien815
    @ancientalien815 Месяц назад

    Excellent review!!!

  • @net_news
    @net_news 2 месяца назад +1

    great review!! Looks like a great deal!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Thank you! It is! :)

  • @fernandoleitao382
    @fernandoleitao382 2 месяца назад +2

    Great video, keep up
    Thank you very much.

  • @neps4th
    @neps4th 2 месяца назад +3

    I have been bi and tri- amping my audio systems since the 70's. I would bet this amp is as good as many of the smaller ones I have utilized on the upper end. Of course I use an electronic cross-over for this. 7 watt triode amps work also.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Upper mids and treble, yes. Stunning!

  • @garymalone547
    @garymalone547 2 месяца назад +1

    Great review. Cheers.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Thanks!

  • @rontoolsie
    @rontoolsie 2 месяца назад +15

    Also...not being a 1:1 clone is actually a plus...the original A1 integrated amp had a great design but was built with the very cheapest of parts and insufficient heat sinking. I think the original designer was miffed when he saw how much MF downgraded the parts quality when the amp was commercially released.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +3

      Yes when I saw re-edition of this amp I couldn't help but wonder why would they put bad stuff from the 80s back inside now. I would at least upgrade parts that are better and available now. Well, I guess there will be market for A1 modding soon :)

    • @vespass225
      @vespass225 2 месяца назад

      For sure, and same thing with speakers´ crossovers! 3 years ago I bought the so hyped Wharfedale Lintons, and was exceptionally underwhelmed and disappointed. Severely lacking high frequency resolution and detail, and actually ridiculously lousy spatial qualities. Airy ? No, not at all. My 40 years old Heybrook HB1:s just killed them, which was not a matter of nuances, but so stark it took merely some seconds to realize. Of course I started surfing the internet for similar experiences as mine, and soon found not only that, but a knowledgeable guy who had done some experimenting ( Mike at HEAD Quarter Acoustics ) with upgrading crossover components qualitywise in his Lintons. The transformation of these Lintons, after having upgraded all capacitors and all resistors from cheapest of the cheap China parts, to average or high quality ones, was so profound that my first spontaneous thought was that this must have been the speaker performance the designer originally signed off as "Mission accomplished", and that the purchasing department at the same company then destroyed by swapping overall for cheap crap components.

    • @triode1212
      @triode1212 2 месяца назад +5

      I believe the designer was Tim de Paravicini.

    • @mrcarpentersc
      @mrcarpentersc 2 месяца назад +2

      Bean counters ruin everything.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@mrcarpentersc life :)

  • @DrNoahBoddy004
    @DrNoahBoddy004 Месяц назад +1

    Umm, krasavets!
    Lyubov moya!
    Umm! I simply adore your voice… it’s such a joy when you’re talking! I could listen to you for many hours by the candlelight.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@DrNoahBoddy004 Lol thanks but I'm not russian :D
      (Though you're not the first one to make that mistake, there has to be something with my accent. Do I sound like all these actors playing russians in the movies? ;) )

    • @DrNoahBoddy004
      @DrNoahBoddy004 Месяц назад

      @@k4syx either way Xa3anna!
      I thank God, and your parents on such velvet seduction of such amazing, pitch perfect sweetness. (I must remind myself not to lose my senses in such rhapsodic hypnosis)…. Continue working , my joy. I will always stay out of the way.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@DrNoahBoddy004 xD I will!

    • @MrHesmovedon
      @MrHesmovedon 26 дней назад

      ​@@k4syx
      Nope !
      You sound like a Polish guy with a terrible accent.
      Also grammatically incorrect too often.
      The guy who's either too lazy or too greedy to get proper English lessons from native speakers.
      Get at least a part of the "Cayin's deal" profit and invest in your language skills.
      Please.
      The videos and the stuff you're reviewing are pretty interesting, but linguistically... 🤦
      Just unbearable 🤷

  • @MarkEdwards-u9p
    @MarkEdwards-u9p 10 дней назад

    Terrific Power Amp, better sound quality than my long held Quad 99/909 amplifier. Drives my Harbeth P3ESR speakers very well. Your review is spot on, many thanks!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  10 дней назад

      Thank you! It's absolute gem!

  • @benmast3r865
    @benmast3r865 2 месяца назад +2

    Great video, just ordered one. I'm interested in bypassing the Volume pots, could you maybe do an instruction Video? That would be awesome

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +3

      I can if I'll find the time. It's really easy as you just need to disconnect two plugs from reach pot and connect them together with dip8 sized pins - like these used for computer mainboard jumpers. But I will try to find time for you :)

  • @RanTausi
    @RanTausi 22 дня назад +1

    Thank you sir !

  • @mikec8763
    @mikec8763 2 месяца назад +1

    I owned the original A1 when the company was called British Fidelity back in about 1987. It was an all time favorite! If this sounds anything like the original, it would be a joy to hear again!
    I trust your ears since getting a D5 pro and am sure this is well worth it. Like many of the originals, mine went up in smoke. The new A1 is said to have solved the overheating problems.
    Thanks again for all your reviews!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Thank you!
      I'd risk stating that this may sound better because it omits cheap pre section of original. I seriously have no idea why on earth they're again using tl072 opamps in 2024, that's like crippling the device on purpose for nostalgia

    • @mikec8763
      @mikec8763 2 месяца назад +2

      @@k4syx The original had the best midrange around as you've noted. Circuit was designed by Tim de Paravicini of Quad and EAR/ Yoshino fame... everything he put out had that clean holographic and harmonically rich and complex midrange. The phonostage in the original A1 was also first rate. If the clone is like the original you will find that little amp capable of driving just about anything...it really swings alot of current like most class A amps.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      @@mikec8763 yes these two things (mids and imaging) are standing out here IMHO. Great little amp!

    • @rontoolsie
      @rontoolsie 2 месяца назад +2

      It was only called British Fidelity in the US, since the name Musical Fidelity was already registered by a small company in America.
      And in the UK, all Kenwood products were branded as Trio, so they would not be confused with the Kenwood who made kitchen appliances.

    • @razisn
      @razisn 2 месяца назад

      The company was NEVER called British Fidelity. BF was a a brand name used for a short time by MF for the North America markets..

  • @quma001
    @quma001 2 месяца назад +4

    Great review, I have the JLH 1969 amp in the same case and now I think about ordering the A1 clone too 😅

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      Wow I was thinking about JLH - they seem popular, though I've read someone stating that they are not that clean and transparent, though nicely musical. What's your opinion on your amp?

    • @quma001
      @quma001 2 месяца назад +1

      @@k4syx Interesting, in my system JLH is somewhat neutral and clean. Not overly airy though. I was hoping for a bit more smooth treble. However, I run it directly through an ifi DAC with volume control, not through a separate preamplifier. Still thinking about to get a Musical Paradise mp-701 preamp, but can't afford it at the moment.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@quma001 Funkenya recommended me MP-701 as the preamp for DartZeel clone I got some time ago.
      So, it seems that there's truth in JLH not being transparent and airy. Try this clone then, it's excellent!

    • @quma001
      @quma001 Месяц назад +1

      @@k4syx Ok, I also bought the A1 (of course I did 😄) It was running for about 30 hours and I'm very impressed. (Although It was already good from the beginning.) Musical, full, smooth, yet airy. Bass is deep and pleasant but on the soft side. I can imagine it will be even better with a high quality preamp, but it is already at about 85% of my 3.5k Pathos integrated. 👍

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      @@quma001 And it will be even better. Tiny, amazing amp. I'm glad you enjoy it! :)
      I'm currently preparing two preamps for testing, two clones (obviously) that could work with MF and DartZeel clones ;)

  • @RickP2040
    @RickP2040 Месяц назад +1

    All new Apurna Audio Gear from France is the very best gear I've ever heard period ! The very best of both worlds

    • @dereklo5716
      @dereklo5716 Месяц назад

      Dear Hi Fi Zone, thanks for the review. I have ordered one and enjoying it tremendously.😂

  • @eleftheriospadeloglou6596
    @eleftheriospadeloglou6596 2 месяца назад +1

    Great Thank you🤩

  • @moussaobeid
    @moussaobeid Месяц назад +1

    BTW, thanks for the great work l!!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@moussaobeid Thank you!

  • @pablodepeche
    @pablodepeche 2 месяца назад +3

    I have to say, please continue with the A class clones, see if you can find something powerful enough for your Martins or my Epicon 😅

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Always on the lookout for something that can feed my power hungry ML beasts :)

  • @borschec4164
    @borschec4164 2 месяца назад +1

    a few years ago I bought from aliexpress another 20w class A, it was called A6, and it has like a 2000 damping factor. I couldn't compare it to a lot back then, but it sounded really nice and poweful but I sold it after a while. Looking to get another one of these class a cheap amps, ar maybe 2 as suggested in a comment. You could also try that one and compare it to see if that damping factor makes a difference. Thanks and please do more of these. Also curious about the FW F7

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Well I have two of them and both are brilliant. I'm planning on reviewing more pre and power amp clones as this got me really interested, seems like a really big bang for a buck. Two "blind" shots and two superb amps!

  • @klausfreis7202
    @klausfreis7202 2 месяца назад +1

    Thanks for the great review.
    How does the Sabaj A30a compare to this one?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      Good question. Sabaj includes DAC inside and it's like 3 times more expensive. And powerful, 150W AFAIR vs 20W. Soundwise, A30A is more precise: and MF clone has these gorgeous mids.
      It's very hard to compare them as they are very different, I would need some kind of table and scores in different categories:)

  • @gilpena9591
    @gilpena9591 17 дней назад

    Great! Subscribed and I think I might just get one.!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  17 дней назад +1

      Go get it and thank me again later ;D

  • @grhaggerty
    @grhaggerty Месяц назад

    would this amp power a speaker that requires sensitivity: 90 dB. impedance: 8 ohms ?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      Yes, that's a good pairing

  • @MarkSWilliams27
    @MarkSWilliams27 Месяц назад

    I see a problem in that the US voltage is often approaching 120VAC and the amp is only rated to be used with 110 VAC,

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      All of them have some input tolerance, but it's always good to ask the store. I think some of the guys here in the comments that got it are from the States

  • @lanx0003
    @lanx0003 2 месяца назад

    Great discovery. I wonder how is this compared with Smsl vmv A1 10 watts?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      No idea, I haven't heard A1 so I won't try to guess... :(

  • @tomeksiwiec6300
    @tomeksiwiec6300 4 дня назад +1

    hi, what speakers you use for your auditions of these chi-fi amps? how about the bass from this A1?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  4 дня назад

      Martin Logan Ascent I, Motion 35XTi, Motion 15i , Dali Ikon 2 MK2, sometimes Dali Opticon 2 and Wharfedale Diamond 12.3 (these are rare guest as I always need to carry them upstairs).
      And bass for MF1A clone - as described in video

  • @Carl-yx1ww
    @Carl-yx1ww Месяц назад

    Mine Is on the way because of u cheers

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@Carl-yx1ww Cheers! Enjoy and share your thoughts! :)

  • @SartajAnand
    @SartajAnand Месяц назад +1

    Thanks for reviewing this and the D5 Pro. Do you think the A1 could be used to drive low-sensitivity planar headphones? Also, to start off with do you recommend the A1 or the D5 Pro? Also, do you plan to explore some clone DACs too?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      Yes A1 is splendid with my He6SEv2 - blows away all dedicated headphone amps that I've tried. And for starters I can recommend A1 (its cheaper), but bear in mind that its only 2x20W so if you have low sensitivity or difficult load speakers go for DartZeel clone. DAC clones seem like very rare breed, I've seen just a few of them as there is plenty of great delta-sigma and r2r DACs coming from China with established brands. I dont think I saw any sales for this replica DACs that I've found...

    • @SartajAnand
      @SartajAnand Месяц назад

      @@k4syx I took the plunge and got the A1. I'll update you when it makes its way here. Thanks for the nudge

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@SartajAnand yes please do, let it burn in for some time and enjoy it - and share your opinion!

  • @lunol6165
    @lunol6165 21 день назад +1

    The power amplifier works really very well, thank you!!! Can I also use this as a mono power amplifier and buy a second one for my setup (Dali Oberon 7, Bluesound Node one, Heed Elexir as a preamplifier) ​​and use these as mono power amplifiers using an adapter? What do you think? Thank you very much! LG Nicolai

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  21 день назад

      @@lunol6165 Hi! Thank you!
      Yes that's doable, to have two to use in biamping setup. There was a discussion about that about earlier in the comments!

    • @lunol6165
      @lunol6165 21 день назад +1

      @@k4syx thank you very much! Greetz

  • @cobar5342
    @cobar5342 2 месяца назад

    Very good review. MF make great gear. I agree that the volume post are best bypassed

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Good thing it's easily done and fully reversible here, so we have options.

  • @klausfreis7202
    @klausfreis7202 2 месяца назад

    Thanks for the great review.
    Do you prefer this over the Dartzeel?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      No. I'm keeping both of them. MF clone cannot power my Martin Logan electrostats. But it has these gorgeous mids that are just right with my less demanding speakers like Motion 35XTi.

  • @arte2arquiteto
    @arte2arquiteto 2 месяца назад

    What are qualities of this amp that outperforms the DartZeel amp?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      If I would be forced to pick, then only mids. DartZeel has amazing mids and this one amazing+1.
      Other than that it's very hard to compare them as DartZeel clone pulls 2x150W per channel and costs 2.5 times more.

  • @ancientalien815
    @ancientalien815 8 дней назад

    Do you know anyone who could tell if this could be modded with true xlr balanced input?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  8 дней назад

      Interesting idea! The original A1 was designed as single ended, but this is just power output stage here, so maybe, maybe?

  • @lunol6165
    @lunol6165 Месяц назад +1

    I ordered the amplifier from Ebay yesterday. Do you think it fits my setup (Heed Elexier as a preamp, Dali Oberon 7 and a Bluesound Node 1)? Thanks for your video and greetings from Germany!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      Hi!
      Thank you :)
      It'll fit your setup just fine, honestly I would say Oberons will be a bottleneck. This amp is not ashamed to perfectly drive my Martin Logan electrostats, so you'll be ready to get some better speakers in the future (with all due respect to Oberons which are great in their price range)

    • @pheunthai
      @pheunthai 27 дней назад +1

      Can I confirm that this is a power amp? I will need a premp and a dac to hook up to it?Thank you

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  27 дней назад

      @@pheunthai this is power amp but with simple volume control: so you can start with DAC and add pre later on

  • @michaelroxin348
    @michaelroxin348 2 месяца назад

    How about this vs D5 Pro for jbl 4349 speakers?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      JBL recommends 25-200W amp for these so D5PRO.

  • @JRadian
    @JRadian 9 дней назад +1

    Would the Aiyima A07 Max you reviewed sound more detailed and clear than the Musical Fidelity clone?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  8 дней назад +1

      Nope.

  • @alialamri8525
    @alialamri8525 2 месяца назад +4

    Hello when you are expecting to show us the differences between the fake cables, I can't wait to see it .. Thank you ❤

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      Soon :) I need to get a few days off to record everything I have lined up.

  • @tamayaytam
    @tamayaytam 2 месяца назад +1

    And since you stepped into the realm of class a amplifiers. I am obliged to suggest you an aleph 3 or aleph 5 amplifier. Better if you have access to first watt f7.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      I've seen Alephs and I was wondering why almost nobody buys them. Like just a few single sales here and there and the buyers comments looked like something generated by bots.
      I have a list of things that I'd like to try, but my budget has its limits :)

    • @tamayaytam
      @tamayaytam 2 месяца назад

      @@k4syx I built it from a kit. The total wasn't more than 100 dollars.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      @@tamayaytam exactly, these are great constructions that still make your speakers dance. It's fun to build them and you can tune them with higher quality parts, wiring etc. The only thing that's hard for me is diying really good looking case. I love my stuff looking great and shiny;)

  • @airlineflyergg
    @airlineflyergg 2 месяца назад +1

    Thanks for the review. Did you measure the DC offset at the output?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      3.3mV R, 4.7mV L, inputs disconnected, maximum volume set on both channels.
      Great question, thank you!

    • @airlineflyergg
      @airlineflyergg 2 месяца назад +1

      @@k4syx Those are good numbers and probably even better with inputs shorted.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@airlineflyergg Yes these are good for such simple construction. I have to measure DartZeel clone as it's using DC servo, didn't think about it earlier.

  • @maxrider2887
    @maxrider2887 19 дней назад

    Hello
    Did you compare the A1 and the JLH 1969 directly?
    What are the difference in sound? l'am thinking about buying the A1 or the JLH 1969.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  19 дней назад +1

      @@maxrider2887 no, I haven't heard JLH. I've read that it's warm, and not the last word in transparency so I went with MF A1

    • @maxrider2887
      @maxrider2887 19 дней назад

      @@k4syx you heard Fosi za3?

    • @maxrider2887
      @maxrider2887 18 дней назад +1

      @@k4syx thanks a lot

  • @zenboy2000
    @zenboy2000 Месяц назад

    If its just a power amplifier and there is no pre amp are the knobs on the front purely decorative?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      It's power amp with two pots added in line right after RCAs to attenuate input signal, so no preamp stage :)

    • @zenboy2000
      @zenboy2000 Месяц назад

      @@k4syx Good to know, thanks. Do you think it might pair well with the SOUNDARTIST LS5/9 its 86db at 8ohm?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      @@zenboy2000 should be fine, but remember this is just 20W per channel so no disco listening levels with less sensitive speakers.

  • @michelcouture7026
    @michelcouture7026 Месяц назад +1

    What speakers did you use for the evaluation.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      Martin Logan Motion 15 and 35XTi, some short listening on Dali Ikon 1 MK2. This has not enough juice for my electrostats (unfortunately)

  • @tamayaytam
    @tamayaytam 2 месяца назад +1

    Oh yeah.

  • @tamayaytam
    @tamayaytam 2 месяца назад +2

    I built a different musical fidelity a1 clone. Do you hear any humming noise while it is idle?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +3

      Dead silent, no sounds whatsoever. Also, clean and silent on max volume when idle. Probably should've mentioned that in the video, important point!

    • @tamayaytam
      @tamayaytam 2 месяца назад

      @@k4syx 👍

  • @razisn
    @razisn 2 месяца назад

    The new MF A1 has a 'direct' button that bypasses the preamp gain stage resulting in -10db gain (still plenty for modern digital sources) and provides better noise and distortion while maintaining volume control functionality. It also measures about 65C on the top plate heat sink not 70C plus. It also sounds noticeably better than the old one so please do not mix up the two in your comments, especially since you have no personal experience.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Hi! Yes I'm aware of that, though I don't understand why they put that bad pre back there. If I recall correctly bypassing it gives additional 10db to SNR. And 70plus was for fins of the clone :D (if you're referring to my video)

    • @razisn
      @razisn 2 месяца назад +1

      @@k4syx I don't know how much better SNR it provides, I don't believe it is as much as 10db. It provides 10db less gain. Fins are the heat sink on the clone, top plate is the heat sink on the non-clone.. When the system is thermally stabilised the output devices are as hot as the heat sinks by definition, so clone works hotter. The idea was to replicate the original one with as few modifications as possible to replicate the sound character of the original.

  • @TD05SSLegacy
    @TD05SSLegacy 2 месяца назад

    Are there any clone digital preamps that look promising even if you haven’t tried them?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      FM ones, if you'll search for opinions on the web, there's a few people that got them and are very happy users now. Also, MF 701 came here and there as something really good, but I haven't heard it myself

    • @TD05SSLegacy
      @TD05SSLegacy 2 месяца назад

      @@k4syx I guess my question is this… Why are all these clones only analog amplifiers? Perhaps that’s not the right term? But why don’t any of them have digital inputs? Usb, Spdif? Hdmi Arc? And no integrated DACs?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@TD05SSLegacy that's actually easy. All real hi end stuff does just one job. Amplifiers with DAC integrated are geared towards more common folk who just think about it as having more inputs. Reality is that if your serious about SQ you will pass on "free" built in DAC and get something better, dedicated. For example, many of such integrated amps are using 9016 or 9018 Sabre DACs. These were fine back in the day, but are dated now and were surpassed by any modern DAC. So if you want pure sound quality, you won't be using these internal dated chips, and hi-end manufacturers know about this. They will rather sell you separate HQ DAC than work on integrating something mediocre that can adversely affect sound quality of the whole device :)

  • @word2RG
    @word2RG 2 месяца назад

    hope you will do more chinese clone reviews 👍

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Me too! :)

  • @Gullsz
    @Gullsz 2 месяца назад

    How about a review of a first watt clone available at DIY audio?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      If I can get my hands on it, sure :)
      I'm not a pro reviewer, I just review things that I get for me or family. If I'll have one or someone nearby will get one, then sure!

  • @michelcouture7026
    @michelcouture7026 Месяц назад

    How did you identify this amp with the MF A1?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      It's quite popular build with power stage only built based on available schematic by BRZHifi. They seem to make quite a lot of different clones (not always 1:1 builds) that have patents expired

  • @robertm8518
    @robertm8518 7 дней назад +1

    What preamp do you recommend to mate with it?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  6 дней назад

      @@robertm8518 the cheaper JC2 version that I've reviewed (just one input) to have great budget simple pre, or more expensive JC2 version with multiple inputs and remote (but it alone costs more that this clone)

  • @GentielioGaming
    @GentielioGaming 2 месяца назад +1

    Maybe i missed it in the review but what preamp did you use with this amp? Any reommendations?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      None, I'm always using my DAC volume control. In my experience, all pres I had always caused loss of some very fine detail (electrostats are that transparent)

    • @razisn
      @razisn 2 месяца назад

      @@k4syx What's the input impedance of this clone and does your DAC provide proper buffering and decent volume control? My experience is that unless the DAC IS a real good pre-amp too then connecting through a proper good pre provides more body and substance to the sound even at the expense of a tiny bit of transparency (the latter would depend on the quality of the pre used).

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      @@razisn I have no info on input impedance, I can try to measure it. As for the DAC you're right on both points. I am using Gustard X26 Pro and it has excellent volume control. Regarding the body of the sound - I know what you mean, but if its not in the output of the DAC it shouldnt be added via pre - but its my opinion and sound preference is very personal so I totally get that. But that last bit of transparency lost really hurts with electrostats because when youll bypass pre you clearly hear whats missing. Its not like that with dynamic drivers, in these setups I have available I could hear the difference as these are not as fast and precise. Which makes me note that I should retest this with speakers with AMT to see if I can spot the diference then :)

    • @GentielioGaming
      @GentielioGaming Месяц назад +1

      The A1 clone is coming my way and i will use it with a ldr II volume control and propably the metrum nos quad dac or the Cherry Marashino DAC i have. My speakers are Hyperion HPS-938 speakers and some used single ended tube amps with this speaker with succes. Again i don't expect it to have slamming bass.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@GentielioGaming cool setup! How do you find ldr II? Do you like it? That's interesting device.

  • @naren.freak1c
    @naren.freak1c 2 месяца назад +1

    Cay you compare these amplifiers to the new fosi class D mono block amplifiers.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Simply put sonically these are better (both DartZeel and Musical Fidelity clones). TPA3255 with good power supply will be more powerful and energy efficient than MF, but sound quality wise both clones are better.
      And I say that being huge fan of class D, there are amazing developments happening now!

    • @naren.freak1c
      @naren.freak1c 2 месяца назад +1

      @@k4syxThanks for your answer. issues with buying clones is warranty and reliability, how was the warranty for these clones?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      @@naren.freak1c yes, these are two main worries. As for reliability my clone worked for past two weeks continuously with no problems (same with DartZeel clone) - the shop owner says that because of shipping costs they check them thoroughly before sending. As for warranty I think it's 6 or 12 months (gotta check this) for Ali purchases.
      The good thing is that clones have a simple and accessible modular build so it's modder and technician dream: easy to repair.
      But it would be good to have local dealer, though price probably wouldn't be that great then.

    • @naren.freak1c
      @naren.freak1c 2 месяца назад +1

      @@k4syx Thanks again. I think dartzeel clone was measured by German youtuber and power specs measured as promised and linearity looked good. I'll consider these ones when I'm able to build my speakers.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@naren.freak1c Yes Frank measured D5PRO and if I recall correctly it was pulling a bit more power than specced.

  • @onnonugteren2935
    @onnonugteren2935 2 месяца назад

    Great review again. But two important questions I do have: about which other amp you are talking exactly, I can't hear due to ... well sound perhaps. :-) Can you give the exact type? And two: how much electricity does it consume than really? How much wattage at 230 Volt? Greetings again from the Netherlands. 🙂

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      I know, I know :)
      I'm trying though!
      I've been in Rotterdam and Amsterdam a few times on business trips - greetings! :)
      As for the amp that would be Musical Fidelity A1 or DartZeel clone I was referring to (what timestamp are we talking here?)
      As for power consumed let me check and get back to you :)

    • @onnonugteren2935
      @onnonugteren2935 2 месяца назад

      Ah ok. 🙂@@k4syx

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@onnonugteren2935 62.5W when playing with maximum volume (6Ohm nominal speaker load) and 63.8W idle with minimum volume. So more or less stable power consumption regardless of actual usage. Class A heater. 50C on the fins and 51C on the transistors, so not bad at all.

    • @onnonugteren2935
      @onnonugteren2935 2 месяца назад

      Ah thank you. That's complete and helpful. 🙂@@k4syx Nowadays it's expansive to use 60 Watts constantly, so as you said it has its price. Greetings again.

    • @MrHesmovedon
      @MrHesmovedon 26 дней назад

      ​@@onnonugteren2935
      Are ye serious ?
      That YT channel is about the stuff that costs a fraction of the original ones and you're moaning about the electricity cost of something which consumes 60W constantly 🤔
      Don't you save a ton of the electricity bills by buying this cheap, Chinese ersatz ???
      Must be you're joking
      😂

  • @Reyfox1
    @Reyfox1 2 месяца назад +1

    Waiting for more "fake cable" reviews!

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      Stay tuned, there's a heap of them in burn in as we speak :)

  • @peterlarkin762
    @peterlarkin762 2 месяца назад

    Nice build! However, I have had many of those Omron relays from china on various equipment - they ALL fail after a while and cause a crackle noise. Just buy the real ones and replace.
    Also, it doesn't seem to have any soft-start circuit. With all that capacitance the transformer gets very stressed on startup. Another easy thing to upgrade.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      It actually does some kind of soft start while it's blinking, thought I can't see separate module for that like it was in D5PRO. I wasn't tracing PCB to look for actual parts though.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      And thanks for the tip on Omrons, I will watch them carefully!

  • @miloradpapic3298
    @miloradpapic3298 6 дней назад +1

    👍👍👍

  • @maxrider2887
    @maxrider2887 18 дней назад

    Is this and the Brzhifi Fax A1 is same?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  18 дней назад

      @@maxrider2887 this clone is made by BRZHifi

    • @maxrider2887
      @maxrider2887 18 дней назад

      @@k4syx thank again is this standard version?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  18 дней назад

      @@maxrider2887 are there any other than this one? I guess it's "standard" :)

  • @StagnantMizu
    @StagnantMizu Месяц назад

    is this a huge upgrade from the PMA 720 from 1989?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      I haven't heard the PMA so unfortunately I can't reliable answer that... Original amplifiers dating back to 89 can probably have capacitor problems by now - worth checking this out.

    • @StagnantMizu
      @StagnantMizu Месяц назад +1

      @@k4syx yeah I am going to recap when it gives problems, still noise free atm.

    • @StagnantMizu
      @StagnantMizu Месяц назад

      @@k4syx If you look at a picture of the circuit it looks pretty high quality compared to moden amps. probably due to outdated circuitry though haha.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@StagnantMizuI think you should also look for changes in frequency response as it may change with drying caps but I'm sure you are aware of that, so just a side note here:)

    • @StagnantMizu
      @StagnantMizu Месяц назад +1

      @@k4syx No devices to measure that accurately. as long as it sounds good enough to give me goosebumps which most systems dont do I am happy with it.

  • @TD05SSLegacy
    @TD05SSLegacy 2 месяца назад +1

    Dartzeel clone can do disco? 🕺🏼

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      It's 2x150W, it can do disco and welding as well ;)

  • @dugenounonplie8162
    @dugenounonplie8162 29 дней назад +1

    Je viens d'en acheter un exemplaire !

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  29 дней назад

      Enjoy it and please share your impressions!

    • @dugenounonplie8162
      @dugenounonplie8162 28 дней назад +1

      @@k4syx Yes, soon !

  • @kamertonaudiophileplayer847
    @kamertonaudiophileplayer847 9 дней назад +1

    I am also a big fan of class A amplifiers. I only aware that Chinese components are usually used ones and a questionable quality.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  9 дней назад +1

      @@kamertonaudiophileplayer847 used is actually a good thing in my book (as long as we're not talking about dried caps) as these will be proven, reliable, cheap and in some cases no longer produced. Call me psycho but I do have a box of different parts that Ive unsoldered from dead equipment over the years ;)

    • @kamertonaudiophileplayer847
      @kamertonaudiophileplayer847 9 дней назад

      @@k4syx Noise and instability is the major problem. Other - shorter life time and an expensive repair.

  • @JanEskildsen
    @JanEskildsen 4 дня назад +1

    Krell outside but MF inside obviously?

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  4 дня назад +1

      @@JanEskildsen Yes it seems that this badge just comes with the case. It's plastic so can be easily removed or replaced with something custom

    • @JanEskildsen
      @JanEskildsen 2 дня назад +1

      Thanks

  • @rontoolsie
    @rontoolsie 2 месяца назад +3

    These are cheap enough to get a pair and run them in a pseudo- monoblock arrangement, driving only one channel per amp.
    I have done this arrangement on quite a few stereo amps, including ones that sell for $30k+, and this always gives a much improved presentation.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +2

      This one inside is dual mono, so it would also work for dual bi-amping in such setup: one amp for one speaker (same input on both channels) and one speaker output connected to bass and another to treble speaker connectors. Im sure you know what I mean. This way we'd have 40W per speaker (=channel) totaling in 80 for both channels. Not so weak anymore!

    • @rontoolsie
      @rontoolsie 2 месяца назад +1

      Many speakers do not have dual inputs that would allow passive biamping.
      Although this may be dual mono internally, the transformer is still shared between channels.
      BTW the 30k$ amps that I tried in pseudomonoblocks was the Naim NAP500...dual mono EXCEPT for a shared transformer.
      Splitting them between channels was a huge improvement.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      @@rontoolsie Kinda like this one: dual mono except for the transformer. Separate windings, yes, but common flux. Still better than 90prc of commercial stuff

    • @razisn
      @razisn 2 месяца назад

      @@k4syx not really, since bass is what needs the most power (at least in dynamic driver speakers). If one amp is not enough to drive your bass, then 2 amps connected in that scheme will probably not be enough either.

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      @@razisn In case of the electrostats the panel is the culprit as it goes as low as 1.2Ohm so its a difficult load. 20W for reasonably sensitive bass driver should be ok, as long as you are not planning to do disco in the stadium sized area ;) For home purposes in my experience its plenty, as long as you are not facing low sensitivity or difficult loads. Best regards!

  • @RalphMuth
    @RalphMuth 2 месяца назад

    First watt

  • @moussaobeid
    @moussaobeid Месяц назад +1

    With the amazing value that China is offering us, one feels like an idiot if he buys stuff from Europe or North America unless you have tons of money to burn

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      @@moussaobeid in the long run it's worrying, but should also be a great incentive towards rapid technology advancement.
      It's like KZ headphones that I'm reviewing. I don't need that amount of IEMs, and I have TOTL stationary and mobile setups, but I just LOVE seeing them experimenting and pushing the boundaries while most of the established brands are just collecting coupons for the stuff that just gets older and older.

  • @steven2809
    @steven2809 2 месяца назад +1

    Shame about the silly Krell badge.........😖

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      Yes, shame! Seems like it's self-adhesive though so probably can be removed and replaced with something nicer. I've no idea why they do that when it's peanuts to order something that could help to promote the producers brand.

  • @liangsek8243
    @liangsek8243 17 дней назад

    obviously you have not tried the A1000 clone

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  17 дней назад +1

      @@liangsek8243 no, not yet, it had been recommended in the comments already

    • @maxrider2887
      @maxrider2887 7 дней назад

      Please provide the full model name A1000 clone.

    • @liangsek8243
      @liangsek8243 7 дней назад

      @@maxrider2887 search musical fidelity a1000 clone in Aliexpress

  • @burkhardhalfmann9539
    @burkhardhalfmann9539 2 месяца назад +1

    compared it to A1-X. JLH 69 has no chance! for the money the JLH 69 is quite good. JLH 69 has other cirtcuit than A1

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад

      Yes the circuits are completely different, these are different constructions

    • @tomrie2217
      @tomrie2217 Месяц назад

      Did you compare the A1 and the JLH 1969 directly?
      What are the difference in sound?
      I'am thinking about buying the A1 or the JLH 1969.

  • @razzman2987
    @razzman2987 2 месяца назад

    Buy the original this sucks ...bass on the A1 is awesome ..complete BS

    • @matthewtaylor7355
      @matthewtaylor7355 2 месяца назад +3

      1500 GBP V 230GBP........EVERYONES GONNA LISTEN TO U

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  2 месяца назад +1

      Bass on this clone is very good, very well controlled and precise. It's not disco level bleeding bass that covers most of mid-range.

  • @aaronlam2584
    @aaronlam2584 Месяц назад +1

    it is a cheap make , cheap parts amplifier , they cut corner by original design ,
    Price good , but don’t expected too much with what you paying 💰 😂
    As I hook it up this China clone with my B&W 804d2 , it sound like a garbage amplify ( no Sound stage , no layer , too harsh )
    My used Pass labs X150 or SimAudio Moon W3 sound way better , my used amplifiers not too expensive and I can resell it anytime to get back with what I paid , the China clone you will never resell it …

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад +1

      Which clone are you referring to? This MF or something else, what have you tested and should be avoided? BTW - about cheap parts - you're talking about this build in my video or just as a general opinion? Regards!

  • @Carl-yx1ww
    @Carl-yx1ww Месяц назад +1

    Does this sound better than dartzeel bro? Or should I buy both

    • @k4syx
      @k4syx  Месяц назад

      I have both ;) its like choosing between Ferrari and Lambo: if you can, get both. If you cant, then its personal preference. Whats the rest of your setup?

    • @Carl-yx1ww
      @Carl-yx1ww Месяц назад

      I have audiolab 9000a and pmc fbl i speakers​@@k4syx

    • @Carl-yx1ww
      @Carl-yx1ww Месяц назад

      Audiolab 9000a and pmc fb1 speakers​@@k4syx