🎯 bit.ly/3ZhPw1q • bit.ly/3WfuIWW for the Audiolab 9000A 👉CLICK THANKS ☝ to highlight your question &/or support the channel! ☝ *IF IT’S IN THE VIDEO, IT’S IN THE DESX ☝CLICK “MORE”* ☝ *RULES: NO OUTSIDE LINKS OR PERSONAL INFO. PLEASE STAY ON TOPIC AND BE RESPECTFUL*
@@Audiomainia2310 Don't need HDMI on a Stereo Amp it has Optical, both HDMI and Optical only give 2ch PCM on Stereo Amps, there is No difference in Sound Quality, definitely No need for HDMI 2.1 that's for AV Receivers Surround Sound
Thank you so much! We are enjoying our usual coffee. Hey, wanted to say your last two videos have looked really good! Not sure what you changed (if anything) but your lighting/framing etc. look cleaner, so kudos!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews appreciate it I bought a Google pixel 7 Pro phone been using that to make videos! I love it! Also my wife got me a huge Ring light with multiple lighting functions. I've been playing with lighting and camera modes in my phone.
Awesome guys, just another great review. I bought a buddy the 6000A a couple years back because he loves music as much as I do but just didn't have the means. He absolutely loves it. I believe Audiolab is a fantastic value in our hobby. Kudos.
I build speakers as a hobby for fun. My 6000A serves me well. I watched a comparison video with other amps and the 6000A seemed to flog the others in one regard...separation of instruments especially the voice. Like Andrew put it, an exploded view. On RUclips the 6000A sounded so separate compared to all the others. My point source speakers are semi open cone and they also separate the instruments as well. Really holographic.
You have a special ability to explain technical subjects with clarity. You are also gifted to be able to speak to the camera for long periods with no cuts. Nice job.
I recently had water damage in my audio room and need to rip out drywall and start over. It has me thinking about pre-wiring for Dolby Atmos. If I go that route, I was curious how you split your HT from your two channel setup. Are you running a two channel amp and and av separately? I watched your new Klipsch HT build but couldn't figure that part out. I need to figure out the best approach. Thanks to you and Kristi.
When we review hifi or two channel components we simply do not use or connect our in-ceiling speakers vs when we do HT we obviously connect them. You can do two channel and HT in one with an AV receiver like this one amzn.to/3OhaPdD that has preamp outs and then use a separate stereo or more "hifi" amp for your left and right mains. Setting the receiver to stereo (or direct) when listening to two channel will turn the receiver into a stereo preamp with the separate amp acting as a power amp for best results. This is ONE way you can have the best of both worlds. Thanks for your support Robb, I really appreciate it!
Apple Music lossless on a Mac or MacBook 💻 computer offers a customizable 9 band graphic equalizer within the app (unlike the iPhone). This offers tone control that happens all in the digital realm before the DAC, resulting in tone control that sounds noticeably cleaner and smoother than any secondary EQ apps that alter the music after the app, I’ve personally noticed. Sometimes the lack of tone controls is too much of a sacrifice. I personally prefer a very slight smile EQ and find music so much more enjoyable to my aging ears this way.
Me too! I love a bit of control on bass and treble. Pure audiophiles saying producers spent hours mastering it forget bands often aren’t happy with the production.
I believe, like the 6000 and 8300 it has a pre-out/main in mode, so you can hook up an eq like Schiit Loki or Lokius and presto, tone control problem solved.
Just watched one of your live streams and saw the discussion on Arcam. I am setting up another system on our living room and went to go buy the Marantz Cinema 50 and for the 1st time in MONTHS, they finally had Arcam in store. I compared the Cinema 50 and Arcam AVR 10. I bought the one the had in stock. While it sounds amazing and is far better than the Cinema 50, it''s got an awful setup menu and updating firmware has been a cluster.
Thanks for sharing, Michael. That's disappointing to hear. I was hoping that maybe our luck would change when it comes to that brand and getting review units this year but so far it's not looking all that promising.
After watching your review, buy it. I am happy, I love neutral sound, its design. This amplifier easily fills my speakers and low volume gives me musical details. Again, thank you Andrew for guiding me.
I bought the 6000a Play on your recommendation (Andrew) to power my KLH Model V’s (also on your recommendation). I was very happy with the purchase. After traveling to Decfest this year, I purchased Caintuck Open Baffle speakers. After working extensively on speaker placements and getting Tidal; I’ve been amazed at the great (somewhat Tube quality) sound the Audiolab 6000a Play is giving me! I’ve gone back many times and relistened to your 6000a Play review. It was (is) spot on.
What are your thoughts on using two subwoofers-svs 3000 micros:I already have one-along with two B&W 805 d4 book shelf speakers in an audio-only set up? Does using two improve things? Thanks!
Two subs doesn’t automatically mean more or better bass, especially if setup wrong. Properly setup you will get more even bass across a potentially wider area. If one works for your listening position, no need to add a second.
I currently own 6000a In uk cost me 550 pounds...I've had it for over a year now playing with my pmc fb1i speakers and it still makes me smile ...however I now have a 9000a on the way I purchased used on ebay fir 1200 pounds ....guys what a steal Christie?????😮
Thankyou Kristi!!! I almost pulled the trigger on the 9000a, had a really good deal at 2800 Canadian, but ... your comments on vinyl made me level up to the Technics g700mk2 at 3999 Canadian ... well I am sitting here listening to sound coming from my vinyl that I didn't know was achievable, especially at the price of the Technics. I am blown away and can't describe what that amp is doing, but it sounds to me like it is taking the recording and making it into a HQ audiofile, pulling everything apart, repairing any smearing sounds or broken notes and expertly placing it back together in a crazy detailed orchestra. Thankyou, without your review I would have gone with the cheaper option, and now I can enjoy my years of collected vinyl on a "whole nother level!"
The Audiolab 8300a in combination with the RME ADI2 DAC is a good package for streaming / digital playback. It offers tone control via a parametric EQ on the digital side and a powerful all analog amp. Overall cost is about the same as the 9000a.
Andrew you and Kristi, do an excellent job at bringing new products to us. But I love Marantz yet I would love to try something different. I’m always looking to get better sounding equipment. I love this review
I own a 8300A and I love every bit of it. In addition to beautiful neutral sound - the best and most important thing in it's feature set is a pair of 12V triggers. The way my setup is configured it can act as a power amp to my home theater and as integrated to my CD player. And it all works seamlessly. So I can enjoy aswell as rest of my familly hussle-free setup for day to day TV, movie watching or casual spotify streaming AND an amazing sounding stereo for the music listening evenings where the only thing I have to do is turn a knob or push a button on a remote and have a fully fledged CD+Integraded stereo setup omitting Onkyo RZ840 receiver all together. I wonder how the 9000A to 8300A compare.
Another great 👍 Thanks for the comparison as a baseline to understand your conclusions, and the balance between you two, allows us a better understanding.
Good morning friends! From the moment I saw photos of this unit, I was struck by its styling and aesthetic. As usual, I love living vicariously through the two of you. I absolutely agree with the dramatic design improvement over the omnia. Personally, I love a good asymmetrical design! QOTD: I was initially less critical of this unit, but very much appreciated your honesty and think ultimately I would look elsewhere if I were shopping for an integrated. Great work on this video, enjoy the rest of your weekend.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I'm sure I've said this before, but I really enjoy your focus on design when comparing hifi options and it definitely sets your channel apart.
The most important feature for me is the xlr input. There are few english amps with this feature in this price range. Modern Dacs have fantastic rendition over xlr.
I have the 6000a and have just picked up the 9000a yesterday for a home demo which I was really excited to hear as I love the 6000a.....apart from the looks and obvious better build I am having a hard time so far justifying the extra cost,especially as The 6000a is still only £649 here in the uk against £1999for the 9000a!
I picked up a (brand new from dealer) 6000a Play in December for $700. Prices for Audiolab seems much higher in the US. (I’m in Sweden). But, the 9000a was just released here, and the asking price is $2700 !! Thanks for the review Andrew
I struggle with the lack of streaming options and the lack of controls for the subwoofer. Its the same issue that i had with my NAD C388 loved the sound, but couldn't fix the lack of crossovers for my stand mounted bookshelves. I think at this point integrated amps need to pick one of two lanes, either they are fully "old school analog" with no streaming, no sub out, and are marketed to someone who is looking for that vintage experience, or they embrace digital and have some sort of streaming, HDMI ARC, and basic DSP functions like crossovers and tone control at a minimum. This feels stuck in the middle, people who like vintage will find it too digital and people who like modern will find it lacking features..
Thanks Andrew And Christi You all keep expectations in check Appricate all the hard work and dedication you 2 bring to us Audio enthuist - And Christi I also love the STYLISH SILVER Me new 9000cdt looks great 😃
Consistent UI visuals across products is a good thing, not a bad thing. It adds to visual identity of the brand. Dedicated PRE outs for subs is awesome. Products at this price point should have all of this, HDMI as well.
Hello Andrew. Why you used an hdmi to optical converter and you didn't connect the TV to the 9000a with an optical cable. You get better quality with the converter? Thanks in advance for your answer.
Kristi was right on the money in her observation that customers will more than likely in the end go for the 6000. I waited to see this review before committing to buy and that's just what I did! Again, I agree with Kristi. The look is gorgeous ! If budget were not an issue I might be tempted just for the visual impact ! Another great review. Thanks.
Great video guys! Loved it and wish to see more videos with integrated amps of this price range. Technics aside which I love as a brand, but is simply unobtainable in 3 different countries that I travel, work and reside even though they made a powerful "comeback" in the hifi/av market, I would still go for the 9000A. It ticks the majority of the boxes for me as it is compact, both height and weight wise, has significantly improved build quality, a more than decent phono stage, no tone controls (don't like them as I prefer to listen to my music as the sound engineers mixed them in the studio) and a headphone output. Additionally as per my listening experience Audiolab has a sound signature very similar to Naim amplifiers but accompanied with a much lower price tag. I think Exposure is the other brand which is trying to imitate Audiolab and has done quite well so far. Fantastic video as always
The 9000a is clearly a great amp, but I must say I'm not convinced I can justify the price upgrade from my 6000a, as I don't see how it gets much better than this. One thing I have always been a bit curious is the Audiolab 8300a. Are you ever planning on reviewing that?
Well LOL...the review I was waiting for. You guys are just awesome!! I think I will keep the Roksan Attessa I just got. But, the 9000a looks fantastic as expected. Really appreciate the timely review.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Loving it. The control over the mid-bass/bass and the soundstage are better than the CXA81. I find myself looking forward to trying all kinds of music on it because it is such a positive change for me. Really appreciate the prior review. I would likely have never even considered it. I did look at the Rotel 1592 MKII but it just wouldn't physically fit where I need to place it. But that's fine.
Awesome review! Throughly enjoyed the brutally honest opinion about the digitazisation of phono signal. I recently bought the Blusound Hub. I am streaming my Linn Sondek to my system in a different part of the room. Love it!
There’s a lot of talk about HDMI in this review. But how many folks buy a specialised $3k stereo hi-fi amp to connect to their TV? Of the four other amps referred to in the review - the Marantz, the Roksan, the Rotel and the Technics - only the Marantz includes HDMI. This, presumably, tells, you something of the demand - or lack of it - in relation to amps like these. Also, if you do want to connect a stereo amp with digital inputs to a TV, there’s an argument to say that optical is better than HDMI - in terms of sound quality, if not convenience. While HDMI ARC enables you to use your TV remote to control your amp (standby/volume), using the optical connection keeps the amp electrically isolated from the TV, thereby avoiding potential noise from the TV coupling into the hi-fi system. I can see why HDMI ARC is a useful convenience for amp/speaker products that are going to be used primarily with a TV, but with an amp like the Audiolab I don’t see why it should be considered so important, regardless of which amp one may otherwise prefer. Regarding network streaming for the 9000 Series, I’ve read that Audiolab will address this in 2023 with a flagship streaming component.
Replaced my Roksan Blak with this amp and wow it’s like someone has injected some excitement into my system. I’m running Monitor Audio PL200II speakers and the amp doesn’t hesitate at all.
Well done. First review of the 9000a even before any major British publications. I own the audiolab 8300a and I believe its sound will be close to the 9000a less 25 WPC and DAC. Are you able to get the Atoll IN200 signature for review as I am very interested to get your and Christie's opinion on the amp.
How would you compare 9000a to yamaha s2200 purely sound qualities wise ? Also what would you pick to be used with Focal Kanta No.2, s2200 or 9000a or Denon A110 ?
I had the chance to demo this brand new out the box shop had just received it before Christmas i will say it looks awesome in person is hefty well built and sounds very good even with kef ls50 metas if it had an HDMI i would have punched there and then as usual great banter between you two
They make fabulous products, don’t they?!?!? I want to hear the 8300 series mono amps with my 6000a play as a preamp. At the price of the 9000 there is no way I could justify it as a preamp only.
The first manufacturer to make a decent amp that reintroduces at least one tape in/out loop will be hero's, and very smart. There are still a lot of people out there who have really good cassette decks and open reels, For the sake of an input knob with an extra position, 4 extra RCA's and a bit of extra cable they'd steal a march on the other manufacturers. If the new Audiolab 9000Q pre-amp had a tape loop, I'd replace my 8000Q :).
Yamaha R-N2000A for me - the lack of hdmi and not exactly desirable looks (mainly the stodgy screen) are unusual. Also in Australia the Yamaha is only $500 AUD more than the 40n
Yeah, I tend to agree. I was thinking maybe it was a high current design that can drive maggies. Instead it’s basically the same power as my AXR100. Sonically it sounds like I’d be happier with my Cambridge as I place high value on warmth
@@jeremyr722 I'm also a Maggie guy (1.7i) so when I saw they're review for the Rotel 1592 mk2 in this price bracket with twice or more the power output and all the features of this I jumped on it. It's been the right integrated for my needs for sure.
At least 200 watts continuous into 8 ohms for the price. It is better to have plenty of headroom so the amp does not go into overdrive. Not enough power can damage speakers with high volume setting.
Great review seems like the 6000A remains great value but the 9000A can hold its own against competitors at least sound quality-wise. Nice to see the concept 50's having recently heard some spendor tower speakers i'm now not as concerned about them overpowering my room so I'm definitely seriously considering popping to my local hifi store to give them a listen at some point.
Hey Andrew & Kristi, Love your videos, always. I most certainly like all of them. This review has put me to a spot. I am almost in the process of buying ROTEL RA 1572 /1592 Mk II for my brand new Polk Audio R700 speakers. Which one you would recommend please (Rotel or Audiolab)??? Your review of Polk said that need some good power; so will 100w of 9000A be sufficient to make them dance. We often crank up the volume to 90-100dB or more. I will mostly stream high-res Apple music via Apple TV and play CDs through Marantz CD6007.
In general you dont get twice the perfomence when you paying twice the price. It offen not more than maybe 20-30% but in audio that still will be big difference. I recently upgraded amp from Hegel h190 to 390 almost twice the money. Not twice the perfomence. More like 20-25 % but that is still considered huge in audio terms and difference is very notiable. The higher you go the more you need to pay to feel the same upgrade again
I have a Sony STR-DH790 with a 5.1.2 (2 being the height channel) Jamo speaker set up. Would you recommend eventually pairing that receiver with a separate amp? What is the benefit of pairing an amp with a receiver?
True story…I began watching your channel about a year ago when a friend of mine asked for advice on some new speakers and a turntable. Long story short your video on the Klipsch RP 8000F convinced me to suggest those to him. It then convinced me to buy a pair for myself. Which then convinced me to buy a 504C center channel, 502s side surrounds, and another pair of 8000Fs for my rear channels. Which leads me to today. Now I watch your videos on a regular basis. I am looking to upgrade my Sony STR DN850. Initially I was sold on a RZ50. Then thought I would wait on the Marantz cinema 40. Now this is out and I am a Sony fan. I was leaning toward the marantz thinking the more round sound would balance well with the RP8000Fs. Any advice? It would be mostly used for listening to music both vinyl and streamed. Anything from Miles Davis to Queens of the Stone Age. However, I would also be using for movies and some gaming. Thank you for these awesome videos!
Great review as ever. Enjoy your channel. Wished you covered the power on tap to drive hungry speakers like Polk Audio R700. I have Polks and my old 125w Roksan Kandy mk-III aren’t the best to get all the performance the Polk is capable of. I get confused to see 100w @8oms with just a 325v transformer and smallish capacitance. As a comparison, Yamaha AS1200 and 2200 have a 625v transformer with >75,000 mf capacitance (both) and still just delivers claimed 90w @8ohms. So does Yamaha really delivers so low for so much hardware or the Audiolab 9000A delivers so much with so little?? Or it is just a tall claim by Audiolab!! Same story with other high end products like, Denon PMA A110 which claims to delivers just 80w with such beefy hardware. Appreciate your comments on this. Also pl tell if Audiolab 9000A is capable of driving Polk R700s to a 100db loudness or will Yamaha and Denon will be better at the task?
I have a 9000A on home demo running with 705 series 2 and it really is quite nice. I did have a pair of the series 3 for a little while and I guess it could be argued that they're slightly easier on the ear in terms of high frequencies. Although I prefer using the audio lab with a pair of totem sttaf speakers as they are even more forgiving on the top end and that's my preference.
Thankyou both once again for another top review. I think it missing hdmi is a massive loss as in todays age hdmi is a must have as just to connect to a tv, hdmi makes it so easy.
Nice review. Re phono preamp, I would quibble, that if you are really into records, you will get a dedicated phono preamp. That of course goes against the all in one box integrated approach, and I admit, I am a separates guy. BUT: separate phono preamp make a massive difference and I would not accept just a built in option in an integrated. Therefore, If you are into vinyl, ignore the phono characteristics of those integrated, and get a dedicated phono preamp. Loads of options ... my 2c.
Don't agree to this assumption. Yes, of course, throw a grand at a phono stage and it will sound better. But I tried a few at the same price as the whole 6000A and none of them sounded 'better' than the integrated stage (with a mid tier deck, OM20). Let your ears decide.
@@mike_lowndes For starters, most integrated only have MM capable phono stage, including the 6/9000A. Most people who get more seriously into vinyl get a MC cartridge. I use a SoundSmith Zephyr MIMC* ($2K), also have an Ortofon 2M black MC ($700) as a backup; SS has quite a bit more detail than the 2Mblack. With those cartridges I heard very noticeable improvements from first a built-in of a Rotel RA1572 integrated ($2K: not applicable to the SS MC cartridge), then to a Vincent PHO701 ($700) phono stage, to an EAT eglow petite ($1500) phono stage. Consider upgrading even further. TT is a VPI super prime scout, will upgrade eventually as well to something with dual arm option, lusting for SS strain gauge cartridge/system.
Great review as always. I’m less fussed about hdmi than most it would appear, but in the UK the 9000a (£2000) is three times the price of the 6000a (£650) so I’m disappointed that the sound isn’t much better than the 6000a. Might have to look at the Roksan.
Excellent review again. Question...why do you think Audiolab avoids HDMI like the plague? I had handshake issues concerning HDR with my Marantz AV7706 to the point that I removed my TV, and my projector...bought a newer projector and went screen only....no problems now.
I had the Toshiba Gigabeat, which inspired the Microsoft Zune. It was a great player and introduced video playback before the iPod video came out. I also had the Motorola Rokr, which was the first phone to connect to iTunes before they decided to develop the iPhone. What about the original Roku streaming box, I had that and you had to hardwire them via Ethernet, inspired other streaming devices and I believe the integration of streaming apps directly into the TV.
Great review still loving my 6000a and Heresys based on your recommendation. Looking for some suggestions of other speakers in same price point to swap in and out.
I totally agree with this new 9000A not having any newer features that make sense for 2023 that for twice the price it does not offer twice the sound at least. I do think though this works out even better for someone like me who uses a bluesound node or some kind of external streamer. Just gotta plug it in through COAX to take advantage of the new DAC this 9000A offers and enjoy the set up to the max. I'm happy with my 6000A + Node combo on my Heresy IVs, if the extra cash is available in the near future I'd love to try out the 9000A for sure.
🎯 bit.ly/3ZhPw1q • bit.ly/3WfuIWW for the Audiolab 9000A
👉CLICK THANKS ☝ to highlight your question &/or support the channel!
☝ *IF IT’S IN THE VIDEO, IT’S IN THE DESX ☝CLICK “MORE”*
☝ *RULES: NO OUTSIDE LINKS OR PERSONAL INFO. PLEASE STAY ON TOPIC AND BE RESPECTFUL*
You should review the Arcam SA20. It's a direct competitor to all the others you mention.
@Stuart Winer We've requested Arcam many times but they continue to have "stock issues" which is why you have not see their products reviewed.
Why on Earth do they release a new product like this without HDMI 2.1 ports? That's my real disappointment.
@@Audiomainia2310
Don't need HDMI on a Stereo Amp it has Optical, both HDMI and Optical only give 2ch PCM on Stereo Amps, there is No difference in Sound Quality, definitely No need for HDMI 2.1 that's for AV Receivers Surround Sound
@@andrewrobinsonreviews please make a review nakamichi new dragon soundbar.
Thanks! This morning coffee is on me guys!
That is so kind of you!!
Thank you so much! We are enjoying our usual coffee. Hey, wanted to say your last two videos have looked really good! Not sure what you changed (if anything) but your lighting/framing etc. look cleaner, so kudos!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews appreciate it I bought a Google pixel 7 Pro phone been using that to make videos! I love it! Also my wife got me a huge Ring light with multiple lighting functions. I've been playing with lighting and camera modes in my phone.
Awesome guys, just another great review. I bought a buddy the 6000A a couple years back because he loves music as much as I do but just didn't have the means. He absolutely loves it. I believe Audiolab is a fantastic value in our hobby. Kudos.
I build speakers as a hobby for fun. My 6000A serves me well. I watched a comparison video with other amps and the 6000A seemed to flog the others in one regard...separation of instruments especially the voice. Like Andrew put it, an exploded view. On RUclips the 6000A sounded so separate compared to all the others. My point source speakers are semi open cone and they also separate the instruments as well. Really holographic.
You have a special ability to explain technical subjects with clarity. You are also gifted to be able to speak to the camera for long periods with no cuts. Nice job.
I recently had water damage in my audio room and need to rip out drywall and start over. It has me thinking about pre-wiring for Dolby Atmos. If I go that route, I was curious how you split your HT from your two channel setup. Are you running a two channel amp and and av separately? I watched your new Klipsch HT build but couldn't figure that part out. I need to figure out the best approach. Thanks to you and Kristi.
When we review hifi or two channel components we simply do not use or connect our in-ceiling speakers vs when we do HT we obviously connect them. You can do two channel and HT in one with an AV receiver like this one amzn.to/3OhaPdD that has preamp outs and then use a separate stereo or more "hifi" amp for your left and right mains. Setting the receiver to stereo (or direct) when listening to two channel will turn the receiver into a stereo preamp with the separate amp acting as a power amp for best results. This is ONE way you can have the best of both worlds. Thanks for your support Robb, I really appreciate it!
You and Kristi remain my favourite RUclips Channel …you’re both just such nice human beings! Enjoy your Sunday!
Thank you so much, Sal. We really appreciate the love!
Thanks!
Thank you so much Paul and I hope you enjoy your Onkyo/Polk setup!
You guys are amazing!
Bu I think Kristi’s comments are really the best! They are simply coming from the heart!❤️
Apple Music lossless on a Mac or MacBook 💻 computer offers a customizable 9 band graphic equalizer within the app (unlike the iPhone). This offers tone control that happens all in the digital realm before the DAC, resulting in tone control that sounds noticeably cleaner and smoother than any secondary EQ apps that alter the music after the app, I’ve personally noticed. Sometimes the lack of tone controls is too much of a sacrifice. I personally prefer a very slight smile EQ and find music so much more enjoyable to my aging ears this way.
I liie a huge smile to be honest! Don't care if no one else likes it! 😁
Me too! I love a bit of control on bass and treble. Pure audiophiles saying producers spent hours mastering it forget bands often aren’t happy with the production.
I believe, like the 6000 and 8300 it has a pre-out/main in mode, so you can hook up an eq like Schiit Loki or Lokius and presto, tone control problem solved.
I mean if you’re on a Mac you can get SoundSource which will give you full parametric EQ
Just watched one of your live streams and saw the discussion on Arcam. I am setting up another system on our living room and went to go buy the Marantz Cinema 50 and for the 1st time in MONTHS, they finally had Arcam in store. I compared the Cinema 50 and Arcam AVR 10. I bought the one the had in stock. While it sounds amazing and is far better than the Cinema 50, it''s got an awful setup menu and updating firmware has been a cluster.
Thanks for sharing, Michael. That's disappointing to hear. I was hoping that maybe our luck would change when it comes to that brand and getting review units this year but so far it's not looking all that promising.
After watching your review, buy it. I am happy, I love neutral sound, its design. This amplifier easily fills my speakers and low volume gives me musical details. Again, thank you Andrew for guiding me.
I bought the 6000a Play on your recommendation (Andrew) to power my KLH Model V’s (also on your recommendation).
I was very happy with the purchase.
After traveling to Decfest this year, I purchased Caintuck Open Baffle speakers. After working extensively on speaker placements and getting Tidal; I’ve been amazed at the great (somewhat Tube quality) sound the Audiolab 6000a Play is giving me!
I’ve gone back many times and relistened to your 6000a Play review. It was (is) spot on.
Thanks for the feedback, that's great to hear!
What are your thoughts on using two subwoofers-svs 3000 micros:I already have one-along with two B&W 805 d4 book shelf speakers in an audio-only set up? Does using two improve things? Thanks!
Two subs doesn’t automatically mean more or better bass, especially if setup wrong. Properly setup you will get more even bass across a potentially wider area. If one works for your listening position, no need to add a second.
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thank you!
Thank you both for the review. It looks great and if I were in the market I would buy the 40n. I want that Marantz.
Not a bad way to go!
I currently own 6000a In uk cost me 550 pounds...I've had it for over a year now playing with my pmc fb1i speakers and it still makes me smile ...however I now have a 9000a on the way I purchased used on ebay fir 1200 pounds ....guys what a steal Christie?????😮
@@Carl-yx1ww how did it go with the 9000a are you happy with the upgrade?
Danke!
Thank you!
I have the 9000A for a few days now. My Canton speakers have benefited greatly from it.
I love Canton speakers but it's been a while since I heard them. What models do you have?
@@sdemosi Canton Vento 890
@@thomasplattner8046 lovely speaker. I've heard the 892 and thought it was excellent.
Hi Andrew, what amplifier will you choose to Kef ls50 Meta and in future Bowers 705 s3, Musical Fidelity M5si or Audiolab 9000A ? Cheers
9000A on the B&Ws.
Either amp on the KEFs.
Thank you for supporting the channel!
Thankyou Kristi!!! I almost pulled the trigger on the 9000a, had a really good deal at 2800 Canadian, but ... your comments on vinyl made me level up to the Technics g700mk2 at 3999 Canadian ... well I am sitting here listening to sound coming from my vinyl that I didn't know was achievable, especially at the price of the Technics. I am blown away and can't describe what that amp is doing, but it sounds to me like it is taking the recording and making it into a HQ audiofile, pulling everything apart, repairing any smearing sounds or broken notes and expertly placing it back together in a crazy detailed orchestra. Thankyou, without your review I would have gone with the cheaper option, and now I can enjoy my years of collected vinyl on a "whole nother level!"
Brought this today its well worth the money
The Audiolab 8300a in combination with the RME ADI2 DAC is a good package for streaming / digital playback. It offers tone control via a parametric EQ on the digital side and a powerful all analog amp. Overall cost is about the same as the 9000a.
Andrew you and Kristi, do an excellent job at bringing new products to us. But I love Marantz yet I would love to try something different. I’m always looking to get better sounding equipment. I love this review
Will be quite different with the 9000A. I had a PM Ruby prior to the 9000A. 9000A is a way better amp imo.
I own a 8300A and I love every bit of it. In addition to beautiful neutral sound - the best and most important thing in it's feature set is a pair of 12V triggers. The way my setup is configured it can act as a power amp to my home theater and as integrated to my CD player. And it all works seamlessly. So I can enjoy aswell as rest of my familly hussle-free setup for day to day TV, movie watching or casual spotify streaming AND an amazing sounding stereo for the music listening evenings where the only thing I have to do is turn a knob or push a button on a remote and have a fully fledged CD+Integraded stereo setup omitting Onkyo RZ840 receiver all together. I wonder how the 9000A to 8300A compare.
Good morning, guys. awesome review, big fan of audio labs 😎.
Morning @west coast, thanks for joining us as always!
Another great 👍 Thanks for the comparison as a baseline to understand your conclusions, and the balance between you two, allows us a better understanding.
Good morning friends! From the moment I saw photos of this unit, I was struck by its styling and aesthetic. As usual, I love living vicariously through the two of you. I absolutely agree with the dramatic design improvement over the omnia. Personally, I love a good asymmetrical design!
QOTD: I was initially less critical of this unit, but very much appreciated your honesty and think ultimately I would look elsewhere if I were shopping for an integrated.
Great work on this video, enjoy the rest of your weekend.
Thank you so much! Have a great rest of your weekend too!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews I'm sure I've said this before, but I really enjoy your focus on design when comparing hifi options and it definitely sets your channel apart.
The most important feature for me is the xlr input. There are few english amps with this feature in this price range. Modern Dacs have fantastic rendition over xlr.
I have the 6000a and have just picked up the 9000a yesterday for a home demo which I was really excited to hear as I love the 6000a.....apart from the looks and obvious better build I am having a hard time so far justifying the extra cost,especially as The 6000a is still only £649 here in the uk against £1999for the 9000a!
Head to head the 6000A is not embarrassed, so I totally understand.
I picked up a (brand new from dealer) 6000a Play in December for $700. Prices for Audiolab seems much higher in the US. (I’m in Sweden).
But, the 9000a was just released here, and the asking price is $2700 !!
Thanks for the review Andrew
That’s an exceptional price for the 6000a - no brainer.
I paid 2.200 Euros for it. But I think nowadays everything is 30% overprized.
@@techsamurai11 Note that it was for the Play too 😎(Black week prize).
The 9000A seems overpriced
My favorite reviews are the reviews that seem to light you guys up. When you start mincing and comparing I start to cool over. Great review.
I struggle with the lack of streaming options and the lack of controls for the subwoofer. Its the same issue that i had with my NAD C388 loved the sound, but couldn't fix the lack of crossovers for my stand mounted bookshelves.
I think at this point integrated amps need to pick one of two lanes, either they are fully "old school analog" with no streaming, no sub out, and are marketed to someone who is looking for that vintage experience, or they embrace digital and have some sort of streaming, HDMI ARC, and basic DSP functions like crossovers and tone control at a minimum. This feels stuck in the middle, people who like vintage will find it too digital and people who like modern will find it lacking features..
Thanks Andrew And Christi You all keep expectations in check Appricate all the hard work and dedication you 2 bring to us Audio enthuist - And Christi I also love the STYLISH SILVER Me new 9000cdt looks great 😃
The black/Grey Audiolab 9000 looks beautiful as well.
I have the Audiolab 6000a play with the 6000cdt and I am very happy with it.
Consistent UI visuals across products is a good thing, not a bad thing. It adds to visual identity of the brand. Dedicated PRE outs for subs is awesome. Products at this price point should have all of this, HDMI as well.
Hello Andrew.
Why you used an hdmi to optical converter and you didn't connect the TV to the 9000a with an optical cable. You get better quality with the converter? Thanks in advance for your answer.
Kristi was right on the money in her observation that customers will more than likely in the end go for the 6000. I waited to see this review before committing to buy and that's just what I did! Again, I agree with Kristi. The look is gorgeous ! If budget were not an issue I might be tempted just for the visual impact ! Another great review. Thanks.
Great video guys! Loved it and wish to see more videos with integrated amps of this price range. Technics aside which I love as a brand, but is simply unobtainable in 3 different countries that I travel, work and reside even though they made a powerful "comeback" in the hifi/av market, I would still go for the 9000A. It ticks the majority of the boxes for me as it is compact, both height and weight wise, has significantly improved build quality, a more than decent phono stage, no tone controls (don't like them as I prefer to listen to my music as the sound engineers mixed them in the studio) and a headphone output. Additionally as per my listening experience Audiolab has a sound signature very similar to Naim amplifiers but accompanied with a much lower price tag. I think Exposure is the other brand which is trying to imitate Audiolab and has done quite well so far. Fantastic video as always
Another solid review! 👌🏿 good job audio lab
The 9000a is clearly a great amp, but I must say I'm not convinced I can justify the price upgrade from my 6000a, as I don't see how it gets much better than this. One thing I have always been a bit curious is the Audiolab 8300a. Are you ever planning on reviewing that?
Well LOL...the review I was waiting for. You guys are just awesome!! I think I will keep the Roksan Attessa I just got. But, the 9000a looks fantastic as expected. Really appreciate the timely review.
The Roksan is so good. How do you like it so far?
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Loving it. The control over the mid-bass/bass and the soundstage are better than the CXA81. I find myself looking forward to trying all kinds of music on it because it is such a positive change for me. Really appreciate the prior review. I would likely have never even considered it. I did look at the Rotel 1592 MKII but it just wouldn't physically fit where I need to place it. But that's fine.
Great stuff as usual. Happy Sunday! Nice looking piece of gear.
Thanks for joining us.
@@KristiWright always!
Andrew, would you pick Audiolab 9000A or Uniti Atom?
Which would u choose a vegy burger or 100% Kobi Beef ? ..... Yeah sorry dumb question 😂
Andrew, please get your hands on the 9000Q/P for a side-by-side comparison to the 9000A 😎 pretty please
Awesome review! Throughly enjoyed the brutally honest opinion about the digitazisation of phono signal. I recently bought the Blusound Hub. I am streaming my Linn Sondek to my system in a different part of the room. Love it!
Cool looking Amp, love UV meters. Technics is absolutely bella . Aloha
Thanx for many hours reviews ❤
What about the USB input?
Play is not missing .. better to Connect A Bluesound nod and get it all
How does it compare to the Musical Fidelity M5si?
There’s a lot of talk about HDMI in this review. But how many folks buy a specialised $3k stereo hi-fi amp to connect to their TV? Of the four other amps referred to in the review - the Marantz, the Roksan, the Rotel and the Technics - only the Marantz includes HDMI. This, presumably, tells, you something of the demand - or lack of it - in relation to amps like these.
Also, if you do want to connect a stereo amp with digital inputs to a TV, there’s an argument to say that optical is better than HDMI - in terms of sound quality, if not convenience. While HDMI ARC enables you to use your TV remote to control your amp (standby/volume), using the optical connection keeps the amp electrically isolated from the TV, thereby avoiding potential noise from the TV coupling into the hi-fi system. I can see why HDMI ARC is a useful convenience for amp/speaker products that are going to be used primarily with a TV, but with an amp like the Audiolab I don’t see why it should be considered so important, regardless of which amp one may otherwise prefer.
Regarding network streaming for the 9000 Series, I’ve read that Audiolab will address this in 2023 with a flagship streaming component.
Agree some interesting and valid points 😉
Replaced my Roksan Blak with this amp and wow it’s like someone has injected some excitement into my system. I’m running Monitor Audio PL200II speakers and the amp doesn’t hesitate at all.
I have always been impressed by the sound of the 1200 back in the 80's and it still sounds good ☺👍
I love that it can be a power amp for home theater too.
It is very flexible!
THANKS FOR SHARING THIS ANDREW AND KRISTI 🤗👍…my comment of the day…is I have No experience with AUDIO LAB …to make a comment 🤷♂️💚💚💚
As always, we appreciate you.
Great video again. Well done! Do you think the 9000A would be a good suitable amp for the Klipsch Forte IV ?
HEYYY! You've got the Triangles! That's great! Can't wait to hear your thoughts on them. 😁
Thank you very much for a perfect review! You can be proud of yourselves. I think I'll keep dreaming about the Yamaha r-n2000a...
Thanks for watching!
Yet another great review! Also noticed you changed your TV mount/ situation… bigger TV, perhaps an upcoming TVs video… I like! 😮
Nice catch!
Its all in the small details… 😉
Well done. First review of the 9000a even before any major British publications. I own the audiolab 8300a and I believe its sound will be close to the 9000a less 25 WPC and DAC.
Are you able to get the Atoll IN200 signature for review as I am very interested to get your and Christie's opinion on the amp.
You guys both do a great job and I love the channel. Keep up the great work and ignore the haters. Signed, a current NAIM XS3 with Wharedales user!
That is a beautiful amp. If I ever switch to passive speakers, I'll def be looking at this. Thanks for another great review!
Digging this review. Wondering how this amp would compare to Yamaha as-1200 to drive some Wharfedale Lintons.
How would you compare 9000a to yamaha s2200 purely sound qualities wise ? Also what would you pick to be used with Focal Kanta No.2, s2200 or 9000a or Denon A110 ?
I had the chance to demo this brand new out the box shop had just received it before Christmas i will say it looks awesome in person is hefty well built and sounds very good even with kef ls50 metas if it had an HDMI i would have punched there and then as usual great banter between you two
Rok San, no sun involved , great review
Great review! Always eager to hear Christie's take on the products. Lines up more with how I think about audio products 😇
I'm pretty keen for you guys to get your hands on the new Nakamichi Dragon. It looks off the hook!
Oh, Technics speakers yeah! Bring it on!
Stay tuned!
They make fabulous products, don’t they?!?!? I want to hear the 8300 series mono amps with my 6000a play as a preamp. At the price of the 9000 there is no way I could justify it as a preamp only.
A 6000A as a pre on a pair of 8300 monos would rock!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews It does. I have them hooked up to my DALI RUBICON 5.
The first manufacturer to make a decent amp that reintroduces at least one tape in/out loop will be hero's, and very smart. There are still a lot of people out there who have really good cassette decks and open reels, For the sake of an input knob with an extra position, 4 extra RCA's and a bit of extra cable they'd steal a march on the other manufacturers.
If the new Audiolab 9000Q pre-amp had a tape loop, I'd replace my 8000Q :).
Yamaha R-N2000A for me - the lack of hdmi and not exactly desirable looks (mainly the stodgy screen) are unusual. Also in Australia the Yamaha is only $500 AUD more than the 40n
The Yamaha looks promising for sure!
Love the look of those technics speakers...
That amp's a looker! Was hoping for more power delivery for the price, though I'm sure it's enough for most.
Yeah, I tend to agree. I was thinking maybe it was a high current design that can drive maggies. Instead it’s basically the same power as my AXR100. Sonically it sounds like I’d be happier with my Cambridge as I place high value on warmth
@@jeremyr722 I'm also a Maggie guy (1.7i) so when I saw they're review for the Rotel 1592 mk2 in this price bracket with twice or more the power output and all the features of this I jumped on it. It's been the right integrated for my needs for sure.
At least 200 watts continuous into 8 ohms for the price. It is better to have plenty of headroom so the amp does not go into overdrive. Not enough power can damage speakers with high volume setting.
Today, I bought a 9000a for $1200 and am waiting to receive it, along with my Linton, thanks for your review
@songjin9420 how do you like the pairing?
@@allenwilliams8962 I love it
Great review seems like the 6000A remains great value but the 9000A can hold its own against competitors at least sound quality-wise. Nice to see the concept 50's having recently heard some spendor tower speakers i'm now not as concerned about them overpowering my room so I'm definitely seriously considering popping to my local hifi store to give them a listen at some point.
Man do those Technics looks clean 🤤
Very. Though the new models are markedly different sounding than the originals!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews can’t wait to hear your take!
The 6000a can be had for €600 here (play for +€150). It's definitely the more sensible choice and I really want one now
You'll find no argument here.
Hi Andrew. I would like to know how it compares with Audiolab7000A? Thanks
Coming soon
Hey Andrew & Kristi, Love your videos, always. I most certainly like all of them. This review has put me to a spot.
I am almost in the process of buying ROTEL RA 1572 /1592 Mk II for my brand new Polk Audio R700 speakers. Which one you would recommend please (Rotel or Audiolab)??? Your review of Polk said that need some good power; so will 100w of 9000A be sufficient to make them dance. We often crank up the volume to 90-100dB or more. I will mostly stream high-res Apple music via Apple TV and play CDs through Marantz CD6007.
@andrew please I would be grateful if you respond to my query?
Great episode. Great lineup.
Thanks!
Hey Guys, How does this pair with the Bower & wilkins 805 D4? Is this amp a good fit?
They sounded good together!
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Thanks for the reply
Love it, unfortunately this would be a winner for me if it had at least one line out, since i have a few recording devices in my setup.
In general you dont get twice the perfomence when you paying twice the price. It offen not more than maybe 20-30% but in audio that still will be big difference. I recently upgraded amp from Hegel h190 to 390 almost twice the money. Not twice the perfomence. More like 20-25 % but that is still considered huge in audio terms and difference is very notiable. The higher you go the more you need to pay to feel the same upgrade again
I have a Sony STR-DH790 with a 5.1.2 (2 being the height channel) Jamo speaker set up. Would you recommend eventually pairing that receiver with a separate amp? What is the benefit of pairing an amp with a receiver?
True story…I began watching your channel about a year ago when a friend of mine asked for advice on some new speakers and a turntable. Long story short your video on the Klipsch RP 8000F convinced me to suggest those to him. It then convinced me to buy a pair for myself. Which then convinced me to buy a 504C center channel, 502s side surrounds, and another pair of 8000Fs for my rear channels. Which leads me to today. Now I watch your videos on a regular basis. I am looking to upgrade my Sony STR DN850. Initially I was sold on a RZ50. Then thought I would wait on the Marantz cinema 40. Now this is out and I am a Sony fan. I was leaning toward the marantz thinking the more round sound would balance well with the RP8000Fs. Any advice? It would be mostly used for listening to music both vinyl and streamed. Anything from Miles Davis to Queens of the Stone Age. However, I would also be using for movies and some gaming. Thank you for these awesome videos!
Great review as ever. Enjoy your channel.
Wished you covered the power on tap to drive hungry speakers like Polk Audio R700. I have Polks and my old 125w Roksan Kandy mk-III aren’t the best to get all the performance the Polk is capable of.
I get confused to see 100w @8oms with just a 325v transformer and smallish capacitance. As a comparison, Yamaha AS1200 and 2200 have a 625v transformer with >75,000 mf capacitance (both) and still just delivers claimed 90w @8ohms. So does Yamaha really delivers so low for so much hardware or the Audiolab 9000A delivers so much with so little?? Or it is just a tall claim by Audiolab!! Same story with other high end products like, Denon PMA A110 which claims to delivers just 80w with such beefy hardware.
Appreciate your comments on this. Also pl tell if Audiolab 9000A is capable of driving Polk R700s to a 100db loudness or will Yamaha and Denon will be better at the task?
Thanks for your detailed review. Will the 9000A be a good match for B&W 705s3?
Yes
I have a 9000A on home demo running with 705 series 2 and it really is quite nice. I did have a pair of the series 3 for a little while and I guess it could be argued that they're slightly easier on the ear in terms of high frequencies. Although I prefer using the audio lab with a pair of totem sttaf speakers as they are even more forgiving on the top end and that's my preference.
Always love hearing Kristi’s thoughts. I also thought the amp was quite sticking.
Thanks! As always I need a HDMI on any receiver as a part of my A/V system. Glad they did a beautiful job, but...
would you be doing a comparison of 9000P and 9000Q vs 9000A?
It's a step up for sure, even including bass and treble management ..
your reviews are perfekt!!
Thankyou both once again for another top review.
I think it missing hdmi is a massive loss as in todays age hdmi is a must have as just to connect to a tv, hdmi makes it so easy.
Nice review. Re phono preamp, I would quibble, that if you are really into records, you will get a dedicated phono preamp. That of course goes against the all in one box integrated approach, and I admit, I am a separates guy. BUT: separate phono preamp make a massive difference and I would not accept just a built in option in an integrated. Therefore, If you are into vinyl, ignore the phono characteristics of those integrated, and get a dedicated phono preamp. Loads of options ... my 2c.
Don't agree to this assumption. Yes, of course, throw a grand at a phono stage and it will sound better. But I tried a few at the same price as the whole 6000A and none of them sounded 'better' than the integrated stage (with a mid tier deck, OM20). Let your ears decide.
@@mike_lowndes For starters, most integrated only have MM capable phono stage, including the 6/9000A. Most people who get more seriously into vinyl get a MC cartridge. I use a SoundSmith Zephyr MIMC* ($2K), also have an Ortofon 2M black MC ($700) as a backup; SS has quite a bit more detail than the 2Mblack. With those cartridges I heard very noticeable improvements from first a built-in of a Rotel RA1572 integrated ($2K: not applicable to the SS MC cartridge), then to a Vincent PHO701 ($700) phono stage, to an EAT eglow petite ($1500) phono stage. Consider upgrading even further. TT is a VPI super prime scout, will upgrade eventually as well to something with dual arm option, lusting for SS strain gauge cartridge/system.
Great review as always. I’m less fussed about hdmi than most it would appear, but in the UK the 9000a (£2000) is three times the price of the 6000a (£650) so I’m disappointed that the sound isn’t much better than the 6000a. Might have to look at the Roksan.
Supernait.
Excellent review again. Question...why do you think Audiolab avoids HDMI like the plague? I had handshake issues concerning HDR with my Marantz AV7706 to the point that I removed my TV, and my projector...bought a newer projector and went screen only....no problems now.
I honestly do not know why brands make the decisions they make. I'd be a heck of a lot richer if I did :).
I had the Toshiba Gigabeat, which inspired the Microsoft Zune. It was a great player and introduced video playback before the iPod video came out. I also had the Motorola Rokr, which was the first phone to connect to iTunes before they decided to develop the iPhone. What about the original Roku streaming box, I had that and you had to hardwire them via Ethernet, inspired other streaming devices and I believe the integration of streaming apps directly into the TV.
Please Andrew, prepare a comparative review between the 6000a/7000a/9000a audiolab, I am interested to know your opinion.Good video.
You'll find that here: ruclips.net/video/dazsHJLygps/видео.html
Great review, and yep - why no tone controls???
The less components that the source signal has to travel through, the less degradation of the signal as it travels to the next component.
Hi! Have you compared the Omnia to Technics SA C600? Which one sounds better in your opinion? Thank you
How do you bi amp the speakers?
Great review still loving my 6000a and Heresys based on your recommendation. Looking for some suggestions of other speakers in same price point to swap in and out.
Great review. Good design. Braun / Dieter Rams vibes. The display graphics, though.
I totally agree with this new 9000A not having any newer features that make sense for 2023 that for twice the price it does not offer twice the sound at least. I do think though this works out even better for someone like me who uses a bluesound node or some kind of external streamer. Just gotta plug it in through COAX to take advantage of the new DAC this 9000A offers and enjoy the set up to the max. I'm happy with my 6000A + Node combo on my Heresy IVs, if the extra cash is available in the near future I'd love to try out the 9000A for sure.