Excellent honest review. I own the AO300 and the AE200 ... Both amazing, but better interface on the AO300. Fine tune the EQ filter settings can tune in with whatever speakers you're using. These SMSL Amps allow you to focus on other components. SMSL have a new CD player, and I think I heard talk of a turntable too. Their desktop speakers are cool, but their amps exceed them.
Just bought one and I am using it to power some Elac Uni Fi UB5 speakers I just picked up. After reviewing the speakers, I decided to order this amplifier because most of the reviews on the UB5 recommended a lot of power. I received the speakers and set them up on desk with Douk Audio ST-01 Pro. That little amp was doing a good job driving the speakers. I then received the SMSL AO300 and set it up. Sound is great, turns up louder than I care to hear. Very neutral sound, trying different sound settings, one thing for sure, the UB5's have plenty of bass output, almost have to turn it down. Very happy with both the SMSL and Elac speakers. Now I have to find somewhere to use the Douk Audio amplifier.
Thank you so much for the detailed and insightful review. I really apricate headphone info (as you said it is MIA for some reason), and the description of the sound the amp produces. the I would be very curious as to compare this with the soon to be available WiiM amp (purported to be $300-ish). That would be minus the headphone amp, but have the streamer and HDMI Arc/Sub Out/stereo amp with a TI 3255. I have long been a SMSL fanboy having owned SU-8S dac, DA-9 amp, and C200 headphone dac/amp. Neutral and "soft" are the key words when describing the SMSL house sound. I really disliked the Topping DX3 pro+, and the Aiyima sound is clear but not enough "umph" on the bottom end, at least with the stock op amps.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Yes, I already have the Fosi V3 with sub out. So upgrading to this with hdmi arc would be beneficial, but a center channel like 3.1 or 5.1 would be even better. I will wait for it.
It is a stereo DAC. So no Dolby or DTS multi channel audio. Sub out is derived from stereo through a LPF and not the LFE channel. Centre channel is difficult and useless at this point.
Hi! Loved your review. I purchased the Ao300, which is currently being shipped, and have a few questions. I bought this amp for the DCA Aeon 2 Noire headphones, but I read in some reviews that there is 'distortion' from the headphone output. Is this really noticeable? This is my first time buying a headphone amp, so how does it compare to similarly priced models like the Fiio K7 or SMSL C200 in terms of performance? Thanks.
The AO300 is more of a speaker amp than a headphone amp. But the headphone output is decent enough for most headphones. It will distort at high volume levels on some headphones. I haven't heard the C2oo. I haven't heard the K7 in a long time and don't recall enough to give a fair comparison.
Hey guys! Need some help on powering this using a DJ mixer. AO300 hooked up to the ELAC Unifi UB5s. AO300 connected via RCA to Xone23 DJ mixer (connecting to the monitor section as the MASTER is XLR only) which is connected to my two Technics 1200 mk2s. I’m confused why when I toggle through the menu there is no “line input” or an RCA input selection on the A0300. Can someone please assist me on my setup chain? What am I missing?
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks. I had tried all the inputs even that one. Tried it again and the reason I skipped over it, is because it was EXTREMELY quiet. Have to max out my monitor and input levels on the xone23. Then with the A0300 sound level at 50/60 I’m only getting about 69dbs standing 6 ft away. Do I need a more powerful amp to get the desired sound and headroom?
@ericanderson4490 Interesting. I didn't test in your scenario. It does seem like the speakers are a bit demanding and you may need a more powerful amp.
@@TheHonestAudiophile may be right. Doubt it’s going to make a difference but waiting to get xlr to rca to test out the Master XLR outs on the XONE23 as opposed to the monitor outs. I thought I could bridge the gap of bedroom dj and audiophile but it’s seeming to be more difficult than expected. Unfortunately not many people on reddit/youtube have experience doing this. :/
I apologize, I was thinking of another amp. You're correct it does have sub out, my apologies. I don't know the answers to your question about bass management and high pass filter. I don't have the AO300 currently as it's out on loan with another reviewer.
hello dave. i was impressed by the video. so i bought 1. it arrived today. mine has what appears to be tiny bubbles on the display does yours, or is there a protective film to peel off? it would really help out if you could let me know in the comments. thanks
Hi! Recently I bought a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo turntable paired with an Art Pro Audio DJPRE II Phono Preamplifier. Now, I am thinking of connecting the system to good passive speakers. Some research lead me to ELAC Debut Reference DBR62 Bookshelf Speakers as they had good reviews and are currently available at good price. I was thinking of getting SMSL AO300 as it has cool features, is powerful and sounds well. My question is, would this setup work with all the mentioned parts? Mainly I would listen to the turntable or stream some music over Bluetooth.
I have Elac DBR62 and normally use a M400 dac into a SA400 amp. Got this unit from Amazon by mistake - thought I'd try it anyway - and find it is NOT going to replace my reference setup as before BUT was WAY surprised at how good this does work.....VERY VERY good... I could live with it as is...seriously for the $$ a NO brainer......BTW the review is spot on extended, detail, air very low bass a little soft but hey for the price or with a powered sub...probably won't notice it
Considering to buy it for my office desk, was wondering if you can use hesdset an speakers at the same time with different sources? Fe headset>usb speaker>toslink
I've never done it so I don't know how it all works but bridgingn acts as a power amplifier for one channel by using two channels of output to output double the power level via one channel.
@@TheHonestAudiophile i received it. Connect it to Paradigm monitor loudspeakers and its beautiful 😃 and the power, it can go very loud... Playing the doors, so clean and neutral. Can't wait for Revel bookshelf speakers to arrive.
Thanks, Dave! As a power amplifier, how does it compare to the Fosi Audio V3 that you reviewed, and as a headphone amplifier, how does it compare to the Topping A90D that you reviewed?
I have a question for anyone reading this comment, the stereo I've been using for quite a long time recently died on me, and I live on a very fixed income and spending two to three hundred dollars is something that's going to take me awhile to save up to replace the one I had, I don't know much about class d amplifiers other than reviews like this, is it worth it to just save up the extra 60 bucks and get a Yamaha as 301 which is another stereo I was interested in or are these class d amps just as good as far as sound and reliability? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Also I will be using a Samsung Galaxy tablet as my audio source and using qobuz end title through the USP audio player pro app using the Samsung USB type-c to 3.5 mm headphone adapter connected to the stereo with a 3.5 mm to dual RCA adapter.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks, but then the digital source must enter into the external dac, so if it doesnt have hdmi, i cant use hdmi, that is correct?
@@TheHonestAudiophile i know, i ment if i'm using external dac that dont have hdmi, will the hdmi connecting to the ao300 will work? doesnt the digital source need to be connected to the external dac?
@@TheHonestAudiophile It's my first actual headphone. I currently using fosi as dac. But I'm like a jpop and rock n roll perosn. Do you think HD660s2 is okay? I like the feeling of stage and heavy base around my ear.
@jasonoctane6372 it's not a bassy headphone but a neutral representation of the bass. I enjoy it with those genres of music. Curious what your impressions are and what they'll be if you change DAC and amp.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Super clear and sound headphone. But when I listen to orchestra or free bird. It does not have that much of sound stage for me. The voice from person is sharp. Do you have some bassy headphone recommand for trap music and rock n roll?
I did and the sound is very good, but it depends on the audio source, of course. I tested it with some old dvds and the sound sound was ok even with an added sub (I'm using elacs b6.2) but then I watched some Netflix (Reptiles) and it sounded absolutely fantastic, almost cinema like experience. The only thing that annoyed me is the remote lacking a play/pause button which I find hard to believe. I'm using every single port except for the coaxial and I really don't notice any mayor audio differences between them. Overall this is an all rounder and I couldn't be happier with my purchase given how versatile this thing is.
That is the million dollar question. The hotspot news of this is the hdmi input reserved so far just for receivers with worse audio quality unless you pay four times more or even more. You know, when you have to process video and audio with only one power supply you are resigned to have more THD and any receiver manufacturer can’t deny it. That is why HDMI audio for me was reserved for that kind of equipment… until I heard of THIS SMSL. BUT DAVE please confirm what others said…. HDMI ARC DOES NOT WORK WELL. They say with tv control the volume control jumps too much between steps. Could it be fixed by new firmware? Or do we have to wait until second version? I don’t have the product, just read reports
Great review I've been looking at this to power my Sennheiser HD 650 and I couldn't find anything that told me how much power the headphone jack has you got tons of headphones I can see on the wall so I'm not worried about that anymore. Does it have a gain switch into the menu for the headphones ?
Hi to all, i want to make a question because i want to buy the smsl AO300. Has anyone experience any problem in high volume (over 42) because in a video of z reviews when he pushed the volume over 42 the smsl AO300 stoped plays music.
I've not encountered that issue. Very interesting. The AO300 has over current protection though so it could sense that too much power, I'm not sure though just a guess.
EF400 lacks speaker outs and all the bells and whistles the AO300 has. But the sound is an upgrade so it would make a good pairing. But again I am going off memory as I don't have them to test side by side.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Most likely. It keeps two signals in the same frequency range to add to each other, or to cancel each other is perfectly out of phase. It makes perfect sense as real subs are usually used below 50Hz, and I even prefer below 40Hz. Thanks for the info. That amp is the perfect bedroom device for watching TV on speakers and listening to music thru bluetooth. Very tempting.
If you right click on your video and select - additional settings and than stats for nerds, you’ll see that your video is -12.9 db from YT’s target. You can raise your average loudness in your NLE by 10db. The standard for loudness in BS.1770-4 @-14 db. A good target is to land at ~ -2 db.
As I have done from the first video on this channel and will continue to do to the end of this channel; I don't edit the audio or video in software! I upload directly from my phone to RUclips. I add the chapters and links with the assistance of the RUclips Editor. I use a USB Rode Podcaster microphone because the phone microphone sounds terrible. I recently upgraded phones and that changed settings that I am working/figuring out. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hope you see my comment I have the smsl ad18 and I bought this ao300 expecting an upgrade What should I expect as an upgrade? Or do you think it’s going to sound the same? Most of what I use it for is on IEMs Kz brand and some Klipsch speakers I installed everything and it seems that it’s missing something Going to double check connections but it’s very straight forward and not complicated Thanks
Sorry I have no experience with the SMSL AD18 so I don't know how it compares or what differences there are. The SMSL AO300 is mostly a speaker amp with a headphone out that is decently good.
Здравствуйте. Как вы думайте подойдёт s.m.s.l ao300 для ас Wharfedale diamond 330? У меня есть s.m.s.l a300 играет с Wharfedale diamond 320, мне очень нравится.
The AO300 will have better overall resolution than the PM6007. More accurate at pin pointing instruments and probably excel in the midrange over the PM6007 especially with the vocals. Regardless to say the PM6007 is still an excellent amplifier and worth keeping if you own one.
@@TheHonestAudiophile it is a nice piece good price. My next purchase is either this or the loxji d40 pro which looks amazing. Just a bit more in price but looks great.
Thanks for the review. I just ordered a pair online in part due to your review. One thing I am wondering however is whether you also experience an audible pop when switching sources or eq presets. Has this happened to you or is the AO300 overall very quiet? Furthermore, will you be reviewing the Loxjie A40 in the future? I only learnt about its existence after I had placed my order for the AO300, but given the fact that the A40 has both Phono and a lower price it seems like a good competitor to the AO300.
@k3v11n There's no AO300EX. You probably mean the DO300EX, which is a DAC, a headphone amp and a preamp, not an integrated amplifier like this one. So you cant compare the two, as they're different devices doing different things.
Thanks for the review! Very nice and detailed! Subbed!! Got 2 questions if you get a chance. Do you think something like this would be better than a traditional receiver like the Yamaha a-s301? How would you rate the internal DAC? Would you say it’s worth adding on something like an smsl su-1?
Keep in mind I don't use a traditional receiver at all, I have no experience with them. If you're using the traditional receiver to play music only in 2.0 setup the A0300 could be an upgrade. But if you're using for gaming, movie consumption and TV in a surround sound 2.1 or larger setup it won't compare. As for the internal DAC, sound impressions were based on the internal DAC and the outputs. I can't compare to any receivers as I haven't used them. I also don't recall the SU-1. Sorry. Thanks for the questions. Sorry I wasn't much help; this is an area I'm very limited knowledge and experience. Thanks for watching and subscribing, much appreciated.
Users of the Smsl A300 state it can have a bit of white noise when the volume is above 60% with no music playing, Does the AO300 have the same or any noise ? You mention it does 330 Watts in BTL mode, but i dont see anything about BTL mode on this unit. Have you confused it with the A300 which def has BTL mode ?
I didn't use it in BTL mode. I don't/didn't raise to Max volume with/without music playing. Only time I heard a little noise was with super sensitive IEM from hp output.
Have heard some complaints that the sound quality isn't as good over the AUX input, I would be running both digital and analog sources so I was curious if you used the line in at all and what your thoughts were?
Thank you for video. I bought a second hand, SMSL A300 which has the same power section and with zero volume, a i can hear a little medium frequency tone (very low) , not just hiss - What about the AO300? can you please try, hearing near the tweeter ? Thank you :)
I don't leave my gear on after listening. I always shut gear off and I always turn volume all the way down when not in used. I don't hear any noticeable hisses or other noises. But volume is only raised when music is playing.
@@TheHonestAudiophile I can hear it also when volume is at zero - however, i turn off everything when not in use, but when i simply change "track" i can hear it.. very lighly, but i hear it - Thank you
Yes, its an integrated amp. But not directly because of what you mentioned. Its because there's a preamp and a power amp stage in it. Yes, you wont find these inputs in a power amp (with the exception of volume control, as all PA power amps for example, have volume controls for each channel), but thats not what makes an amp being integrated.
I didn't have two AO300 to test btl mode but specs says it can. From what I understand it is the same amp as the A300 and that has btl mode. Maybe I am mistaken but from what I was informed on spec sheet there is btl mode. But I can't confirm that it works as I don't have two AO300 to test. Thanks for watching and commenting.
@@TheHonestAudiophile is your room dark? I think maybe having more light might help. Also check if the phone camera goes to night mode while you're recording.
So because I enjoy a product and honestly describe my opinion and recommend it for others to enjoy, that is being a salesman? No funds, no commission, no SMSL or Aoshida input was provided for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. No external impressions or opinions were given to me to include in this video. The purchase link provided isn't affiliated. Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing.
@johngault-9957 Dude, are you kidding? You want an example of a reviewer who is a salesman, check out Passion for Sound. You are barking up the wrong tree if you think Dave is a salesman.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Keep doing what you are doing! People need to watch more of your content and actually understand where you are coming from. Us who know and follow your channel all know you are honest and not even remotely close to being a salesman/shill.
Audiophile sound can be found in any price range. But yes, this is an "entry level" device that offers a bit of the audiophile experience. Thanks for watching and commenting.
As an audiophile I'm very content with my setup, the Mytek Liberty DAC ii and Mytek HPA. Headphones and IEM as well, Audeze LCD-5, CTM Da Vinci X and a few others. If I wasn't a reviewer, those items would still be my end game. I don't swap around gear chasing after the unicorns, I understand and know what I seek and I have found it. The term audiophile and what it means has been misconstrued for a long time. Here's a link to a mini-series I did on the subject that will help explain it better. ruclips.net/p/PLFpndZVz25TKS6PyW4QJcqbT6WDiJ08c3&si=qZ9f6dlH9X3u59-O Here's a link to a playlist about getting to know me, an audiophile, better that has a lot of useful information that can be applied to other audio channels as well. ruclips.net/p/PLFpndZVz25TJfPKx-OLMpovQP-QeNatDh&si=4bd557plR2a1dV1f Please take the time to watch these videos and I hope you find them helpful and educational. Here's a link to my website where you can find additional information: www.thehonestaudiophile.com/ Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing.
The product is shown a lot throughout the video. The product is a bit heavy and after 20 consecutive takes, the arms tend to get a a bit sore holding up the product. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Excellent review! The volume is better as well. Thanks for all your hard work.
Thanks for the feedback, much appreciated. Glad you enjoy the channel content.
Just ordered one to pair with KEF Q150s. Excited to try it out, thanks for the awesome review!
Awesome! Look forward to hearing your impressions.
Any update on how this pairing went? I'm looking at doing the same combo.
@@LuminatX Hey, so far so good. I am by no means an audiophile and i like the sound. I am listening from 1m distance and the sound is really good.
do you hear a hiss when it's not playing music?
Excellent honest review. I own the AO300 and the AE200 ... Both amazing, but better interface on the AO300.
Fine tune the EQ filter settings can tune in with whatever speakers you're using.
These SMSL Amps allow you to focus on other components. SMSL have a new CD player, and I think I heard talk of a turntable too.
Their desktop speakers are cool, but their amps exceed them.
Glad you enjoy the A0300. Thanks for the thoughts.
do you hear a hiss when not playing music?
I don't hear a hiss with my Martin Logan Motion 15 or Wharfedale D310.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks man. Cheers!
My pleasure, you're welcome
Yes. Lisa at Aoshida is great! Very helpful.
Just bought one and I am using it to power some Elac Uni Fi UB5 speakers I just picked up. After reviewing the speakers, I decided to order this amplifier because most of the reviews on the UB5 recommended a lot of power. I received the speakers and set them up on desk with Douk Audio ST-01 Pro. That little amp was doing a good job driving the speakers. I then received the SMSL AO300 and set it up. Sound is great, turns up louder than I care to hear. Very neutral sound, trying different sound settings, one thing for sure, the UB5's have plenty of bass output, almost have to turn it down. Very happy with both the SMSL and Elac speakers. Now I have to find somewhere to use the Douk Audio amplifier.
Glad you enjoy the AO300. Thanks for the impressions.
Thank you so much for the detailed and insightful review. I really apricate headphone info (as you said it is MIA for some reason), and the description of the sound the amp produces. the I would be very curious as to compare this with the soon to be available WiiM amp (purported to be $300-ish). That would be minus the headphone amp, but have the streamer and HDMI Arc/Sub Out/stereo amp with a TI 3255. I have long been a SMSL fanboy having owned SU-8S dac, DA-9 amp, and C200 headphone dac/amp. Neutral and "soft" are the key words when describing the SMSL house sound. I really disliked the Topping DX3 pro+, and the Aiyima sound is clear but not enough "umph" on the bottom end, at least with the stock op amps.
Great review.
Thanks!
Hope this will be on sale on Black Friday.
That would be awesome 👍
Since it has hdmi arc, lots of us will be using it with our TV. Hence it would be great if they include center channel speaker out.
That would be interesting addition for sure. At least it has sub out something missing from a lot of speaker amps.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Yes, I already have the Fosi V3 with sub out. So upgrading to this with hdmi arc would be beneficial, but a center channel like 3.1 or 5.1 would be even better. I will wait for it.
It is a stereo DAC. So no Dolby or DTS multi channel audio. Sub out is derived from stereo through a LPF and not the LFE channel. Centre channel is difficult and useless at this point.
Thanks for the video . I can’t decide between the SMSL AO300 or the HA1. What do you suggest .
Sorry, I haven't heard the SMSL RAW HA1
Hi! Loved your review.
I purchased the Ao300, which is currently being shipped, and have a few questions. I bought this amp for the DCA Aeon 2 Noire headphones, but I read in some reviews that there is 'distortion' from the headphone output. Is this really noticeable?
This is my first time buying a headphone amp, so how does it compare to similarly priced models like the Fiio K7 or SMSL C200 in terms of performance?
Thanks.
The AO300 is more of a speaker amp than a headphone amp. But the headphone output is decent enough for most headphones. It will distort at high volume levels on some headphones.
I haven't heard the C2oo. I haven't heard the K7 in a long time and don't recall enough to give a fair comparison.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for your reply 😊
It helped me a lot thanks
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Hey guys!
Need some help on powering this using a DJ mixer.
AO300 hooked up to the ELAC Unifi UB5s. AO300 connected via RCA to Xone23 DJ mixer (connecting to the monitor section as the MASTER is XLR only) which is connected to my two Technics 1200 mk2s.
I’m confused why when I toggle through the menu there is no “line input” or an RCA input selection on the A0300.
Can someone please assist me on my setup chain?
What am I missing?
Select Aux In for the RCA input.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks. I had tried all the inputs even that one. Tried it again and the reason I skipped over it, is because it was EXTREMELY quiet. Have to max out my monitor and input levels on the xone23. Then with the A0300 sound level at 50/60 I’m only getting about 69dbs standing 6 ft away.
Do I need a more powerful amp to get the desired sound and headroom?
@@TheHonestAudiophile honestly just sounds terrible over all in comparison to Bluetooth.
@ericanderson4490 Interesting. I didn't test in your scenario. It does seem like the speakers are a bit demanding and you may need a more powerful amp.
@@TheHonestAudiophile may be right. Doubt it’s going to make a difference but waiting to get xlr to rca to test out the Master XLR outs on the XONE23 as opposed to the monitor outs. I thought I could bridge the gap of bedroom dj and audiophile but it’s seeming to be more difficult than expected. Unfortunately not many people on reddit/youtube have experience doing this. :/
Few questions: how does it compare to DL200, can it power Hifiman planar and HD600?
Sorry haven't heard the DL200. Power abilities is in the hp output chapter.
Any thoughts on this amplifier vs the Loxjie A40 for use as a 2.1 system only? I read online a lot of people having issues with the SMSL sub out.
Sorry haven't heard the Loxjie A40.
@@TheHonestAudiophile But no issues when using the Sub Out I am assuming? Just want some reassurance before I buy this thing.
@Puggs420 I've had no issues, use it daily.
Fyi, SMSL and Loxjie belong to the same parent company, and the AO300 and A40 both share almost the same internals/PCB.
Hopefully u still replt but does the sub out at least have bass management for the highs? Does it apply a high pass for the mains?
AO300 doesn't have sub out.
There's a port on the back and u even said subwoofer out tho?@@TheHonestAudiophile
I apologize, I was thinking of another amp. You're correct it does have sub out, my apologies. I don't know the answers to your question about bass management and high pass filter. I don't have the AO300 currently as it's out on loan with another reviewer.
Great review! Looks like a really good option for consideration. Have a great day! 😊👍
Thanks 👍
Was the operation of the remote control acceptable? If I purchased the AO300, the remote at 8ft away would be used on a daily/hourly basis.
Yeah it works well like most remotes. I mostly used it at my desk and around my small office room. No issues.
Thanks for the quick response. Most reviewers don't cover remote operation, so it's good to get a solid recommendation!
@trevorbartram5473 my pleasure, you're welcome
Is the sub-woofer passive or active? Thanks…
Can you help me decide? I'm thinking of getting A0300 using Cirrus logic dac vs DO100 pro with ESS dac paired with DA-6 amp. Which sounds better?
To be honest I don't recall anything about the DO100 but I still use the AO300.
Do you think it is good choice for ny Wharfedale evo 4.1 ? My main amplifier is.the Denon 600ne ,, or i will loose some musicality, and imaging?
Sorry I haven't heard or uses the Denon 600ne or Evo 4.1.
I honestly don't know how the AO300 would compare or perform.
Would it fit for Teufel Ultime 40?
Sorry I've never heard of the Teufel Ultime 40
How would this pair with Sierra 2 EX, near field listening....trying to find an all in one with sub management
I've no experience with Sierra 2 EX. But it works well with my speakers in near field setting.
Great review, just wondering is it compatible with iPhone using usb-c?
I don't know, I'm an Android user.
hello dave. i was impressed by the video. so i bought 1. it arrived today. mine has what appears to be tiny bubbles on the display does yours, or is there a protective film to peel off? it would really help out if you could let me know in the comments. thanks
It's been a few months since I received mine. I think there was a protective screen on it. My screen is glossy.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks dave.
My pleasure, you're welcome.
Hi! Recently I bought a Pro-Ject Debut Carbon Evo turntable paired with an Art Pro Audio DJPRE II Phono Preamplifier. Now, I am thinking of connecting the system to good passive speakers. Some research lead me to ELAC Debut Reference DBR62 Bookshelf Speakers as they had good reviews and are currently available at good price. I was thinking of getting SMSL AO300 as it has cool features, is powerful and sounds well. My question is, would this setup work with all the mentioned parts? Mainly I would listen to the turntable or stream some music over Bluetooth.
No idea, I've no experience with vinyl. I use speakers in limited capacity just on my desk. Sorry but I am not the source to answer your question.
I asked friend and fellow reviewer @intoitreviews about this and he said it should work. He's way more versed in vinyl then I am.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you for taking time and confirming it with a friend. I really appreciate it! Excited for the setup now!
My pleasure, you're welcome
I have Elac DBR62 and normally use a M400 dac into a SA400 amp. Got this unit from Amazon by mistake - thought I'd try it anyway - and find it is NOT going to replace my reference setup as before BUT was WAY surprised at how good this does work.....VERY VERY good... I could live with it as is...seriously for the $$ a NO brainer......BTW the review is spot on extended, detail, air very low bass a little soft but hey for the price or with a powered sub...probably won't notice it
Considering to buy it for my office desk, was wondering if you can use hesdset an speakers at the same time with different sources? Fe headset>usb speaker>toslink
Can only one use one input and one output at same time.
No sub out what a shame unless I connect both outputs to low level to my rel sub
Wiim Amp is the best comparison to this... would be nice to your insight when compared.
if a Wiim Amp is provided for review or the funds become available, I'll gladly do a review and comparison.
Tell me if several inputs are connected, does it remember the selected one after a complete shutdown?
Yes, it remembers previous input selection.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Thanks!
@tipok1929 my pleasure, you're welcome
How does this compare to the Wiim amp?
Sorry haven't heard the Wiim amp.
Hi, one more question please😅. You say: it can also do in bridge btl is 330. Can you explain what does it mean?
I've never done it so I don't know how it all works but bridgingn acts as a power amplifier for one channel by using two channels of output to output double the power level via one channel.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks to your review i'm planning to buy it
My pleasure, you're welcome. I look forward to hearing your impressions.
@@TheHonestAudiophile i received it. Connect it to Paradigm monitor loudspeakers and its beautiful 😃 and the power, it can go very loud... Playing the doors, so clean and neutral. Can't wait for Revel bookshelf speakers to arrive.
@upitshak awesome 👍 Glad you enjoy the AO300.
Thanks, Dave! As a power amplifier, how does it compare to the Fosi Audio V3 that you reviewed, and as a headphone amplifier, how does it compare to the Topping A90D that you reviewed?
V3 isn't near as powerful and isn't as well controlled with higher volumes. The A90D is little more detailed and resolving.
Thank you! @@TheHonestAudiophile
@sobrcelt my pleasure, you're welcome
Great review! I am trying to decide between the AO300 and AL200 for my PC. Any advice?
Sorry haven't heard the AL200
I have a question for anyone reading this comment, the stereo I've been using for quite a long time recently died on me, and I live on a very fixed income and spending two to three hundred dollars is something that's going to take me awhile to save up to replace the one I had, I don't know much about class d amplifiers other than reviews like this, is it worth it to just save up the extra 60 bucks and get a Yamaha as 301 which is another stereo I was interested in or are these class d amps just as good as far as sound and reliability? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Also I will be using a Samsung Galaxy tablet as my audio source and using qobuz end title through the USP audio player pro app using the Samsung USB type-c to 3.5 mm headphone adapter connected to the stereo with a 3.5 mm to dual RCA adapter.
@pepeimwald538 Thanks for that detailed info, Pepe!
@pepeimwald538 thank you and happy holidays.
Hi, love this review, thanks. wanted to understand, you also connect it to external dac's? can clarify how please?
Yes you can connect external DAC via the various inputs like RCA, optical.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks, but then the digital source must enter into the external dac, so if it doesnt have hdmi, i cant use hdmi, that is correct?
@upitshak it has HDMI arc
@@TheHonestAudiophile i know, i ment if i'm using external dac that dont have hdmi, will the hdmi connecting to the ao300 will work? doesnt the digital source need to be connected to the external dac?
@upitshak as mentioned in the video I didn't test HDMI as I don't have a device compatible
What is your sound like with movies and television series?
I don't listen or watch a lot of movies and show on this but the limited ones I do sounded as I described in the video.
I have hd660s2, should I get the SMSL AO300 or Fiio K7?
Personally I'd select the AO300 as it's a little more versatile and has a slightly more refined sound.
@@TheHonestAudiophile It's my first actual headphone. I currently using fosi as dac. But I'm like a jpop and rock n roll perosn. Do you think HD660s2 is okay? I like the feeling of stage and heavy base around my ear.
@jasonoctane6372 it's not a bassy headphone but a neutral representation of the bass. I enjoy it with those genres of music.
Curious what your impressions are and what they'll be if you change DAC and amp.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Super clear and sound headphone. But when I listen to orchestra or free bird. It does not have that much of sound stage for me. The voice from person is sharp. Do you have some bassy headphone recommand for trap music and rock n roll?
@@TheHonestAudiophile I heard hifiman ananda might be a better choice for me? and the clamping force is less than sennhisier
Did you try out the HDMI? I think this is the biggest selling point for a sub $300 unit.
Unfortunately I wasn't able to test HDMI. My desktop setup doesn't have HDMI output.
@@TheHonestAudiophile great review. I’m sure they will sell a bunch of these.
I did and the sound is very good, but it depends on the audio source, of course. I tested it with some old dvds and the sound sound was ok even with an added sub (I'm using elacs b6.2) but then I watched some Netflix (Reptiles) and it sounded absolutely fantastic, almost cinema like experience. The only thing that annoyed me is the remote lacking a play/pause button which I find hard to believe. I'm using every single port except for the coaxial and I really don't notice any mayor audio differences between them. Overall this is an all rounder and I couldn't be happier with my purchase given how versatile this thing is.
That is the million dollar question. The hotspot news of this is the hdmi input reserved so far just for receivers with worse audio quality unless you pay four times more or even more. You know, when you have to process video and audio with only one power supply you are resigned to have more THD and any receiver manufacturer can’t deny it. That is why HDMI audio for me was reserved for that kind of equipment… until I heard of THIS SMSL. BUT DAVE please confirm what others said…. HDMI ARC DOES NOT WORK WELL. They say with tv control the volume control jumps too much between steps. Could it be fixed by new firmware? Or do we have to wait until second version? I don’t have the product, just read reports
@@leonardopapantoniou4227 HDMI is unfortunately not a native interface; many factors can affect compatibility, from bandwidth to cable length...
Great review I've been looking at this to power my Sennheiser HD 650 and I couldn't find anything that told me how much power the headphone jack has you got tons of headphones I can see on the wall so I'm not worried about that anymore. Does it have a gain switch into the menu for the headphones ?
There's no changeable gain.
Hi Dave,
Does the EQ also affect the headphone out or just the speaker outs?
EQ and filters can be used with both outputs.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you Dave :)
@jorcorex my pleasure, you're welcome
Hi to all, i want to make a question because i want to buy the smsl AO300. Has anyone experience any problem in high volume (over 42) because in a video of z reviews when he pushed the volume over 42 the smsl AO300 stoped plays music.
I've not encountered that issue. Very interesting. The AO300 has over current protection though so it could sense that too much power, I'm not sure though just a guess.
Anything like this but fully balanced and with EQ tone control out there?
Not that I am aware of.
@levanni89 No
Would this be a good match for the elac carina’s?
I've not hear the Elac Carina but I don't see why not.
I am currently using w fosi audio bt20a i just wanted to upgrade since i also upgraded my speakers
Sorry haven't heard BT20a.
Подскажите если подключены несколько входов он запоминает выбранный после полного выключения?
Yes, it remembers previous input selection.
@@TheHonestAudiophile тонкокомпенсация есть?
Hey dave do you think the ao300 can power a t60 argon since its very demanding?
Thanks and more power!
Hmmm good question. I don't have one to test but I think it would be okay. The T60 is easier to drive then some other planars.
Last question if you may - this or shell out a lil bit more for the ef400? 😅
EF400 lacks speaker outs and all the bells and whistles the AO300 has. But the sound is an upgrade so it would make a good pairing. But again I am going off memory as I don't have them to test side by side.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you very much. youre awesome dave!
@hamjabuns my pleasure, you're welcome
"High pass at 50Hz". Is it a mode for when a subwoofer is used, or is the amp not just amplifying below 50Hz?
It is for sub woofer use,it attenuates signals so that there isn't crossover bleed.
If I understand it correctly.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Most likely. It keeps two signals in the same frequency range to add to each other, or to cancel each other is perfectly out of phase. It makes perfect sense as real subs are usually used below 50Hz, and I even prefer below 40Hz. Thanks for the info. That amp is the perfect bedroom device for watching TV on speakers and listening to music thru bluetooth. Very tempting.
@leevuong8843 my pleasure, you're welcome
I had an smsl a300 paired to my wharfdale evo 4.2.
Could this be a good replacement or I’ll just get another a300.
Sorry I have no experience with A300 or the Evo 4.2. The AO300 sounds good with my Wharfdale D310.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thank you
My pleasure, you're welcome
If you right click on your video and select - additional settings and than stats for nerds, you’ll see that your video is -12.9 db from YT’s target. You can raise your average loudness in your NLE by 10db. The standard for loudness in BS.1770-4 @-14 db. A good target is to land at ~ -2 db.
As I have done from the first video on this channel and will continue to do to the end of this channel; I don't edit the audio or video in software! I upload directly from my phone to RUclips. I add the chapters and links with the assistance of the RUclips Editor. I use a USB Rode Podcaster microphone because the phone microphone sounds terrible.
I recently upgraded phones and that changed settings that I am working/figuring out.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Hope you see my comment
I have the smsl ad18 and I bought this ao300 expecting an upgrade
What should I expect as an upgrade?
Or do you think it’s going to sound the same?
Most of what I use it for is on IEMs
Kz brand and some Klipsch speakers
I installed everything and it seems that it’s missing something
Going to double check connections but it’s very straight forward and not complicated
Thanks
Sorry I have no experience with the SMSL AD18 so I don't know how it compares or what differences there are. The SMSL AO300 is mostly a speaker amp with a headphone out that is decently good.
@@TheHonestAudiophileoh wow.
I appreciate your prompt reply
Thanks a lot and take care
Love your channel!
My pleasure, you're welcome. Glad you enjoy the channel content.
Здравствуйте. Как вы думайте подойдёт s.m.s.l ao300 для ас Wharfedale diamond 330? У меня есть s.m.s.l a300 играет с Wharfedale diamond 320, мне очень нравится.
It works well with my Wharfedale D310 but I have no experience with the Diamond 320. I see no reason why it woudn't though.
Почему такие усилители практически не греются относительно класс АВ.
That's a good question that I don't have the answer to.
How would it compare to a Fosi bt30d?
Sorry haven't heard the BT30D
Nice review sir, how will this pair with Kef Q150? Could this little amp push it ?
Sorry I don't know, I have no experience with the Q150
Does this sound better than Marantz PM 6007, coz i see the power rated is higher 80wx2, Marantz is only 45wx2?
Sorry, I haven't heard the Marantz PM 6007.
@@TheHonestAudiophile thanks for your reply, i believe this would be much better sounding than fosi v3?
The AO300 is an upgrade to the V3 in my opinion.
The AO300 will have better overall resolution than the PM6007. More accurate at pin pointing instruments and probably excel in the midrange over the PM6007 especially with the vocals. Regardless to say the PM6007 is still an excellent amplifier and worth keeping if you own one.
is the 4.4 on the front truely balanced ? great vid as usual sir.
I don't know, it isn't mentioned in the spec sheet. Does it really matter though, the AO300 sounds fantastic in my opinion.
@@TheHonestAudiophile it is a nice piece good price. My next purchase is either this or the loxji d40 pro which looks amazing. Just a bit more in price but looks great.
Have heard about the Loxji d40 pro, interesting.BUT I haven't heard it yet, maybe one day I will get opportunity to review.
Can I somehow control the crossover using the filters?
Not that I am aware of.
Can the SMSL AO300 drive floor standing speakers ?
I'm not sure, I only used with bookshelf speakers. I don't have any floorstanding speakers.
Thanks for the review. I just ordered a pair online in part due to your review. One thing I am wondering however is whether you also experience an audible pop when switching sources or eq presets. Has this happened to you or is the AO300 overall very quiet?
Furthermore, will you be reviewing the Loxjie A40 in the future? I only learnt about its existence after I had placed my order for the AO300, but given the fact that the A40 has both Phono and a lower price it seems like a good competitor to the AO300.
I haven't heard any pops or clicks with the AO300.
Loxjie A40 looks interesting, thanks for the suggestion.
A little confusing at the end of the video the ao300 is not a power amp it's integrated with the amps needing pre amps, they are power amps?
It's an Integrated speaker amp. Sorry for the confusion.
How does this compare to the AO300EX? Wondering if the different chipset is worth the extra cost?
Sorry haven't heard the AO300ex.
@@TheHonestAudiophile will this power kef q150 fine?
@k3v11n I have no experience with the Q150, sorry.
@k3v11n There's no AO300EX. You probably mean the DO300EX, which is a DAC, a headphone amp and a preamp, not an integrated amplifier like this one. So you cant compare the two, as they're different devices doing different things.
Отличный обзор !
Thanks
i have k7 but i like ao300 🤔
Glad you enjoy the AO300
Thanks for the review! Very nice and detailed! Subbed!! Got 2 questions if you get a chance.
Do you think something like this would be better than a traditional receiver like the Yamaha a-s301?
How would you rate the internal DAC? Would you say it’s worth adding on something like an smsl su-1?
Keep in mind I don't use a traditional receiver at all, I have no experience with them.
If you're using the traditional receiver to play music only in 2.0 setup the A0300 could be an upgrade. But if you're using for gaming, movie consumption and TV in a surround sound 2.1 or larger setup it won't compare.
As for the internal DAC, sound impressions were based on the internal DAC and the outputs.
I can't compare to any receivers as I haven't used them. I also don't recall the SU-1. Sorry.
Thanks for the questions. Sorry I wasn't much help; this is an area I'm very limited knowledge and experience.
Thanks for watching and subscribing, much appreciated.
Users of the Smsl A300 state it can have a bit of white noise when the volume is above 60% with no music playing, Does the AO300 have the same or any noise ?
You mention it does 330 Watts in BTL mode, but i dont see anything about BTL mode on this unit. Have you confused it with the A300 which def has BTL mode ?
I didn't use it in BTL mode.
I don't/didn't raise to Max volume with/without music playing. Only time I heard a little noise was with super sensitive IEM from hp output.
A300 has a little hiss also at volume zero - i'm returning it because it also has a light mid-tone noise... i guess my unit is defective.
Have heard some complaints that the sound quality isn't as good over the AUX input, I would be running both digital and analog sources so I was curious if you used the line in at all and what your thoughts were?
I use USB about 90% of the time I don't notice a difference with the aux input but again I don't use it often.
Thank you for video. I bought a second hand, SMSL A300 which has the same power section and with zero volume, a i can hear a little medium frequency tone (very low) , not just hiss - What about the AO300? can you please try, hearing near the tweeter ? Thank you :)
I don't leave my gear on after listening. I always shut gear off and I always turn volume all the way down when not in used. I don't hear any noticeable hisses or other noises. But volume is only raised when music is playing.
@@TheHonestAudiophile I can hear it also when volume is at zero - however, i turn off everything when not in use, but when i simply change "track" i can hear it.. very lighly, but i hear it - Thank you
Does anyone else say It's got to sound good when Dave does?
Well, you know....
Now with integrated streaming capabilities, it would be perfect (for me).
May I suggest you use your old hand phone. All ready set up and good to go.
It would be nice showing what is in the display and the options, for example while showing the filters with music.
Cords aren't always long enough and the displays doesn't show up well on camera. Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing.
👍
This is not power amplifier, it's integrated amplifier because it has dac, optical, coaxial and rca inputs and volume control.
Yes, its an integrated amp. But not directly because of what you mentioned. Its because there's a preamp and a power amp stage in it. Yes, you wont find these inputs in a power amp (with the exception of volume control, as all PA power amps for example, have volume controls for each channel), but thats not what makes an amp being integrated.
Bridged? You sure? How? Thnx. I don’t think so…
I didn't have two AO300 to test btl mode but specs says it can. From what I understand it is the same amp as the A300 and that has btl mode. Maybe I am mistaken but from what I was informed on spec sheet there is btl mode. But I can't confirm that it works as I don't have two AO300 to test.
Thanks for watching and commenting.
Dude. Your videos recently have this noise in them, and I don't mean audio. I mean digital noise in the image.
Changed to a Google Pixel 8 Pro and I don't do any edits to the images or audio quality. Basically it is what it is.
Thanks for the feedback.
@@TheHonestAudiophile is your room dark?
I think maybe having more light might help. Also check if the phone camera goes to night mode while you're recording.
I have plenty of lights, 4 of them to be exact.
I'll look into different options and settings.
@@TheHonestAudiophile alrighty. also check the recording settings on your phone. you might have to try different codecs + maxing out the bitrate etc.
Dude, are you reviewing this unit or selling it for SMSL....
So because I enjoy a product and honestly describe my opinion and recommend it for others to enjoy, that is being a salesman?
No funds, no commission, no SMSL or Aoshida input was provided for this review. All thoughts and opinions are my own. No external impressions or opinions were given to me to include in this video.
The purchase link provided isn't affiliated.
Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing.
@johngault-9957 Dude, are you kidding? You want an example of a reviewer who is a salesman, check out Passion for Sound. You are barking up the wrong tree if you think Dave is a salesman.
@@TheHonestAudiophile Keep doing what you are doing! People need to watch more of your content and actually understand where you are coming from. Us who know and follow your channel all know you are honest and not even remotely close to being a salesman/shill.
This is entry level hifi, not audiophile stuff.
Audiophile sound can be found in any price range. But yes, this is an "entry level" device that offers a bit of the audiophile experience. Thanks for watching and commenting.
As an audiophile I'm very content with my setup, the Mytek Liberty DAC ii and Mytek HPA. Headphones and IEM as well, Audeze LCD-5, CTM Da Vinci X and a few others. If I wasn't a reviewer, those items would still be my end game.
I don't swap around gear chasing after the unicorns, I understand and know what I seek and I have found it.
The term audiophile and what it means has been misconstrued for a long time. Here's a link to a mini-series I did on the subject that will help explain it better.
ruclips.net/p/PLFpndZVz25TKS6PyW4QJcqbT6WDiJ08c3&si=qZ9f6dlH9X3u59-O
Here's a link to a playlist about getting to know me, an audiophile, better that has a lot of useful information that can be applied to other audio channels as well.
ruclips.net/p/PLFpndZVz25TJfPKx-OLMpovQP-QeNatDh&si=4bd557plR2a1dV1f
Please take the time to watch these videos and I hope you find them helpful and educational.
Here's a link to my website where you can find additional information:
www.thehonestaudiophile.com/
Thanks for watching, commenting and subscribing.
Товар нужно показывать, а не свою рожу!!!
The product is shown a lot throughout the video. The product is a bit heavy and after 20 consecutive takes, the arms tend to get a a bit sore holding up the product.
Thanks for watching and commenting.