It's using the German MA12070 Infineon Class D chip like the Loxjie A30 and SMSL AO200. Cool running and great sound. Will sound great with high efficiency speakers. I prefer this chip to the TI chips even though they have more power.
Randy you are driving me insane. So I have been building a budget/“not so budget stereo system”. I have the SMSL SU-8s Dac and the JBL Studio 530. I have an Aiyima A07 that I was going to upgrade the op amps (per your video) Then I saw you recent video of the Fosi Audi V3 amp. Now I see this. I can’t wait until the comparison video. I am also getting the Aiyima T8, I love tubes and needed an EQ. Bravo again !!! Thank you again
Concerning your sub comment - with my first sub, my wife really enjoyed the bass for dancing around the living room. When she asked if a second sub would really improve the bass in our space, my answer was "absolutely honey". My easiest audiophile upgrade ever!
@@markflitz1772 In all seriousness , my advice is to dance with your partner. For me music is about listening and for my wife it's more about movement. I stink at dancing, while she danced ballet. I took a few dance lessons with, and for her a number of years ago. I learned to eight count for doing the box step and a little cha cha. Just about anyone else can still dance better than me, but my wife wants to dance with me and so gives me full credit for trying. I made a Spotify dance playlist and we just cut the rug in the living room mostly (versus "going out" to dance). I have to give her credit for "listening" though, since she's accompanied me to Pay Metheny concerts for the last 35 years and is astounded as I am by his musical ability. I tell anyone needing help with spousal approval for getting hifi gear - dance, dance, dance your way to upgrades!
Hey Randy! Long time watcher...First time commenter. You're basically like a brother from a different mother to me, even down to age (actually twin!) right down to leaving the "tramp stamp" on the side of your Invicta. If you know, you know. Anyway, I have my 25 year old Rotel amp based system as my daily but am increasingly curious about the cheap audio stuff. So, I've ordered: - WIIM Mini - SMSL M300SE DAC - RSL IA255.1 to run unto my recently enough purchased B&W 607 S2's, and can't wait to hook it all up. It was between RSL and the Fosi V3 but the 2.1 won out in the end. I've actually already been running the SMSL DAC and it's a delightful little thing, even if it is slightly bigger than a 'key'. Sooo...when are we all being treated to the RSL vs. Chi-Fi comparison video, as I'm looking forward to it bigtime. Thanks for all your hard work. Arjan, from Ireland
Bought this RSL amp on your recommendation and have been using it for a week. Sounds great with my 2.1 stereo setup! Plenty loud for my living room, and the high pass filter works super with my cheap old bookshelf speakers and hand-me-down powered sub. And the small size means I freed up a bunch of shelf space where my dying college dorm all-in-one yamaha receiver used to sit. Buying from RSL was also a piece of cake. Thanks!
The high pass filter is a major plus. If you have a sub, trying to reproduce low frequencies also on your main speakers wastes a huge amount of power that could alternatively go towards reproducing mid frequencies with better accuracy at higher volumes. Great move, RSL! Although my vote would be for a selectable crossover frequency (perhaps a 2-position or 3-position switch or potentiometer).
RSL not only has extremely great value products, their customer service is truly second to none. Usually it's the owner of the company that helps you, I was having trouble with my 10SII and he did the best/easiest troubleshooting ever and had a new sub amp on the way before the end of the phone call. You can literally ask them about anything related to your setup and they'll go so far above and beyond to help you get it dialed in. It's rare to get that level of customer service in 2024.
UPS screwed my order over. Stolen, crash, fire??? I don’t know, but it looks like RSL is having to ship another one. A label was created (again). I’m getting a new delivery date. Sucks.
I received mine. I think for $110 it’s a heckuva deal. I like the sound. Pretty balanced, and clear from top to bottom. The midrange (voices) seem to be just slightly forward which I like. I had it hooked up to my Martin Logan 35XT speakers (I haven’t tried it with a subwoofer yet). I thought maybe they would be a little harsh with the little class D amp, but they were very smooth. I wish it cost a little more, and came with a headphone amp. I can live without a remote.
A have RSL speakers throughout my place, we were able to pre-wire every room at the build of the house. I can honestly say that the place rocks!!! The system we put in the movie room sounds better than the theaters. Great company, great design and solid product!
The high pass filter is the deal. Removing bass from smaller speakers really improves clarity of small mid bass drivers and reduces the load on this small amp to produce bass as that is handled by the sub amp.
Finally purchased one of these. As much as I love the RSL 10s MKII, I had to give the ia255.1 a try. It arrived a couple days ago, and made a little time this morning to hook it up. So far it sounds incredible. I've been a diehard Aiyima A07 fan and have been playing with an A07 pro for a while now. Both Aiyima's have used a 48V linear power supply and I have been very happy with the setup, but this RSL just seems to have something I have been missing and so far, I love it. Thanks for the review on this one Randy. My soul is filled with happiness!
I have been scouring the comments section to find opinions from owners of this amp. Thanks for commenting on how happy you are with the sound! I just ordered one.
2 year warranty on a $100 electronic audio device, with US representation..that's pretty good. HPF with also a preout is awesome, more companies should pay attention to this. I have no use for this but once upon a time I would have loved a little gizmo like this. Nice features on this one.
The most compelling feature is honestly that 90 hz filter. Almost no tiny amps and almost no powered speakers have proper filters and try to produce bass when there's no need as you have a sub. Off hand, I can think of Vanatoo that does have automatic filters on theirs, but of the small amps very little springs to mind. Perhaps there are some. But for a 2.1 system, this thing basically just went to the top of the line, the low price is not a bad thing either. Maybe do another variant of it, add a few tenners to the price, and have a remote.
I agree re the high pass filter. Tone controls are good to see too. If the op amps are socketed, that would be a huge plus in my book. (Does anybody know?) I could care less about USB connectivity and even less about Bluetooth.
100% agree with your comment! I've been experimenting with several "chi-fi" mini-amps and subs using a Rolls SX45 crossover to send the low frequencies to the sub. 'Seemed to me if a powered sub (usually employed by many anyhow), would allow the satellite speaker to do a better job of producing the mids and highs. I'd love to see more manufacturers doing this, as simple high-pass filters appear fairly simple to integrate in modern amps...
Can't wait to see what your comparison video turns out as. I want to support a USA brand. HPF is awesome. Is that sub out variable with the volume? Cuz the line out on the A07 isn't....just sayin'.
I really wish more companies building these amps took into consideration the main bedroom crowd or modest living room crowd wanting a remote and eARC and a high pass cross over. Obviously budget plays a role, but a larger customer base would be interested. Im sure theres many like me waiting for the perfect bedroom amp or modest living room amp.
TV->2.1 amp... TV remote = Volume adjust. no need for eARC. Simply set the volume knob somewhere 50%+ then use TV remote to adjust. HDMI eARC on a 2.1 amp seems to be an excessive added cost for such a simple solution.
@@everydayaudiophile thanks for the heads up, just not all tvs have variable audio output, 4 out of my 4 tvs have not had that so. Maybe more older tvs and lucky newer ones? Plus it would just be nice to have more options that have that in today's time instead just one that's not a very good option
@@mcjonner agreed, a remote would be an awesome feature, but i think it would cost more to have something that does not benefit audio performance, which seems to be the opposite of what RSL is trying to do. They put the cost in the performance and function more so than fancy add ons and features to make it cost more. Also, what makes this a not good option?
Thanks! Sorry would like to ask. From Singapore (South East Asia). What is a good class D near field amp for using with desktop music and gaming? I use the magnaplanar mini maggies (50+wpc and 200w max required) and RSL speedwoofer 10Mk2 and got a budget of about USD$1000 max to spend. I really only need a L/R out and 1 sub out amp with a volume pot with high and low filter and nothing else. Other than great sound. My PC is my life and is on for hours. So class A and AB are err too high consumption of power constantly.
@@cheapaudioman Thanks Sir. Sorry to ask. Maybe you can do a video on WTFreak is the actually difference between a cheap amp and a expensive amp. As far as I can tell is the inputs and outputs the amp has and the last 5% of the highest and lowest frequencies.... If that is the case.... Why buy those really high end amps.
A lot of people would like to see a remote for these little amps. The problem with that is knobs with a mechanical min and max would require a motor drive turn to turn them up or down.
I'm looking at my desk and this is what Randy has done to my setup and bank account in the last 5 or 6 months since I subscribed: Douk Audio St-01, Fluance Signature bookshelf 5 1/4's, iso acoustic speaker stands, Douk Audio Little Bear, Fosi Audio Tube Phono pre-amp, Fluance RT-85 Turntable with Ortofon Blue cartridge, and now my Emotiva BasX A2 amp now has a tracking number with Fed-Ex. My wife has issues with Randy, but I've tried to tell her that I'm responsible... sort of. It's his fault!!! 🤣 dude - i love your channel and your reviews.
Thanks to this video, I procured the iA255.1, and am quite pleased. I’ve only put the volume to 9 o’clock and my Klipsch Reference RB-81 II speakers wail. Great review, greater integrated amp.
I really like all this action in the Class D segment! A bit of pressure on the chi-fi manufacturers is not a bad thing, we will probably see more exciting features in upcoming models.
Great review! Amazing to see an American company stepping up to the plate. Unfortunately, I already bought the Fosi BT-20A Pro. But will keep these guys in mind as recommendations to others. Now, if only an American company would step up to automated surface mount technology manufacturing and offer a R2R DAC to take on Denafrips and Gustard. BTW, was your audio a little lower in volume on this video than most of your others? Not bad, but I definitely had to crank it up a touch more. The commercials were a lot louder, like watching TV in the early 2000s...LOL.
Just hooked up my iA255.1 today, but used it as a replacement to my big class A amp in a reference system. I get volume control with the preamp. I love it. Gives my ELAC BS403 slam. Next step, strip out everything else.
mine came in, lighter than expected but sound quality for what it is, is very good( a cheap amp) great imaging and stereo separation, after a few hours it started to sound even better, louder, not a lot of volume but loud enough. impressed, keeper, more testing...
That amp with the low cost speakers on your list and it's "Bob's your uncle" for gifting a bonafide "stereo system" to those needing a musical start in life (and doesn't break the bank for the giver). Thanks for putting it on our radar Randy!
I ordered from RSL on monday and got the amp delivered to germany on friday with FedEx. Great device, exaxt what i was looking for. I have a set of Canton Fonissimo and a Canton AS20 sub and I sounds great. Used speakers and sub are selling under 100€.
I’m a new hi-fi enthusiast. I’m thinking about getting: - this RSL IA 255.1 - Wiim Pro AirPlay 2 - Sony SSCS5 Questions: - Good setup for under $500? - Any compatibility issues? - What else do I need, such as plugs, cords, power sources? Thanks!
Is the sub volume controlled accordingly with the speaker volume? $15 Return Policy. Hi Pass Filter adds a nice option lacking on other Brands. The Chi-Fi companies will jump on this new addition and you will find it incorporated into their units as well.
Fosi releases the V3 pro with a high pass filter and tone controls in...3...2...1 As per usual, great video, Randy. This is now a contender for my first system. Curious about that chip set though?
One thing you forgot to mention was the lack of remote control support, so it wouldn’t fit in as a replacement for my bedroom amp, the S.M.S.L. DA-9, but! Always good to hear a decent amp for less than half the price exists. Might make a killer desktop PC sound system.
Sounds great paired with my Q Acoustics 3020 and 8" Monolith subwoofer (high pass filter engaged) in my 12'x15' bedroom. The 3020 is an efficient speaker, and I dont like to listen abover 80/85db (peak), so there's a ton of headroom.
Is the 3mm sub/pre-out controlled by the volume knob? What about the bass tone adjustment knob? These are important questions that should be answered in all videos.
I'm looking at the syn + amp to put in a vacation rental. I need it to be bulletproof though, I can't troubleshoot or even access it once set up. Literally I want to run wires into a lockbox and all they have access to is TV remote and a roku.
Damm, just when I spec'd out a 2.1 desktop system around a Aiyima T9 or A08 + T8 or D03... now I have to consider this lol... MUST wait for comparison shootout video
Since low bass takes so much amplifier power for cone excursion (for no reason on a small speaker that can't reproduce those frequencies), the 90-hertz filter also means the amp has more headroom.
Hi, I have a pair of Sony SS-CS5 bookshelf and only intend to use it for my amateur radio receiver (200-4KHz) and on a hi quality tube communications receiver (50-16 KHz) It should work well for my applications...I hope...just ordered 1. I was going to build a tube amp but don't have the time. Thanks for the info!
So I have a set of Monolith B6 bookshelf speakers that I can't use in my current livingroom as surrounds due to space. I had them on my desktop full range with my Fosi DA2120C which sounded great. Lots of bass. But I also have a Speedwoofer 10 there, and a 12s for the home theater. Well these bookshelves are destined to be one of two places: The garage, or the Bedroom. I have Elacs for my desktop. Do you think this amp would run these Monolith bass cannons well enough full range? Whatever amp I get needs to have enough oomph. The B6 are 4 ohms. Thoughts?
Looks like a very well designed and executed little amp! Do the tone controls have center detents? And are the op-amps socketed? It has a true preamp/sub out - and "honest" power ratings! Edit: it uses the MA12070 IC by Infineon for the output device; per their specs.
The tone controls do have detents, but they're a little off-center on mine. Its not really noticable unless you're really looking at it though, and I don't think it affects the sound at all when they are set at the detent.
@@Nick_4i Thanks - this is a big help, for using the amp. The off center *visual* is probably only related to the knob and the shaft splines - it's just the way they line up. Electrically/tonally, the detent is probably the neutral point.
A big thank you to your channel. I made a comment on your Fosi V3 review and then they sent me one, only took about a week to reach the UK and has a UK plug. Looks to be very well made. Going to set it up today with my Wharfdale Diamonds and then my much smaller Gale 3010s. Going to feed it with my Bludento BLT2 with Bluetooth and iPhone 11 Apple Music. I understand the Wiim mini or pro would be better with Airplay but by how much?
Re your Bluetooth question, basically if you notice a difference in quality between Bluetooth and for example directly from pc to DAC, that is the difference you will notice with the WiiM pro instead of Bluetooth. I'm not familiar with airplay and bought the wiim pro instead of the mini since I use chromecast as I'm on android. The wiim Mini doesn't have chromecast so I went for the pro, otherwise the differences are just physical buttons and input / output options I believe. The app on it is the same.
I'd buy you a cup of coffee Randy, but you keep spending my money. Ha! Very cool product. I'll have to keep an eye on RSL. I keep hoping one of these companies will put out a little 2 channel with HDMI ARC, pre out and high pass filter/sub out would be icing on top of the cake.
Randy , great and fun and informative review as always, I’m late to this party but was glad to see you review this little amp, I’d hear quite a bit of buzz about it ! Now I’m tempted and most likely will pick this one up for myself other than just recommending to others as I usually do. Thanks man enjoyed the video as always keep keeping on sir!!!💪🏽👍🏽👍🏽🔥🔥
Some small China amps I studied the sockets & switches of & saw all the display options shown where applicable, I noticed didn't have an hint of a X/over control despite them having a sub-out phono socket. I never could understand why, your smallish 2-ways shouldn't be trying to stress your cones into big excursion s for deep bass below 80'ish or more Hertz & eff up the higher frequencies when there's a sub helping them, it's maddness!
If that amp had a headphone output I would have sold my soul for it. I switch inputs, outputs and fiddle with tone controls a lot and I hate the tedium of the remote on my Loxjie. Oh welp, it still has the best features.
Awesome company!! I had a problem with my amp after 4 months they mailed me a brand new one with a return label so I could send the old one back !!!!!! Easy peasy. Try that with a Chinese brand.
@@cheapaudioman Plenty of Chi-Fi amps have built in DACs. 16bit/48khz is a pretty lowly spec, and UsbC makes it only useful for PC and perhaps wired into your phone if that’s even compatible. The switchable high pass filter is a fine feature that I like, but it doesn’t indicate that the amplifier topology itself is different than any SMSL using the Infineon chipset. That’s an in-line filter on the back end that probably adds measurable distortion to the signal. Once again, these features can be nice to the right buyer, but a revolutionary product they are not. I can buy some RCA in-line high pass filters for 35$, slap them on any Aiyima or Fosi amp under 100$, and voila, I’ve accomplished the same thing and probably better sonically because I could get a 2nd order filter that drops off cleaner and it’s a preamp function on a low level signal.
Really nice to see that high pass filter given I'm always second guessing my cross over point with my sub. I wonder if it has the same cheap approach to Bluetooth like the Fosi stuff in that there's no secure pairing so the neighbours can Rick Roll you at any point. On that note I wish there was latency data for BT connections as not all connections are created equally despite being the same specification.
the USB input acts as a DAC, 16 bit/48khz, so you can absolutely connect directly to it. I connect my phone to mine using a lightning to USB-C cable, it doesnt charge my phone, but it plays audio!
Great....But lacks a basic Remote (even if it's just on/off and volume). It would make a great soundbar killer. I have 2 pairs of idle Bookshelf speakers (Sony and Micca) that would be a perfect match for this bad boy.
I have a Tic outdoor amp for my JBL Control 29 speakers and it does a decent job because the jbl's are 90+db efficient. But it's only 50 watts (25x2). I think manufacturers are missing the boat on ip4 or 6 outdoor amps. RSL, would it really make a difference if it was twice the size with twice the power? I'd pay $300 if they made one like that for outdoors. Just a thought RSL ✊🏼
How is this a 5.1? Doesn't it need speaker ports for all 5 channels? From what i see i only see a left and right post in the back. How does a center channel work??
FYI, they charge $13.55 shipping to APO/FPO. Usually a dealbreaker for me, but I bought one anyway. I bought one of the other amps you recommended a while back (free shipping from China, lol) and am very happy with it. But I really hate companies charging shipping to APO/FPO. Maybe you can address that?
Correct me if I'm wrong..but, you didn't try it with a subwoofer - the 90Hz Hi-Pass filter being its killer feature - while you have dozens of speakers? 😮
It's using the German MA12070 Infineon Class D chip like the Loxjie A30 and SMSL AO200. Cool running and great sound. Will sound great with high efficiency speakers. I prefer this chip to the TI chips even though they have more power.
Randy you are driving me insane. So I have been building a budget/“not so budget stereo system”. I have the SMSL SU-8s Dac and the JBL Studio 530. I have an Aiyima A07 that I was going to upgrade the op amps (per your video) Then I saw you recent video of the Fosi Audi V3 amp. Now I see this. I can’t wait until the comparison video. I am also getting the Aiyima T8, I love tubes and needed an EQ. Bravo again !!! Thank you again
coming soon. they're all very good though
Concerning your sub comment - with my first sub, my wife really enjoyed the bass for dancing around the living room. When she asked if a second sub would really improve the bass in our space, my answer was "absolutely honey". My easiest audiophile upgrade ever!
Does your wife have any single sisters? I can’t get my wife to go for one sub. Lucky man.
@@markflitz1772 In all seriousness , my advice is to dance with your partner. For me music is about listening and for my wife it's more about movement. I stink at dancing, while she danced ballet. I took a few dance lessons with, and for her a number of years ago. I learned to eight count for doing the box step and a little cha cha. Just about anyone else can still dance better than me, but my wife wants to dance with me and so gives me full credit for trying. I made a Spotify dance playlist and we just cut the rug in the living room mostly (versus "going out" to dance). I have to give her credit for "listening" though, since she's accompanied me to Pay Metheny concerts for the last 35 years and is astounded as I am by his musical ability. I tell anyone needing help with spousal approval for getting hifi gear - dance, dance, dance your way to upgrades!
@@markflitz1772 And yes, I count myself as an extremely lucky man!
Hey Randy! Long time watcher...First time commenter. You're basically like a brother from a different mother to me, even down to age (actually twin!) right down to leaving the "tramp stamp" on the side of your Invicta. If you know, you know. Anyway, I have my 25 year old Rotel amp based system as my daily but am increasingly curious about the cheap audio stuff. So, I've ordered:
- WIIM Mini
- SMSL M300SE DAC
- RSL IA255.1
to run unto my recently enough purchased B&W 607 S2's, and can't wait to hook it all up. It was between RSL and the Fosi V3 but the 2.1 won out in the end. I've actually already been running the SMSL DAC and it's a delightful little thing, even if it is slightly bigger than a 'key'. Sooo...when are we all being treated to the RSL vs. Chi-Fi comparison video, as I'm looking forward to it bigtime. Thanks for all your hard work. Arjan, from Ireland
thank you. your system is going to sound great!!!
RSL website says the amp comes with a 12" 3.5mm to RCA adapter!
Great video as usual.
I couldn't find this info anywhere on the website, but I did finally find it in the user manual PDF. Saved me from sending $4 to Jeff Bezos. :)
Bought this RSL amp on your recommendation and have been using it for a week. Sounds great with my 2.1 stereo setup! Plenty loud for my living room, and the high pass filter works super with my cheap old bookshelf speakers and hand-me-down powered sub. And the small size means I freed up a bunch of shelf space where my dying college dorm all-in-one yamaha receiver used to sit. Buying from RSL was also a piece of cake. Thanks!
The high pass filter is a major plus. If you have a sub, trying to reproduce low frequencies also on your main speakers wastes a huge amount of power that could alternatively go towards reproducing mid frequencies with better accuracy at higher volumes. Great move, RSL! Although my vote would be for a selectable crossover frequency (perhaps a 2-position or 3-position switch or potentiometer).
Yes 80/90/100hz or even a variable potentiometer 40-120hz would be perfect
there is no way back now. But early videos was the best thank you.
RSL not only has extremely great value products, their customer service is truly second to none. Usually it's the owner of the company that helps you, I was having trouble with my 10SII and he did the best/easiest troubleshooting ever and had a new sub amp on the way before the end of the phone call. You can literally ask them about anything related to your setup and they'll go so far above and beyond to help you get it dialed in. It's rare to get that level of customer service in 2024.
Thank you. Some great advice in the many videos that helped me choose my first amp/speakers.
Great to hear!
I ordered one today. $110 was the complete price. They didn’t charge shipping, or taxes. If it’s a decent amp it’s a heck of a deal.
UPS screwed my order over. Stolen, crash, fire??? I don’t know, but it looks like RSL is having to ship another one. A label was created (again). I’m getting a new delivery date. Sucks.
I received mine. I think for $110 it’s a heckuva deal. I like the sound. Pretty balanced, and clear from top to bottom. The midrange (voices) seem to be just slightly forward which I like. I had it hooked up to my Martin Logan 35XT speakers (I haven’t tried it with a subwoofer yet). I thought maybe they would be a little harsh with the little class D amp, but they were very smooth. I wish it cost a little more, and came with a headphone amp. I can live without a remote.
I would gladly pay $25-$30 more if it came with a volume only remote control
yes!
I'm thinking an app to control the amp for those that want to run something that isn't a BT input but wants to run controls via their phone.
No remote? WTF.. 🤦
A have RSL speakers throughout my place, we were able to pre-wire every room at the build of the house. I can honestly say that the place rocks!!! The system we put in the movie room sounds better than the theaters. Great company, great design and solid product!
The high pass filter is the deal. Removing bass from smaller speakers really improves clarity of small mid bass drivers and reduces the load on this small amp to produce bass as that is handled by the sub amp.
Finally purchased one of these. As much as I love the RSL 10s MKII, I had to give the ia255.1 a try. It arrived a couple days ago, and made a little time this morning to hook it up. So far it sounds incredible. I've been a diehard Aiyima A07 fan and have been playing with an A07 pro for a while now. Both Aiyima's have used a 48V linear power supply and I have been very happy with the setup, but this RSL just seems to have something I have been missing and so far, I love it. Thanks for the review on this one Randy. My soul is filled with happiness!
I have been scouring the comments section to find opinions from owners of this amp. Thanks for commenting on how happy you are with the sound! I just ordered one.
2 year warranty on a $100 electronic audio device, with US representation..that's pretty good. HPF with also a preout is awesome, more companies should pay attention to this. I have no use for this but once upon a time I would have loved a little gizmo like this. Nice features on this one.
I have two of the 12S set up with my system and they rock! Absolutely love RSL!!!!! Great video Randy!
The most compelling feature is honestly that 90 hz filter. Almost no tiny amps and almost no powered speakers have proper filters and try to produce bass when there's no need as you have a sub. Off hand, I can think of Vanatoo that does have automatic filters on theirs, but of the small amps very little springs to mind. Perhaps there are some. But for a 2.1 system, this thing basically just went to the top of the line, the low price is not a bad thing either. Maybe do another variant of it, add a few tenners to the price, and have a remote.
Line amp and fmods 70 hz 3db loss ,awesome results..
I agree re the high pass filter. Tone controls are good to see too. If the op amps are socketed, that would be a huge plus in my book. (Does anybody know?) I could care less about USB connectivity and even less about Bluetooth.
100% agree with your comment! I've been experimenting with several "chi-fi" mini-amps and subs using a Rolls SX45 crossover to send the low frequencies to the sub. 'Seemed to me if a powered sub (usually employed by many anyhow), would allow the satellite speaker to do a better job of producing the mids and highs. I'd love to see more manufacturers doing this, as simple high-pass filters appear fairly simple to integrate in modern amps...
Can't wait to see what your comparison video turns out as. I want to support a USA brand. HPF is awesome. Is that sub out variable with the volume? Cuz the line out on the A07 isn't....just sayin'.
This is real nice, I just used it to replace an old Teac class D amp and it is a huge step up. Thanks for mentioning it.
Had some RSL monitors back in the late 80's. Nice to see them back on the scene.
I really wish more companies building these amps took into consideration the main bedroom crowd or modest living room crowd wanting a remote and eARC and a high pass cross over. Obviously budget plays a role, but a larger customer base would be interested.
Im sure theres many like me waiting for the perfect bedroom amp or modest living room amp.
TV->2.1 amp... TV remote = Volume adjust. no need for eARC. Simply set the volume knob somewhere 50%+ then use TV remote to adjust. HDMI eARC on a 2.1 amp seems to be an excessive added cost for such a simple solution.
@@everydayaudiophile thanks for the heads up, just not all tvs have variable audio output, 4 out of my 4 tvs have not had that so. Maybe more older tvs and lucky newer ones? Plus it would just be nice to have more options that have that in today's time instead just one that's not a very good option
@@mcjonner agreed, a remote would be an awesome feature, but i think it would cost more to have something that does not benefit audio performance, which seems to be the opposite of what RSL is trying to do. They put the cost in the performance and function more so than fancy add ons and features to make it cost more. Also, what makes this a not good option?
Thanks! Sorry would like to ask. From Singapore (South East Asia). What is a good class D near field amp for using with desktop music and gaming?
I use the magnaplanar mini maggies (50+wpc and 200w max required) and RSL speedwoofer 10Mk2 and got a budget of about USD$1000 max to spend. I really only need a L/R out and 1 sub out amp with a volume pot with high and low filter and nothing else. Other than great sound.
My PC is my life and is on for hours. So class A and AB are err too high consumption of power constantly.
the smsl al200 is excellent or a pair of a300's from smsl
@@cheapaudioman Thanks Sir. Sorry to ask. Maybe you can do a video on WTFreak is the actually difference between a cheap amp and a expensive amp. As far as I can tell is the inputs and outputs the amp has and the last 5% of the highest and lowest frequencies....
If that is the case.... Why buy those really high end amps.
A lot of people would like to see a remote for these little amps. The problem with that is knobs with a mechanical min and max would require a motor drive turn to turn them up or down.
I'm looking at my desk and this is what Randy has done to my setup and bank account in the last 5 or 6 months since I subscribed: Douk Audio St-01, Fluance Signature bookshelf 5 1/4's, iso acoustic speaker stands, Douk Audio Little Bear, Fosi Audio Tube Phono pre-amp, Fluance RT-85 Turntable with Ortofon Blue cartridge, and now my Emotiva BasX A2 amp now has a tracking number with Fed-Ex. My wife has issues with Randy, but I've tried to tell her that I'm responsible... sort of. It's his fault!!! 🤣 dude - i love your channel and your reviews.
Thanks to this video, I procured the iA255.1, and am quite pleased. I’ve only put the volume to 9 o’clock and my Klipsch Reference RB-81 II speakers wail. Great review, greater integrated amp.
Thanks for commenting that you are pleased with this amp. It helped me to decide to buy one.
My A07’s have averaged a year and change in lifespan. 2 year warranty on a $110 amp with US based customer service? HECK yes.
I really like all this action in the Class D segment! A bit of pressure on the chi-fi manufacturers is not a bad thing, we will probably see more exciting features in upcoming models.
Completely agree. Seems we should eventually get to truly full-function integrated amps at quite reasonable prices.
Great review! Amazing to see an American company stepping up to the plate. Unfortunately, I already bought the Fosi BT-20A Pro. But will keep these guys in mind as recommendations to others.
Now, if only an American company would step up to automated surface mount technology manufacturing and offer a R2R DAC to take on Denafrips and Gustard. BTW, was your audio a little lower in volume on this video than most of your others? Not bad, but I definitely had to crank it up a touch more. The commercials were a lot louder, like watching TV in the early 2000s...LOL.
Just hooked up my iA255.1 today, but used it as a replacement to my big class A amp in a reference system. I get volume control with the preamp. I love it. Gives my ELAC BS403 slam. Next step, strip out everything else.
I`m glad actual owners are pleased with this amp. I purchased one based on user comments like yours.
Just ordered one, thanks Randy! Perfect for my kef150’s and an 8” emotiva sub. Should be a great desk set up
mine came in, lighter than expected but sound quality for what it is, is very good( a cheap amp) great imaging and stereo separation, after a few hours it started to sound even better, louder, not a lot of volume but loud enough. impressed, keeper, more testing...
That amp with the low cost speakers on your list and it's "Bob's your uncle" for gifting a bonafide "stereo system" to those needing a musical start in life (and doesn't break the bank for the giver). Thanks for putting it on our radar Randy!
Interesting, but op amp rolling is high on my list. Need to pop that case open and see what is inside...
I ordered from RSL on monday and got the amp delivered to germany on friday with FedEx. Great device, exaxt what i was looking for. I have a set of Canton Fonissimo and a Canton AS20 sub and I sounds great. Used speakers and sub are selling under 100€.
10:49 Marantz/Denon products are made in Japan or Vietnam!
Never thought I’d hear you say “I’ve fallen in love with the 12 inch” CAM
Nice to see a U.S. company in this sector and price. Thanks, Randy. Great job!
thanks for watching, Steve!
US company thats using all China parts. Whats the point.
US company makes the profit.
@@jamesvw769 the chip is European. Better turn in your TV and Phone if you have a problem with US companies or others making stuff in china
its surely made in china
I’m a new hi-fi enthusiast. I’m thinking about getting:
- this RSL IA 255.1
- Wiim Pro AirPlay 2
- Sony SSCS5
Questions:
- Good setup for under $500?
- Any compatibility issues?
- What else do I need, such as plugs, cords, power sources?
Thanks!
What did you end up doing? I'm in the same boat as you were, would love to hear your thoughts.
Is the sub volume controlled accordingly with the speaker volume? $15 Return Policy. Hi Pass Filter adds a nice option lacking on other Brands. The Chi-Fi companies will jump on this new addition and you will find it incorporated into their units as well.
Fosi releases the V3 pro with a high pass filter and tone controls in...3...2...1 As per usual, great video, Randy. This is now a contender for my first system. Curious about that chip set though?
One thing you forgot to mention was the lack of remote control support, so it wouldn’t fit in as a replacement for my bedroom amp, the S.M.S.L. DA-9, but! Always good to hear a decent amp for less than half the price exists. Might make a killer desktop PC sound system.
Test Tangent pre amp 2 and ampster 2. Current deals for combo around 450$ +/-. Should make people looking for cheap but good hifi happy
Sounds great paired with my Q Acoustics 3020 and 8" Monolith subwoofer (high pass filter engaged) in my 12'x15' bedroom. The 3020 is an efficient speaker, and I dont like to listen abover 80/85db (peak), so there's a ton of headroom.
Looks good Randy
I like the filter but would like a good remote too
Big trouble in little china one of my favorite movies.
yep it sounds good all i need well may be a 125 rms @ 8 ohms x2 version
Is the 3mm sub/pre-out controlled by the volume knob? What about the bass tone adjustment knob? These are important questions that should be answered in all videos.
Using with the Syn, I now have separate tone control for center and rears. Kind of cool for the cheaper rears.
I'm looking at the syn + amp to put in a vacation rental. I need it to be bulletproof though, I can't troubleshoot or even access it once set up. Literally I want to run wires into a lockbox and all they have access to is TV remote and a roku.
Please compare sound quality to the Fosi Audio V3 real soon.
I just ordered one yesterday. I have had a few things from RSL and have always been very happy.
I'm wishing it had toslink, but I'll be picking one up first thing when I get home.
Nice.......Come on IFI, build one for this side of the pond!
Damm, just when I spec'd out a 2.1 desktop system around a Aiyima T9 or A08 + T8 or D03... now I have to consider this lol... MUST wait for comparison shootout video
Since low bass takes so much amplifier power for cone excursion (for no reason on a small speaker that can't reproduce those frequencies), the 90-hertz filter also means the amp has more headroom.
And a less complex impedance to drive. Loudspeaker impedance magnitude and phase goes wild near the cabinet resonance frequency.
Great review, Thanks!👍🏻 I was starting to worry you were only going to review speakers.
Just what I was looking for ! I had a huge wishlist of stuff from overseas and now looking forward to this future purchase.
Hi, I have a pair of Sony SS-CS5 bookshelf and only intend to use it for my amateur radio receiver (200-4KHz) and on a hi quality tube communications receiver (50-16 KHz) It should work well for my applications...I hope...just ordered 1. I was going to build a tube amp but don't have the time. Thanks for the info!
So I have a set of Monolith B6 bookshelf speakers that I can't use in my current livingroom as surrounds due to space. I had them on my desktop full range with my Fosi DA2120C which sounded great. Lots of bass. But I also have a Speedwoofer 10 there, and a 12s for the home theater.
Well these bookshelves are destined to be one of two places: The garage, or the Bedroom. I have Elacs for my desktop.
Do you think this amp would run these Monolith bass cannons well enough full range? Whatever amp I get needs to have enough oomph. The B6 are 4 ohms.
Thoughts?
Like the high pass option.
I wish this was around a year ago! I wonder if they’d ever do a version like this with hdmi eArc?
Looks like a very well designed and executed little amp! Do the tone controls have center detents? And are the op-amps socketed? It has a true preamp/sub out - and "honest" power ratings!
Edit: it uses the MA12070 IC by Infineon for the output device; per their specs.
The tone controls do have detents, but they're a little off-center on mine. Its not really noticable unless you're really looking at it though, and I don't think it affects the sound at all when they are set at the detent.
@@Nick_4i Thanks - this is a big help, for using the amp. The off center *visual* is probably only related to the knob and the shaft splines - it's just the way they line up. Electrically/tonally, the detent is probably the neutral point.
A big thank you to your channel. I made a comment on your Fosi V3 review and then they sent me one, only took about a week to reach the UK and has a UK plug. Looks to be very well made. Going to set it up today with my Wharfdale Diamonds and then my much smaller Gale 3010s. Going to feed it with my Bludento BLT2 with Bluetooth and iPhone 11 Apple Music. I understand the Wiim mini or pro would be better with Airplay but by how much?
I loved that exchange. I just ordered mine this week, very curious!
Re your Bluetooth question, basically if you notice a difference in quality between Bluetooth and for example directly from pc to DAC, that is the difference you will notice with the WiiM pro instead of Bluetooth. I'm not familiar with airplay and bought the wiim pro instead of the mini since I use chromecast as I'm on android. The wiim Mini doesn't have chromecast so I went for the pro, otherwise the differences are just physical buttons and input / output options I believe. The app on it is the same.
I'd buy you a cup of coffee Randy, but you keep spending my money. Ha! Very cool product. I'll have to keep an eye on RSL. I keep hoping one of these companies will put out a little 2 channel with HDMI ARC, pre out and high pass filter/sub out would be icing on top of the cake.
I want this but with an Infineon MA5332 chip for more power! (Like in the SMSL A300). Love the USB option, I wonder if the DAC is very limited though.
7:30 "I did not do a direct comparison to anything, that video is coming up" - I'd still be excited for this
Class D output using MA12070 IC by Infineon. On the RSL web sitr
Buying one right now!
28 watts on a 90 hi pass to book shelf equals 12 in sub and 150+ watts is match. Great to..
Randy , great and fun and informative review as always, I’m late to this party but was glad to see you review this little amp, I’d hear quite a bit of buzz about it ! Now I’m tempted and most likely will pick this one up for myself other than just recommending to others as I usually do. Thanks man enjoyed the video as always keep keeping on sir!!!💪🏽👍🏽👍🏽🔥🔥
I love my Chi-fi Emotiva A2 amp and TA1 and Rotel CD players! Great price great sound they come with remotes also.
This is exciting. Hopefully more US companies will get into affordable hifi.
Going to have to check that out. Thanks!
Ya this is cool, definitely a little trouble for big China, good stuff as always Randy, thanks!!!
My usual question Randy. Would it best my Aiyima A08 Pro? Regardless still holding out for something with at least a volume remote.
I just bought a V3 and I do like it, but should I return it for this based on sound alone? I still have time.
I can't find it online for sale in Canada...damn.
Just picked this up. Gracias homie.
Some small China amps I studied the sockets & switches of & saw all the display options shown where applicable, I noticed didn't have an hint of a X/over control despite them having a sub-out phono socket. I never could understand why, your smallish 2-ways shouldn't be trying to stress your cones into big excursion s for deep bass below 80'ish or more Hertz & eff up the higher frequencies when there's a sub helping them, it's maddness!
nice review, new S.M.S.L al200 is out
I would like to see what's inside.
If that amp had a headphone output I would have sold my soul for it. I switch inputs, outputs and fiddle with tone controls a lot and I hate the tedium of the remote on my Loxjie. Oh welp, it still has the best features.
Awesome company!! I had a problem with my amp after 4 months they mailed me a brand new one with a return label so I could send the old one back !!!!!! Easy peasy. Try that with a Chinese brand.
We will have to crack one open to see if it’s actually a new product or just a rebrand of the Chi-Fi amps already on the market.
send me a link to the chi fi amps that have a usb input and high pass filter
@@cheapaudioman Plenty of Chi-Fi amps have built in DACs. 16bit/48khz is a pretty lowly spec, and UsbC makes it only useful for PC and perhaps wired into your phone if that’s even compatible. The switchable high pass filter is a fine feature that I like, but it doesn’t indicate that the amplifier topology itself is different than any SMSL using the Infineon chipset. That’s an in-line filter on the back end that probably adds measurable distortion to the signal. Once again, these features can be nice to the right buyer, but a revolutionary product they are not. I can buy some RCA in-line high pass filters for 35$, slap them on any Aiyima or Fosi amp under 100$, and voila, I’ve accomplished the same thing and probably better sonically because I could get a 2nd order filter that drops off cleaner and it’s a preamp function on a low level signal.
@@MechAdv send me a link to the chifi amps that have a usb input and high pass filter. And the ones based in the US
@@cheapaudioman The SMSL A300 has USB and High Pass. Only one I know of offhand.
@@cheapaudioman I would, but RUclips won’t let me post it. It’s been deleted three times now.
This or the za3 for a near field pc 2.1 setup. Using philharmonic true mini and a svs sb-1000 pro
So this is Great, I ordered the Aiyma on Friday Already. But for $110 I may lookinto this little bity
Looking forward to amp comparisons and speaker matchings! Thanks Randy, Great Review!!! 👍👍👍
Randy and many other reviewers never got to the amp comparisons, unfortunately.
Really nice to see that high pass filter given I'm always second guessing my cross over point with my sub. I wonder if it has the same cheap approach to Bluetooth like the Fosi stuff in that there's no secure pairing so the neighbours can Rick Roll you at any point. On that note I wish there was latency data for BT connections as not all connections are created equally despite being the same specification.
Thanks for this review. Do you recall if it still broadcasts a Bluetooth signal when it's switched to other inputs?
Since that USB port is C, I wonder if you could directly connect an IPad Pro to use as a source without an audio adapter .
the USB input acts as a DAC, 16 bit/48khz, so you can absolutely connect directly to it. I connect my phone to mine using a lightning to USB-C cable, it doesnt charge my phone, but it plays audio!
Great....But lacks a basic Remote (even if it's just on/off and volume). It would make a great soundbar killer. I have 2 pairs of idle Bookshelf speakers (Sony and Micca) that would be a perfect match for this bad boy.
So...in a 2 channel system it sounds thin, is that it? Only with a sub did it get bassy, right?
As I understood it, it sounded thin because he had the 90hz high pass filter on.... The bass came back when he turned off the high pass filter.
HooRay..................
A high pass filter! They're getting it. 🔈🔉🔊
I have a Tic outdoor amp for my JBL Control 29 speakers and it does a decent job because the jbl's are 90+db efficient. But it's only 50 watts (25x2). I think manufacturers are missing the boat on ip4 or 6 outdoor amps. RSL, would it really make a difference if it was twice the size with twice the power? I'd pay $300 if they made one like that for outdoors. Just a thought RSL ✊🏼
Is there free shipping to Australia?
if this had a headphone output it would KILL the sales of many budget desktop setups !
Will the RSL 1A255-1 work with the Wiim Mini? Thanks. Love your videos!
You really should get the smsl A300. New Merus chip amp and lfe function , high pass at 50Hz. 199usd. So this Rsl is not the only one.
it's the only one based out of California
How is this a 5.1? Doesn't it need speaker ports for all 5 channels? From what i see i only see a left and right post in the back. How does a center channel work??
Looks great, but I'd need a remote for my situation. Will keep an eye on this company though.
FYI, they charge $13.55 shipping to APO/FPO. Usually a dealbreaker for me, but I bought one anyway. I bought one of the other amps you recommended a while back (free shipping from China, lol) and am very happy with it. But I really hate companies charging shipping to APO/FPO. Maybe you can address that?
Correct me if I'm wrong..but, you didn't try it with a subwoofer - the 90Hz Hi-Pass filter being its killer feature - while you have dozens of speakers? 😮