Did somebody say Iotavx? (Materializes into the chat) . First off, well done boys. I enjoyed the easy-going, relaxed vibe of this video. As for Iotavx: To this day, I feel like the SA3 integrated maintains its position as being one of the most well-rounded integerated amps in it's price class. I also prefer the sound of the SA3 by itself as opposed to the combo. While the additional amp (PA3) adds a lot more power, dynamic headroom, and general muscle to the sound - it sacrifices some of the balance and top-end smoothness that I like so much about the SA3. As always, preferences will boil down to room, speakers, and taste. And Jay - Skeptical, huh? That made me smile, and I know that you know why.. :D
I agree with Sean but the Iota has that Vintage flavor no1 talks about ! I have owned and own many vintage amps (neutrality/balanced) The Iota has a nice sparkle up top also but the Audiolab 6000a gives the Iota a run for the money ! Serously thinking about shipping the 6000a out to my Audio Guru to try out for about 6 months 😆 Comparraion video is posted 😆 between the 2 speaker pairing is huge ! The STACK is what i call a dual mono integrated !!!!!!!!
Great review as I already own the Iota VX combo. I really did consider the Rotel but the adaptability and features of the Iota won Can you tell me the exact model of those Elac speakers please. The only thing not mentioned in your review.
I happy to see you young guys with real listening rooms, enthusiastic about audio. I've enjoyed listening for nearly 50 years and still love it. Thanks from Colorado.
I have had the Iota stack for over a year and have it paired with the Triangle Borea 3 speakers and a Hsu sub and think that is a great combo. More importantly my girlfriend, now my wife, was surprised by how good this system sounds. She was blown away when listening to Pink Floyd’s Pigs. Enough said.
i own the iota Sa3/Pa3 stack. using Blue Jeans Cabling. Added HSU sub, Carnegie Audio Pedistale speakers. AudioNote 6000CDT transport & Schitt Bifrost 2 Dac. Heaven on earth for last four years! Headphones also sound great on Iota. I listen to mostly jazz in near field at less than 70db. My own rig for those interested in Iota rigs.
I bought the IOTAVX SA3 after watching Sean's review, ran it for a year or so as an integrated. I bought the KEF LS50 Meta speakers some months ago and decided I'd like more power but decided to go with Class D for my power amp and I went with the Audiophonics MPA-S250NC RCA Stereo Amplifier (it uses the Hypex Ncore NC252MP module) and the detail and dynamics (particularly in the bass) are incredible! 😁
I started off with the Elac Uni-Fi Slims and the IOTAVX sa3, a month later I order the pa3. Then I added a miniDSP 4x10 HD and another pa3. I have since ripped out the miniDSP as it did more harm than good because of how it royally screws up the phase. I have since upgraded the Elacs to Kef Q950's and the sa3 to a NAD C658. I also added 2 JL Audio Dominion D110's. The sound is bliss. Great review guys. I loved it. 🤘
@@AntoineViau-00 No I haven't tried them with the sa3. When I had the Elacs it sounded a million times better with the stack so I never bothered to test the KEF's with the sa3. I am curious now though. 🤔 They are rated 8 ohm but drop down to 3.2 ohms, so I wonder if they are power hungry like the Elacs and want that current for them to open up or not. Maybe one day if I have time, I'll borrow the sa3 back from my son and give it a try.
Now we knew right from the start that the Iota combo has more power than the Rotel. What I expected was a comparison between the two at the same listening level. I’d pick the Rotel, as I’ve had excellent experience with them over the years. Also, the Rotel (at least my current one) has a very conservative approach to tone controls, -/+ 6db.
I have the SA3 +PA3. Funnny thing when I combine the two the center image moves to the left. Have to move left speaker back a bit or use the balance control to get the singer back on center. With the SA3 alone it's is spot on.
@jesperBP are you using external tone control or are you changing tone on the Iota stack. I had the same issue. In my case the issue was most felt when i introduced an external tone control. I was new and placed a schiit loki between the SA3 and PA3. That messed up the centering. After I moved up the loki to before the input into SA3 it got solved. Since then I never rely on the SA3 tone control. I think their implementation is a little wobbly and limiting and messes up centering, especially when you pair the SA3 and PA3 as mono blocks. With schiit loki earlier in the chain, it is magical while retaining pin sharp centre image. My take, check to see if your centering is messed up even with SA3 tone controls set at zero for bass and treble. That should tell you something.
@@ukbij I don't use any external tone control. It could be RCA cable problem but doubt it. I think it's something internal going on, the sound changes a lot when combining the two and not everything for the better. I agree 200% with Zero Fidelity comment to this video. " I also prefer the sound of the SA3 by itself as opposed to the combo. While the additional amp (PA3) adds a lot more power, dynamic headroom, and general muscle to the sound - it sacrifices some of the balance and top-end smoothness that I like so much about the SA3" Also the remote control isn't the best. My volume symbols are almost gone and not from crazy extensive use. That is a first for me.
@@JOXperience i agree with your SA3 v/s combo observations. I however wanted the power. My workaround therefore was to add the external tone control and tweak around the edges. It has helped for not much extra. Schiit loki as an add on tone control is fantastic value at that price point with no loss to any of Iotavx's strengths. Gets me back that SA3 sweetness with the power of the PA3 combo.
I own the SA3 + PA3 combo for about 6 months now and am really happy with it. Run it with KEF LS50s plus a Rel T5i sub. Sounds great in my opinion. Might upgrade the amp soon to a Technics SU-G700 (unfortunately not often reviewed) but more as I prefer the modern retro looks of it. Might still hold on to the IOTAVX for using it in another room.
@@felixlaboy1453 I think I still would buy it again as the sound is actually great for the price. My system is not in a separate listening room, but in my living room so very visible. The IOTAVX looks are also not bad but when I think of my youth in the 80s and 90s I just immediately fell in love with the looks (and the VU meters) of the Technics. As said probably not even going to sell the IOTAVX.
@@bvander131313 any chance you have tried connecting dual Rel T5i on the Iotavx stack? If you did how did it perform? I have the SA3 with Triangle BR03. No subwoofer yet. Thanks.
Nice review, guys! Really glad you are liking those Uni-Fi Reference speakers! I might have to pick up a pair when they are available. I have the Uni-Fi UB52's, more or less the same speaker with a slightly smaller bass driver. It's amazing how good these sound! They have such great tone and they image and soundstage exceptionally well. When they are set up properly on good stands, away from walls, and in a treated room like you and I have they are hard to beat. I have modified mine as well, upgraded the binding posts to rhodium plated pure copper and went in and did a NoRez-like internal dampening of the enclosure. Sounds fantastic! Incredibly, they are the least expensive component in my system (my speaker cables cost more) and they do not seem out of place at all. I am driving them with a modified Schiit Vidar and a Musical Paradise MP701 MKII tube preamp (Mundorf's throughout).
Don't forget folks, you can also use the Rotel as a preamp! Get yourself a Rotel power amp! Two choices 130 watts per channel to 200 Watts per channel... low level listening, match made in heaven.
Great review. I have a wide range of music taste, for me the A11 combined with the Dali Zensor 5 AX suited my taste the best. Very detailed and great soundstage, even at low volumes.
This review and a few others led me to pick up the SA3, plan on getting the PA3 next, currently paired with a pair of Wharfedale D320s. Very entry level for sure, but is working well, although w the addition of the PA3 I’ll be looking at speaker upgrade.
It seems everybody loves the Iotavx sound and I'm sure I would like it as well. I'm just not sure I could get past the looks - VX reminds me of the cheap midi hifi systems looks of the 80's/90's. The Rotel Tribute looks the biz and I have always been a fan of the KI sound which favors the midrange. Thanks for a great A/B comparison!
WOW! Great price. I would go with the TWO IOTAVX PA3 Power Amps, as I have a Schiit Freya +……but I prefer more power and I am currently saving for a pair of Kinki Studio EX-B7 Monoblocs to go with my Dynaudio Contour 20s 😎 That was cool. You two hangin' loose and just having fun with modestly priced gear! 👍🏻😁
@@NBK6KP9 The Freya + is great because you can do multiple sound signatures with the three operation modes…and have fun with the tubes. I am driving a 40-year old Bob Carver C-500 Amp @250 wpc@8ohms with the Freya using NOS tubes. It sounds fantastic "to me". Do you have the same stac as Jay? Is the preamp in the integrated unit lacking?
For near field listening in smaller spaces the $70 Soundcore is an even better steal. I am saying this cause I tried 50w amps around $ 500-1000range and wasn’t satisfied at all. They will sound slightly bigger than the soundcore with bookshelves or will be wooly and lifeless with tower speakers. The truth is, for big hifi sound, even with bookshelves l, you need 100w+ power. We’re talking about $2500 and up for integrateds or separates to attain that big hifi sound.
I really enjoyed your new approach with your new review process!! Reminds me of a time in my life in Hifi sales talking to friends and clients having a good time enjoying the experience with new gear. Miss that. Thanks Guys!! I would choose the Rotel over the Iota VX. Pair the Elacs with the Rel subs in the back, the refinement would shine through over the grain and headroom of the Iota VX.🤙🏽
Love this review guys! I am currently running a Retro Rotel Rc- 970 BX Mark ll Stereo Controller and Rotel RB 956 ABX with Elac Debut Reference and I am in love! I have found that sound that takes me to my happy place! Please keep up the great work!
Nice review as usual. I see Emotiva has released a new Pre PT1 at $400 and a Power amp A2 at $450 I hope you get a chance to review this combo and with the Elacs ub62 Ref
I don't own or buy budget gear these days, but that's not how I started years ago. So I wonder how the Yamaha AS 801 integrated would stack up against these two amps? The Yamaha is in the same price range, has an on board dac and a very nice front end. I have not owned one but if I were in this market I would want to hear the Yamaha.
@@robertwoodward9231 - Congrats. the 801, like Yamaha, have been around for quite a while. Unlike other company's who have the latest and greatest amp every year, Yamaha does not play that bullshit game, they make a quality amp and sell it for years. Happy listening.
I'd like to see someone do a review on the new Musical Fidelity M6 500si since Pro-Ject took over and started manufacturing it at a much reduced price. I'd like to see the control of 500wpc on speakers. Good review here as usual though. Thanks
Great question. I Know some people may liken any comparison between those two very different speakers to comparing apples to oranges, but that's a comparison I'm definitely hoping for from these guys.
Great review. Love the room set up, colours of wall and the use of accoustic mats...and the Eames chair. Been weighing between Rotel A11 or Rotel RB-1552 MK II Stereo Power Amplifier and running off my Yam Rec connected to Yam NSF-700. Will check out IOTA which may match well?
I had a Rotel 12 but was disappointed in its sound. I had to turn the treble way down. It was much too bright. I had a Peachtree 300, but sold it after buying the Iota sa3 +pa 3 combo. There was little difference between the two amps. 300 watts vs 100 watts, but I didn't need the extra power of the Peachtree. Price was a big issue, the Preachtree costing twice as much as the Iota combo.
I agree. I am in that camp that is looking at the Emotiva as well. What will do it for me is probably the bass management / high and low pass filters of the Emotiva. I was so sold on Rotel, until I realized how valuable speaker equalization would be.
Wonder why this combo was chosen i like to see Itova and Emotiva go head to head. I might be bias but think separates will always sound better. But on the Rotel which is the best sounding a11, a12, or a14?
Just fixed my re-capped Arcam 8R (had to swapout the MOSFETS) - bi-amped with a 8P (also re-capped) - the A11 will be on sale soon - has some nice features but just does not sound nearly as good as the old kit.
Hi , great interesting video, I bought a11 cd11 and t11 set up with b&w dm602s3 , I had to by ifi zen v2 dad, I did look at the iota p3 , and no3 , I went with Rotel because I got a good packed deal , but thinking about this I should now bought the iota now as has built in DAC and lot more inputs. I recently bought b&w 606 s2 annerversary only because its was £349, as s3 is now out. I was if I had the money looking at Moniter audio silver 100 7g, or whalfdale evo 4.2 and others , regards mark
my very first receiver was a ten watt Rotel . It cost 99 dollars in 1977. Got it along with a BSR turntable and Sound Design speakers. The system cost 200 dollars and was basically a joke. I was a critical douche bag at 13 I guess. Got if for a birthday present. I quickly upgraded to a 35 watt Harmon Kardon receiver, Lafayette speakers, and a Technics SLD2. Rotel has always been mid-fi with a marketed team that reads Stereophile.
something I look at near every day for hours - I won't have fake vinyl wood and I won't have uglee black.... my 'modern' system > KEF Q 350 (with real Oak veneer glued on , $ 55. ) and Cambridge 100 w receiver.
I feel like I need to compliment you after my last remark. Your room looks great, your audio components are great, your commentary is great. Im a subscriber and enjoy your content.
Jay soulsik I'm not sure if I should go with klipsch rp600m or bowers 606 or 607 or dali oberon 3 for both music n movies with Yamaha RX v6a what should I use I like treble but not to much n love bass
We need to get you a gimbal for those handheld shots. I followed you over from your time at Audio Excellence CA so I’m fairly new to your channel. Your listening space seems quite small but I’m wondering if the camera angle is distorting things. What are the dimensions of your listening room?
I picked up the Iota SA3 and two PA3's for $600 on Craig's List. I'm using it with a Bellari PA555 and Polk R200's. Sounds pretty damn good. I do want to try out those new Elac's though. I have a thing for three-way bookshelf speakers.
They should have used a larger amplifier in the Tribute, 50 wpc is not enough if you have a higher impedemence speaker. I could see it running out of gas, and that is what has been reported more than a few times. I look at the Cambridge AXR100 or CXA81... They have the oomph at less than and or the same price point.
Hi !! In addition to Kef R5 and Svs 3000 micro, what stereo amplifier can you recommend? Rotel Cambridge Hegel Nad Naim?????? Thank you Have a Nice Day
Honest question for you, how much do you think the looks of a particular piece of gear sway our minds and ears to some degree in listening tests, or even our minds bias toward a company name maybe that we may be fond of or not fond of 🤔 take for instance the rotel is silver colored so could that lend one to believe what they are hearing is more Trebly, versus the black amplifier having more grunt and a bit grainy on top. I’m always curious about the psychological relationships between the sounds we hear while we’re staring at the equipment in the room that we’re listening to, How much do looks really play a role in what we here, I think it has more to do with it then we may think, but I’m not a psychologist, But it is a curious question that I find myself asking myself all the time when I’m comparing gear, How much does subconscious bias really play a role?
subconscious plays a role at every level in our lives. No exception with audio. While I don't think a black unit will make you think it sounds the opposite... It is also true for the reverse as well; for instance, I recently started reviewing Audio Note gear and I absolutely hated the way it looked but the sound captured me off guard and suddenly it looks a lot more attractive. Happened to me a few times where the undesirable looks became more desirable when the sound was good. As a neuroscientist, I tell people this; clear your mind and let yourself be human. Our minds are built to fool ourselves for a reason. What we perceive is the truth, the truth being "your truth." After all, the mind creates the world we see and hear, so how much of it do you trust... is that silver unit really silver? haha
I would test a system with acoustic instruments and a human voice. I don’t see how you can evaluate the sound of the system based on electronic music. I got my first serious audio system with a SOTA Sapphire turntable and Proac Response 3 speakers with tube amp & preamp. I prefer the sound of the Wharfdale Linton 85 Heritage to the Elac.
Hi. Thanks for the video. Those Elacs seem to be pretty good choice. What about pairing them to a Sprout 100 ? Do you think that would work, or the iota is a much better choice?? thanks
@@urbz6712 I will definitely run it as separate if your listening room isn't too big or your speakers isn't too demanding. You will get a better overall sound and imaging.
@@NBK6KP9 Hello Anthony. Can you please describe how you connected the SA3 as a preamp to the PA3? Like from what port in the SA3 to which port in the PA3. My source is a Bluesound Node which can also act as a preamp. If I understand you correctly, both your speakers are just connected to the PA3 right? Any chance you are using dual subwoofers? If you are how did you connect it? Sorry for the noob questions. Just starting in audio. Thanks
@@larrywarner9775 I have a similar setup as you but I am only using one sub. I connected the node directly to the the sa3 input since I am not using a separated dac. Then I connected the sa3(pre out) to the pa3(amp in). Btw what kind of speakers are you using.
@@NBK6KP9 I am using Triangle BR03. So from preout SA3 to amp in PA3 then your speakers are only connected to the PA3 and both the switches of the SA3 and PA3 are in "Stereo". Your subwoofer is then connected to PA3 for highpass? Am I correct? Thanks for your reply.
Xtz edge a2-300 is supposed to be a nice amp. Maybe a better pre or dac/pre would bring out the best in it. The amps are all going to have a different flavor. The Soundartist SA-200IA which Jay reviewed several months ago was too bright in the upper mids and highs but it is well under a grand (not to mention some QC issues). Schiit, Audiolab, Rotel, Rega among others make some good budget gear with some offering a higher end sound at moderate sound levels and with appropriate system matching. Personally, I use a Keces E40 which produces very low distortion with reasonable output say 34/62 watts at 8/4 ohms respectively. It has alot of grunt but isn't grainy, smooth, detailed giving up just a touch of that high frequency aire but adds a solid, tight, fast bass with good depth in the SS. Reminds me of my Hegel amp at a much lower cost and weight/size. Otherwise, I too considered the Xtz edge a2-300. I still prefer a good class AB personally, but like class D also.
I just got an A11 for £430 or $486 brand new, was supposed to be £600 from Richer Sounds but a few UK retailers were selling for £430 so I got it price matched by them, the guy in the shop couldn't belive it haha. Seems like a right steal. Replaced a NAD 3130 that I've had about 10 years (left channel/volume kept cutting in and out). Using a Cambridge Audio DAC Magic Plus and Dali Zensor 1. It sounds fantastic but I will be upgrading the speakers soon - any suggestions? Thinking of going up to around £1500 or so (that would be my end game IMO so do not see the point in getting a middle ground pair)
Hi very nice video. It would be interesting to compare the IOTAVX to the SMSL DA9 wich fared pretty well in a previous review. Have you tried the tiny SMSL with the ELACs?
Thanks for the great review yet again, would like to ask if IOTA-VX combo will work well with Raidho-X1 Speakers? not able to find a good amp for my Raidhos-X1, any suggestion be appriciated.
![Twenty One Pilots - The Line (from Arcane Season 2) [Official Audio]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/XCz7WUotXs8/mqdefault.jpg)
Yo ! Which one would you pick and why?
Did you film the "The Blair Witch Project"? That shaky cam ... lol :)
@@laowho my hands were shaky. I need to grow some forearm muscles
@@Jayiyagi There's a reason most guys in audiophile chat can't relate to this comment...
@@Jayiyagi Rebecca must be guilty. At least partially 😜
Rotel. Easier to purchase in US, and I had a Rotel years ago and it was great. Probably go well with my Rega speakers too.
Did somebody say Iotavx? (Materializes into the chat) . First off, well done boys. I enjoyed the easy-going, relaxed vibe of this video. As for Iotavx: To this day, I feel like the SA3 integrated maintains its position as being one of the most well-rounded integerated amps in it's price class. I also prefer the sound of the SA3 by itself as opposed to the combo. While the additional amp (PA3) adds a lot more power, dynamic headroom, and general muscle to the sound - it sacrifices some of the balance and top-end smoothness that I like so much about the SA3. As always, preferences will boil down to room, speakers, and taste. And Jay - Skeptical, huh? That made me smile, and I know that you know why.. :D
The boyz have been OFFICIALLY critiqued….OH MY!!! 😵
I agree with Sean but the Iota has that Vintage flavor no1 talks about !
I have owned and own many vintage amps (neutrality/balanced)
The Iota has a nice sparkle up top also but the Audiolab 6000a gives the Iota a run for the money ! Serously thinking about shipping the 6000a out to my Audio Guru to try out for about 6 months 😆 Comparraion video is posted 😆 between the 2 speaker pairing is huge !
The STACK is what i call a dual mono integrated !!!!!!!!
Great review as I already own the Iota VX combo.
I really did consider the Rotel but the adaptability and features of the Iota won
Can you tell me the exact model of those Elac speakers please.
The only thing not mentioned in your review.
I happy to see you young guys with real listening rooms, enthusiastic about audio. I've enjoyed listening for nearly 50 years and still love it. Thanks from Colorado.
I have had the Iota stack for over a year and have it paired with the Triangle Borea 3 speakers and a Hsu sub and think that is a great combo. More importantly my girlfriend, now my wife, was surprised by how good this system sounds. She was blown away when listening to Pink Floyd’s Pigs. Enough said.
Dude! Your wife likes deep Pink Floyd cuts? You hit the Lotto friend ;)
i own the iota Sa3/Pa3 stack. using Blue Jeans Cabling. Added HSU sub, Carnegie Audio Pedistale speakers. AudioNote 6000CDT transport & Schitt Bifrost 2 Dac. Heaven on earth for last four years! Headphones also sound great on Iota.
I listen to mostly jazz in near field at less than 70db. My own rig for those interested in Iota rigs.
guys I bought the IOTAVX SA3 + PA3 and paired it with KEF R3 speakers and a Denon cd player and sound is fantastic !!
I bought the IOTAVX SA3 after watching Sean's review, ran it for a year or so as an integrated. I bought the KEF LS50 Meta speakers some months ago and decided I'd like more power but decided to go with Class D for my power amp and I went with the Audiophonics MPA-S250NC RCA Stereo Amplifier (it uses the Hypex Ncore NC252MP module) and the detail and dynamics (particularly in the bass) are incredible! 😁
I started off with the Elac Uni-Fi Slims and the IOTAVX sa3, a month later I order the pa3. Then I added a miniDSP 4x10 HD and another pa3. I have since ripped out the miniDSP as it did more harm than good because of how it royally screws up the phase. I have since upgraded the Elacs to Kef Q950's and the sa3 to a NAD C658. I also added 2 JL Audio Dominion D110's. The sound is bliss. Great review guys. I loved it. 🤘
@@AntoineViau-00 No I haven't tried them with the sa3. When I had the Elacs it sounded a million times better with the stack so I never bothered to test the KEF's with the sa3. I am curious now though. 🤔 They are rated 8 ohm but drop down to 3.2 ohms, so I wonder if they are power hungry like the Elacs and want that current for them to open up or not. Maybe one day if I have time, I'll borrow the sa3 back from my son and give it a try.
Now we knew right from the start that the Iota combo has more power than the Rotel. What I expected was a comparison between the two at the same listening level. I’d pick the Rotel, as I’ve had excellent experience with them over the years. Also, the Rotel (at least my current one) has a very conservative approach to tone controls, -/+ 6db.
I have the SA3 +PA3. Funnny thing when I combine the two the center image moves to the left. Have to move left speaker back a bit or use the balance control to get the singer back on center. With the SA3 alone it's is spot on.
thats weird ! we didn't experience that
I would try some different rca cables.
@jesperBP are you using external tone control or are you changing tone on the Iota stack. I had the same issue.
In my case the issue was most felt when i introduced an external tone control. I was new and placed a schiit loki between the SA3 and PA3. That messed up the centering.
After I moved up the loki to before the input into SA3 it got solved. Since then I never rely on the SA3 tone control. I think their implementation is a little wobbly and limiting and messes up centering, especially when you pair the SA3 and PA3 as mono blocks. With schiit loki earlier in the chain, it is magical while retaining pin sharp centre image.
My take, check to see if your centering is messed up even with SA3 tone controls set at zero for bass and treble. That should tell you something.
@@ukbij I don't use any external tone control. It could be RCA cable problem but doubt it. I think it's something internal going on, the sound changes a lot when combining the two and not everything for the better. I agree 200% with Zero Fidelity comment to this video. " I also prefer the sound of the SA3 by itself as opposed to the combo. While the additional amp (PA3) adds a lot more power, dynamic headroom, and general muscle to the sound - it sacrifices some of the balance and top-end smoothness that I like so much about the SA3"
Also the remote control isn't the best. My volume symbols are almost gone and not from crazy extensive use. That is a first for me.
@@JOXperience i agree with your SA3 v/s combo observations. I however wanted the power. My workaround therefore was to add the external tone control and tweak around the edges. It has helped for not much extra. Schiit loki as an add on tone control is fantastic value at that price point with no loss to any of Iotavx's strengths. Gets me back that SA3 sweetness with the power of the PA3 combo.
I own the SA3 + PA3 combo for about 6 months now and am really happy with it. Run it with KEF LS50s plus a Rel T5i sub. Sounds great in my opinion. Might upgrade the amp soon to a Technics SU-G700 (unfortunately not often reviewed) but more as I prefer the modern retro looks of it. Might still hold on to the IOTAVX for using it in another room.
Hi Vander I’m thinking of being the Iotavx. If you buy again would you know owning it for a few months or would you buy something els.
@@felixlaboy1453 I think I still would buy it again as the sound is actually great for the price. My system is not in a separate listening room, but in my living room so very visible. The IOTAVX looks are also not bad but when I think of my youth in the 80s and 90s I just immediately fell in love with the looks (and the VU meters) of the Technics. As said probably not even going to sell the IOTAVX.
@@bvander131313 any chance you have tried connecting dual Rel T5i on the Iotavx stack? If you did how did it perform? I have the SA3 with Triangle BR03. No subwoofer yet. Thanks.
@@larrywarner9775 Sorry, have got only one sub. This works/sounds great though.
@@bvander131313 thanks for the reply
Nice review, guys! Really glad you are liking those Uni-Fi Reference speakers! I might have to pick up a pair when they are available. I have the Uni-Fi UB52's, more or less the same speaker with a slightly smaller bass driver. It's amazing how good these sound! They have such great tone and they image and soundstage exceptionally well. When they are set up properly on good stands, away from walls, and in a treated room like you and I have they are hard to beat. I have modified mine as well, upgraded the binding posts to rhodium plated pure copper and went in and did a NoRez-like internal dampening of the enclosure. Sounds fantastic! Incredibly, they are the least expensive component in my system (my speaker cables cost more) and they do not seem out of place at all. I am driving them with a modified Schiit Vidar and a Musical Paradise MP701 MKII tube preamp (Mundorf's throughout).
Don't forget folks, you can also use the Rotel as a preamp! Get yourself a Rotel power amp! Two choices 130 watts per channel to 200 Watts per channel... low level listening, match made in heaven.
I like the younger direction this channel is taking. Some senior citizen was droning on about audio gear previously and it put be to sleep.
Great review. I have a wide range of music taste, for me the A11 combined with the Dali Zensor 5 AX suited my taste the best. Very detailed and great soundstage, even at low volumes.
It's really heartwarming to see such great values in audio where you can get great sound without having to take out a Mortgage. Good job guys
Can't wait for your Unifi Reference review!
Rotel anytime. Should have done without the PA3 so that the power level is more or less the same.
This review and a few others led me to pick up the SA3, plan on getting the PA3 next, currently paired with a pair of Wharfedale D320s. Very entry level for sure, but is working well, although w the addition of the PA3 I’ll be looking at speaker upgrade.
I would probably choose the iota stack because I like the look of separates. I wish they came in Silverdale.
It seems everybody loves the Iotavx sound and I'm sure I would like it as well. I'm just not sure I could get past the looks - VX reminds me of the cheap midi hifi systems looks of the 80's/90's. The Rotel Tribute looks the biz and I have always been a fan of the KI sound which favors the midrange. Thanks for a great A/B comparison!
Go Thujan! Welcome back
❤️
WOW! Great price. I would go with the TWO IOTAVX PA3 Power Amps, as I have a Schiit Freya +……but I prefer more power and I am currently saving for a pair of Kinki Studio EX-B7 Monoblocs to go with my Dynaudio Contour 20s 😎
That was cool. You two hangin' loose and just having fun with modestly priced gear! 👍🏻😁
I have the Iotavx stack and consider upgrading the preamp to freya+. How do you like your Freya so far?
@@NBK6KP9 The Freya + is great because you can do multiple sound signatures with the three operation modes…and have fun with the tubes. I am driving a 40-year old Bob Carver C-500 Amp @250 wpc@8ohms with the Freya using NOS tubes. It sounds fantastic "to me".
Do you have the same stac as Jay? Is the preamp in the integrated unit lacking?
Hi again, although I originally bought the 606s2 anniversary, I did buy the elac ubr62 and yes pairing sound pretty good , regards mark
For near field listening in smaller spaces the $70 Soundcore is an even better steal. I am saying this cause I tried 50w amps around $ 500-1000range and wasn’t satisfied at all. They will sound slightly bigger than the soundcore with bookshelves or will be wooly and lifeless with tower speakers. The truth is, for big hifi sound, even with bookshelves l, you need 100w+ power. We’re talking about $2500 and up for integrateds or separates to attain that big hifi sound.
IOTA VX definitely ...looking forward to what you guys have to say in detail about the Elacs !
IOTAVX sa3 will be a classic vintage amp one-day, much like the SA60 from Cambridge audio.
I really enjoyed your new approach with your new review process!! Reminds me of a time in my life in Hifi sales talking to friends and clients having a good time enjoying the experience with new gear. Miss that. Thanks Guys!!
I would choose the Rotel over the Iota VX. Pair the Elacs with the Rel subs in the back, the refinement would shine through over the grain and headroom of the Iota VX.🤙🏽
Love the T-shirt. My favourite budget integrated was Arcam. I couldn’t afford the FMJ series at the time
Love this review guys! I am currently running a Retro Rotel Rc- 970 BX Mark ll Stereo Controller and Rotel RB 956 ABX with Elac Debut Reference and I am in love! I have found that sound that takes me to my happy place! Please keep up the great work!
Off all my stereo amplifiers that i ever own, only the iotavx stack has caught my wife's attention, she loves the sound.
now this geting down and dirty with comparo thumbs up to you....
Nice review as usual.
I see Emotiva has released a new Pre PT1 at $400 and a Power amp A2 at $450 I hope you get a chance to review this combo and with the Elacs ub62 Ref
Does Elac have impactful punch? E.g. compared to KEF R3?
I don't own or buy budget gear these days, but that's not how I started years ago. So I wonder how the Yamaha AS 801 integrated would stack up against these two amps? The Yamaha is in the same price range, has an on board dac and a very nice front end. I have not owned one but if I were in this market I would want to hear the Yamaha.
I've heard the 701s can drive elac unifi ub52 2.0s very nicely so I'm on the verge of getting the 801.
@@robertwoodward9231 - Congrats. the 801, like Yamaha, have been around for quite a while. Unlike other company's who have the latest and greatest amp every year, Yamaha does not play that bullshit game, they make a quality amp and sell it for years. Happy listening.
I'd like to see someone do a review on the new Musical Fidelity M6 500si since Pro-Ject took over and started manufacturing it at a much reduced price. I'd like to see the control of 500wpc on speakers.
Good review here as usual though.
Thanks
How about emotiva basx preamp and A2 to compare sub 1k system.
Rare video!
Jay actually could smile!
Could you please review the Audiolab 6000a? If you’ve already heard it, could you compare it to the SA3 + PA3 combo?
@@AntoineViau-00 speaker choice is probably the biggest factor. Synergy matters.
How do the Elac’s sound in comparison to Tekton Lore?
Great question.
I Know some people may liken any comparison between those two very different speakers to comparing apples to oranges, but that's a comparison I'm definitely hoping for from these guys.
Thanks - really nice video. Loads of fun. You guys are the closest we will get to the equivalent of Harold and Kumar being interested in hifi gear. 😁
It's perfect. But ru Happy with the logo on the Amp.. 🤔
It would be nice if you mentioned the model name of the Elac speaker, or mentioned it in the notes….
You should audition The Rega Brio amp 😎
Great review. Love the room set up, colours of wall and the use of accoustic mats...and the Eames chair. Been weighing between Rotel A11 or Rotel RB-1552 MK II Stereo Power Amplifier and running off my Yam Rec connected to Yam NSF-700. Will check out IOTA which may match well?
Marantz PM 6005 with 25th Anniversary Triangle Comètes ( 2007 Model)
I had a Rotel 12 but was disappointed in its sound. I had to turn the treble way down. It was much too bright. I had a Peachtree 300, but sold it after buying the Iota sa3 +pa 3 combo. There was little difference between the two amps. 300 watts vs 100 watts, but I didn't need the extra power of the Peachtree. Price was a big issue, the Preachtree costing twice as much as the Iota combo.
It would be neat to see how the newly realesed Pt1 and A2 from Emotiva compares to these.
I agree. I am in that camp that is looking at the Emotiva as well. What will do it for me is probably the bass management / high and low pass filters of the Emotiva. I was so sold on Rotel, until I realized how valuable speaker equalization would be.
Check out the cheapaudioman review. He did a Saturday integrated shootout with the iota stack vs emotive stack. Excellent review.
Wonder why this combo was chosen i like to see Itova and Emotiva go head to head. I might be bias but think separates will always sound better. But on the Rotel which is the best sounding a11, a12, or a14?
Just fixed my re-capped Arcam 8R (had to swapout the MOSFETS) - bi-amped with a 8P (also re-capped) - the A11 will be on sale soon - has some nice features but just does not sound nearly as good as the old kit.
Hi , great interesting video, I bought a11 cd11 and t11 set up with b&w dm602s3 , I had to by ifi zen v2 dad, I did look at the iota p3 , and no3 , I went with Rotel because I got a good packed deal , but thinking about this I should now bought the iota now as has built in DAC and lot more inputs. I recently bought b&w 606 s2 annerversary only because its was £349, as s3 is now out. I was if I had the money looking at Moniter audio silver 100 7g, or whalfdale evo 4.2 and others , regards mark
Did two of you just say "more brighter"? way to go
Great video! Love the set up and style!
I have the Magnepan LRS speakers. Would the IOTAVX SA3 + PA3 drive the speakers?
The iotavx combo should arrive today. Speakers I have kef 350, elac uni5 bookshelf, and wharfedale linton. So I have some options
You have a beautiful room 😉 I like the room dividers
Hi guys nice review how does it compare to the naim nait 5si
my very first receiver was a ten watt Rotel . It cost 99 dollars in 1977. Got it along with a BSR turntable and Sound Design speakers. The system cost 200 dollars and was basically a joke. I was a critical douche bag at 13 I guess. Got if for a birthday present. I quickly upgraded to a 35 watt Harmon Kardon receiver, Lafayette speakers, and a Technics SLD2. Rotel has always been mid-fi with a marketed team that reads Stereophile.
Perhaps put the rotel with its associated power amp and then I'll chose that .
Have you guys heard the Cambridge Audio AXR100? Curious how you’d compare the two?
something I look at near every day for hours - I won't have fake vinyl wood and I won't have uglee black.... my 'modern' system > KEF Q 350 (with real Oak veneer glued on , $ 55. ) and Cambridge 100 w receiver.
Refreshing presentation, well done. 👍👍
I feel like I need to compliment you after my last remark. Your room looks great, your audio components are great, your commentary is great. Im a subscriber and enjoy your content.
Jay soulsik I'm not sure if I should go with klipsch rp600m or bowers 606 or 607 or dali oberon 3 for both music n movies with Yamaha RX v6a what should I use I like treble but not to much n love bass
We need to get you a gimbal for those handheld shots. I followed you over from your time at Audio Excellence CA so I’m fairly new to your channel. Your listening space seems quite small but I’m wondering if the camera angle is distorting things. What are the dimensions of your listening room?
Great review as always! Would you recommend the SA/PA combo or just the SA3 with a pair of Br03s?
I picked up the Iota SA3 and two PA3's for $600 on Craig's List. I'm using it with a Bellari PA555 and Polk R200's. Sounds pretty damn good. I do want to try out those new Elac's though. I have a thing for three-way bookshelf speakers.
They should have used a larger amplifier in the Tribute, 50 wpc is not enough if you have a higher impedemence speaker. I could see it running out of gas, and that is what has been reported more than a few times. I look at the Cambridge AXR100 or CXA81... They have the oomph at less than and or the same price point.
Hi !! In addition to Kef R5 and Svs 3000 micro, what stereo amplifier can you recommend?
Rotel Cambridge Hegel Nad Naim??????
Thank you
Have a Nice Day
I'd probably go for two PA3 power amp's and a separate pre.
Hi jay , nicely done , I would liked to see you connect the rotel with your b&w's , I think you would be surprised .
Are those speakers suitable for desktop listening? Hope Thujen got to test them out that way!
Honest question for you, how much do you think the looks of a particular piece of gear sway our minds and ears to some degree in listening tests, or even our minds bias toward a company name maybe that we may be fond of or not fond of 🤔 take for instance the rotel is silver colored so could that lend one to believe what they are hearing is more Trebly, versus the black amplifier having more grunt and a bit grainy on top. I’m always curious about the psychological relationships between the sounds we hear while we’re staring at the equipment in the room that we’re listening to, How much do looks really play a role in what we here, I think it has more to do with it then we may think, but I’m not a psychologist, But it is a curious question that I find myself asking myself all the time when I’m comparing gear, How much does subconscious bias really play a role?
subconscious plays a role at every level in our lives. No exception with audio. While I don't think a black unit will make you think it sounds the opposite... It is also true for the reverse as well; for instance, I recently started reviewing Audio Note gear and I absolutely hated the way it looked but the sound captured me off guard and suddenly it looks a lot more attractive. Happened to me a few times where the undesirable looks became more desirable when the sound was good.
As a neuroscientist, I tell people this; clear your mind and let yourself be human. Our minds are built to fool ourselves for a reason. What we perceive is the truth, the truth being "your truth." After all, the mind creates the world we see and hear, so how much of it do you trust... is that silver unit really silver? haha
I would test a system with acoustic instruments and a human voice. I don’t see how you can evaluate the sound of the system based on electronic music. I got my first serious audio system with a SOTA Sapphire turntable and Proac Response 3 speakers with tube amp & preamp. I prefer the sound of the Wharfdale Linton 85 Heritage to the Elac.
is that a Rotel RA 1592 bottom rack on the long wall?
Thanks - Iota for me . Try with my Spatial Audio X3's
Hi. Thanks for the video. Those Elacs seem to be pretty good choice. What about pairing them to a Sprout 100 ? Do you think that would work, or the iota is a much better choice?? thanks
I use the sa3 as preamp and pa3 as amp... It sounds so much better than running it as mono block or just the sa3 alone.
that's what I heard. I have my pa3 hooked up to my Denon 3600h.
@@urbz6712 I will definitely run it as separate if your listening room isn't too big or your speakers isn't too demanding. You will get a better overall sound and imaging.
@@NBK6KP9 Hello Anthony. Can you please describe how you connected the SA3 as a preamp to the PA3? Like from what port in the SA3 to which port in the PA3. My source is a Bluesound Node which can also act as a preamp. If I understand you correctly, both your speakers are just connected to the PA3 right? Any chance you are using dual subwoofers? If you are how did you connect it? Sorry for the noob questions. Just starting in audio. Thanks
@@larrywarner9775 I have a similar setup as you but I am only using one sub. I connected the node directly to the the sa3 input since I am not using a separated dac. Then I connected the sa3(pre out) to the pa3(amp in). Btw what kind of speakers are you using.
@@NBK6KP9 I am using Triangle BR03. So from preout SA3 to amp in PA3 then your speakers are only connected to the PA3 and both the switches of the SA3 and PA3 are in "Stereo". Your subwoofer is then connected to PA3 for highpass? Am I correct? Thanks for your reply.
Someone should say upfront that these $1000 amps with 40-50watts of power will only power small bookshelf speakers at moderate listening levels.
I would choose the combo over the Rotel, but the Rotel over the SA 3 stand alone
Nicely done - thanks
🤓In simple words: Rotel A11 is a fastidious amp, YOTA is more lenient. Music make the differences to pop up!
Can you bypass the built in DAC and use an external DAC?
I would have loved to see the two compared using external dacs.
Are you planning on doing the review on the Stark Sound soon?
I have a Xtz edge a2-300. Do you think this iota sound better, or is a side step? Please advice me so I can decide what to do. Thanks.
Xtz edge a2-300 is supposed to be a nice amp. Maybe a better pre or dac/pre would bring out the best in it. The amps are all going to have a different flavor. The Soundartist SA-200IA which Jay reviewed several months ago was too bright in the upper mids and highs but it is well under a grand (not to mention some QC issues).
Schiit, Audiolab, Rotel, Rega among others make some good budget gear with some offering a higher end sound at moderate sound levels and with appropriate system matching.
Personally, I use a Keces E40 which produces very low distortion with reasonable output say 34/62 watts at 8/4 ohms respectively. It has alot of grunt but isn't grainy, smooth, detailed giving up just a touch of that high frequency aire but adds a solid, tight, fast bass with good depth in the SS. Reminds me of my Hegel amp at a much lower cost and weight/size.
Otherwise, I too considered the Xtz edge a2-300. I still prefer a good class AB personally, but like class D also.
@@nc3419thank you very much, really appreciate your input.
Is the previously reviewed SMSL DA9 comparable to these amps ? Or is it in a complete lower league ?
Which elac speaker is this?
I just got an A11 for £430 or $486 brand new, was supposed to be £600 from Richer Sounds but a few UK retailers were selling for £430 so I got it price matched by them, the guy in the shop couldn't belive it haha. Seems like a right steal. Replaced a NAD 3130 that I've had about 10 years (left channel/volume kept cutting in and out). Using a Cambridge Audio DAC Magic Plus and Dali Zensor 1. It sounds fantastic but I will be upgrading the speakers soon - any suggestions? Thinking of going up to around £1500 or so (that would be my end game IMO so do not see the point in getting a middle ground pair)
Hi very nice video. It would be interesting to compare the IOTAVX to the SMSL DA9 wich fared pretty well in a previous review. Have you tried the tiny SMSL with the ELACs?
The Outlaw RR2160 and or Rega Brio
Take away the added features, the Outlaw still offers more power. If a smaller size is desired, maybe the Rega.
Thanks for the great review yet again, would like to ask if IOTA-VX combo will work well with Raidho-X1 Speakers? not able to find a good amp for my Raidhos-X1, any suggestion be appriciated.
I’m pretty sure you have said this in the past but what are the dimensions of your room? Also, what is that chair!?
Review the chair. I love Ames chairs.
Do you? The designer was Eames. Not sure what an Ames chair is.
@@crowsonthedock Really? You are not sure what an Ames chairs is? Or what a misspelling is?
Do you think that Rotel 11 is a good match For KEF R3 ?
Hey so what's that stunning looking tube device with the chrome transformer covers on the floor? Have you already reviewed it in an earlier video?
Would the IOTAVX combo work with our favorite budget Maggies?
actually, yes, it should drive the LRS
@@Jayiyagi Do you think they would sound decent?
@@korling99 I think so !
How would the Iota mix with the 40 Triangle Comètes ?!? Thanx
emotiva a2 + emotiva PT100 should have been here
Have you listen to IOTAVX AVX17. How does it perform with movies and 2 channel music.
which of those is better to pair with my wharfedale diamond 12.2?