Boulder 866 Integrated Review - The Best Integrated Ever?
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- Опубликовано: 22 авг 2024
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Please subscribe and like this video. You know the more people i see subscribing, the more willing I am to keep bringing affordable audio components. You have the power in your hands to make me continue with this level of electronics!
Nice review.....great job Jay.
@@damaisentosa4631 thanks
I have Diablo 300 and E800 by myself, and I also had a chance to listen to an 866. It is all about what speaker you used. I paired E800 with Tannoy. It was really amazing. I paired Diable with SF Serafino, and it was also done well. However, when I exchanged to use Diablo300 with Tannoy and E800 with Sonus Faber, they were really not well matched. I heard an 886 with Focal Diablo Evo, it was perfect as well. So, it is all about synergy.
Thanks for you comment and experience shared!
866 with sonus faber ON3 is alot better than E800.....period!
@@seowlay9897 Maybe. All about synergy. Both Diablo300, 866 and E800 are great int. amp.
That’s very interesting ! Currently I really want to hear the Boulder integrated , or a pass labs preamp+amp class a combo.
Was looking at Focal Diablo Utopia and also at Yamaha NS-5000 ( really want a more neutral speaker ). For DAC I wanted a dCS but I think I might go for a solid Bricasti instead
I think this is your best review so far! It really captured your enthusiasm.
Thanks man
I have the Bel Canto Black Ex Integrated (15k) which has everything onboard including phono section, and does a knockout job. Now of course would be interested to hear how some of these different models in the same ballpark would fare in a War of the Super-Integrateds (although the guy as Twittering Machines has been covering a lot of that gear). It's really nice to have upgraded to gear like this, at once very simple to use and also sounds great (and updates come over WiFi). Looking forward to more like this!
Thanks
I really liked the bel canto black, I think I heard the one which is ~10k between the 7-15k. I believe there are three versions, and to be honest I found the NAD M23 to be a better unit. I think the bass isn't as good but everything else is definitely equal or better. Also never heard them side by side so strictly going on memory. Bought the M23 and it works great and with phenomenal price tag too
Jay I could not agree more. I could not believe how good it was. It does nothing wrong. At all. Zilch Nada. It’s so clean and fresh sounding. Light fast and airy. Great timbe and no added harshness. If you haven’t yet, check out the krell i300. 6k cheaper and boy are you going to love it.
Right on
Thank You Jay! i am one of the Fist pers who got that Amp in CH . At 13:14 it is Exactly what I thought too. My Amp is runing with an Verity Audio Sarrastro S ii. It make 22Hz Bass. It doesn't need a Remote because it ist runing eather with Tbl or your Phone. The cons are somewhat based on weak reasoning. Depending on the speaker, you can have music from less than 30. Software has been updated and the movement is much better. 200W is absolutely sufficient it's about sound quality and not who can scream louder.
Gryphon integrated 👍
Detailed and fair review Jay. I completely agree with your assessment. In particular the need for more power to deliver the full capability of true full range speakers. This is exactly why many of us moved away from integrated amps to Mono blocks. In my opinion the 866 would be a great pairing for those who like to listen to their music below 85 dbs, or own two way bookshelf/stand speakers. By your description of the musical sonic traits of the dac it's likely an AKM chip based dac. Sadly Boulder does not go into detail on the internal dac. Thanks Jay.
Thanks David
Below 85dB requires only about 10 watts with a typical sensitivity in a typical room at a typical distance.
Great review Jay
Once again great video Jay. You seem like good people dude.....that comes through your RUclips channel. Keep up the good work man.
I appreciate that!
Jay how does it compare with the Gryphon Diablo 300?🤔
Not sure
No temote control, is great for me! Thanks for this review, Jay
Jay doesn't realize his own strength as he shakes the amp and says, "I think I unplugged it!!!"
Lol
I remember that Boulder claims that the DAC of 866 uses their state of art technology and I also saw some reviewers said that you only need to replace its DAC with ULTRA HIGH-END product.
As I tried it compare with some high price products in stereo shops, I honestly believe 866 owners have no worry about the DAC parts.
The biggest con of Boulder 866 is lacking a way to expand its power.
If 866 can have a pre out and mono or bridge mode, I think Boulder can sell many more units. (and lose some market of 1160/1110 products🤣)
Indeed
Jay, muy buena revisión. No hay más qué decir! Gracias!
how does the 866 compare to the gryphon diablo 300?
It's more transparent and musical. Not as dark and the dac alone in the boulder is outstanding.
I had the opportunity to hear the Boulder 866 back-to-back against the Diablo 300 and the Pass Labs INT-250, and I ended up buying a Diablo 300. Why? Diablo had more power, was more dynamic, incredible bass. It does lean to the warm side of neutral, but with no shortage of detail both macro and micro. I would rate the Pass INT-250 second, and the Boulder 866 third. For reference, I am using an external DAC and phono stage, so I'm not the target customer for the Boulder, as I want to be able to experiment with different components (especially DAC's) and improve my system over time. Frankly, I was not impressed with the sonics of Boulder's "all-in-one" solution, and don't even get me started on the user interface/experience. Jay touched on that, but he politely pulled his punches, IMO.
@@AudiolandCH Agreed
866 is very transparent and so the target audience is different.
If you are looking for transparency and clarity, go 866 directly.
If you are looking for a bigger power, it is another story.
But Jay's review is greatly beneficial, Pass INT 250 is a solution for bigger power integrate amplifier without DAC.
No remote? That's crazy! And we all know that $15 remote is really gonna be $100 lol! Very good review , volume thing is weird too.
Thanks
Theres a $15 Amazon remote that works with the 866
@@HiFiTurtle can you post it?
@@gil3green the link is pinned in the comments of my Boulder 812 review
The T+A integrated is that 22k price range with 300 watts a channel. You can even upgrade it with another power supply for 15000 later that just powers the amp and the internal power supply of the T+A powers just the preamp and digital. So you can turn it into almost separates later and it doubles the current output of the amp.as bonus. Ja Germans Smart!
OK
Jay I would love for you to review the D'Agostino Progression Integrated and maybe even the Momentum Integrated
Congrats. Boulder is very good, but the best we’ve heard is the Vitus MP-I201 Integrated. Between them and their mono series, there’s nothing else that compares.
I disagree
Had the chance to compare both the Vitus and the boulder side by side in my set up and I went with the Vitus. Absolutely no regrets. After sending both back…I realise I only wanted to hear the Vitus everyday. Didn’t miss the Boulder.
You are comparing a 14k$ with a 100+k$ integrate!
@@airol99 ah I shld have been clearer…I got the RI-101 MK2…that was my comparison.
Great review, and I like this price point. Keeping in that general price realm, do you think you’ll have any interest in checking out the PS Audio FR20 or FR30?
Nice review, thanks
Thanks for watching!
do a shootout with the gryphon diablo and luxman
OK
@@jaysaudiolab or maybe just integrated with builtin dacs boulder 866 , gryphon diablo , mcintosh ma12000
Hey Jay. How would you stack this against the Mark Levinson 585.5. Has been one of the foundation integrateds on the market. Phono section is killer and the Dac is really nice. Would love a comparison.
Hi brother loved all your reviews, thanks for that. Could you plz suggest what you recon would be the best among Boulder 866 Gryphon 300 and Mcintosh MA 12000 Integrated Amps. I have Focal Sopra N3 for speakers .
Would like to see Audio Note, Verity, Marten and Spectral gear if possible. In fact, see if you can get interviews with Peter Qvortrup and Richard Fryer, Jay.
Probably won't happen
Spectral?
Sure thing, Jay will order a component from them and will put up the video mid-2024 when it arrives.
@@VideoArchiveGuy Wow, didn't know it was like that.
@@nkenchington6575 Yes, Spectral has long had an attitude of "place your order, and you'll get it when you get it."
Please compare the Boulder 866 to the new Bladelius Audio ODEN Integrated amp !
The Boulder 866 was in the running when I bought my Simaudio 390 and 760A combo for my second system. I was very impressed with the Boulder except for the lack of streaming without a third party app. Love Tidal Connect and Qobuz without using Roon. Since the 2nd system is digital only so I would have needed a streamer. Have you heard the 390 if so how did you like it?
I have the simadio moon 280d streaming dac and it sound incredible especially for the money 😁
Nope
Exactly why I DIDN'T purchase the 390; it was a great preamp/DAC but I saw no sense in buying a streamer when I never stream.
Good review. I pretty much agree with yer sonic impressions of it. Good job Jay.
Hey, thanks!
I suggested an alternative integrated amplifier with measurements from soundstage magazine and Dr. Johnson at Secrets of Home Theater & High Fidelity. I also referenced a German magazine which ranks all electronic components monthly including integrated amplifiers and my comments seem to have been removed. Why?
Morning jay i hope everyone is safe and well 😁 the Audiovector r8 speakers might be worth a look along with the simaudio moon equipment anyway please stay safe and thanks again for the videos 😁 one thing I did pick up was last week you said about how you didn't like naim because you have to stick to all naim equipment which isn't true but this week you are saying you might get the boulder top end dac because of the synergy !!!! How is that any different from the naim equipment ? I think I raise a fair point 😁
Naim doesn't work well with other things. Boulder does
Jay, big up your RUclips channel. Please does blouder amp sound better with the stromtank or not?
Depends on the Boulder
The integrated amplifier
The 866 is a truly excellent amp in every way. Sound, build, design. Engagement is 1000%. Home auditioned this and loved it, agree with what you say. Ended up with the 1161, which was a lot like the 866 but a bit “more”.
In context to hard to drive speakers, it really depends on how much current the unit has. Wonder what the amp rating is on the unit, peak and constant. Maybe the website has it, that should be clear sign of what this int can do
Jay picks that thing up like I pick up a dictionary!😂
Lol yep
It's not heavy lol
Right, I thought he was going for 12-reps at least there!
If you don't subscribe NOW Jay will ram your head through the drywall.
Do the right thing folks!
Hahaha
Hi what your comment on 866 match ATC 20 for Jazz music? Can be got the best bass and dynamic? Thanks advise
Do you think it would pair well with focal speakers?
magnifico.💯💯💯💯💯💯
Thanks
I got rid of my chord Dave and mscaler .The gryphon internal dac for Diablo 300 was just as good if not better in other ways(synergy).
Indeed
Jeff Rowland integrated, Continuum S2, give it a try
OK
Hi Jay,
I’m a big fan of your channel. I live in central Florida. Wondering if you could show me your audio room? Thanks
I think you have to become a member.
Thanks for the info.
Let’s try audio note
On what speakers? Doesn't work in magico.
@@AudioheavenDenmark on audio note uk speakers
@@matzeflamingos don't think he would like them to be honest.
I really like this video high end is nice but affordable gear is better .I listen to tidal through a
Denon 3700h to a pair of emotiva hpa 300 watts
Mono to a pair of revel concerta f36 and rel t5x subwoofers and 4 rsl speedwoofers.
Is that a total of 6 subs in a stereo system?
Thanks for sharing
8 subs two tzero
Boulder should add remote if it's only $15.. ? 🤔
Maybe
Hi Jay. Can you review the Gryphon Diablo 120 perhaps?
Maybe
Whats your opinion on open baffle speakers?
None
Gryphon Diablo 120.
OK
I'm interested... Would this pair better with my Wilson Sasha 2's over my MC MA12000?
Yours is rated at 2 ohms. Keep it.
Yes
No. The Ma12000 is miles ahead in power and sound quality.. Better dac and riaa to.
Another cons, it does not seem to have rca input... can be troublesome if you want to plug some device, like turntable... Anyway, do you know if volume is controlled by digital or analogue ?
This review was pretty nice ! thanks
Nothing Boulder sells offers RCA as far as I know. It's all XLR across every model. They do include adapters with their phono stage. I have the 866 & 508.
Good point!
to answer my own question, and if by chance anyone is interested by the answer, quote from absolutesound "The 866’s volume control is digitally controlled analog, with a series of CMOS switches controlling the resistor-ladder attenuator." I kind want this amplifier... I can replace 3 boxes into one, and i like boulder sound (based from demos in show, not youtube)
Boulder sells RCA -> XLR adapters.
They weren't even able to put a 50 euro touch display on that device which costs way too much for what it can do.
Highly efficient loudspeaker like a Focal Sopra 3?
Works great with Sopra 3s. 866 pushed those woofers to limits. Sopra 3s are at around 90db
Yes
I built a 200 watt/channel Class A/B amp for about $300 in parts. Sounds amazing. I really don't understand how people sell amps in this wattage range for more than $500 unless the box the $300 in parts are in, is made of solid gold or platinum or something. Since they charge $14,000 for this amp, I am assuming that case is made of Platinum. That would explain the silvery finish. If you can, ask to purchase this amp in a simple sheet metal case and you may save $13,000 off the price.
Well done as always sir. Have you given any more thought to any of the PSAUDIO amps, dacs or speakers? I know they are considered mid-fi but your willingness to go down to that level in the past few vids almost requires you to give them a chance. HOPING AND PRAYING. Thanks.
Not yet!
Does it have tone controls? Bass and treble?
No
Beautiful integrated, looks like it’s due for an update
I think so too!
@@jaysaudiolab dan diagostino said he is building new integrated amp based on relentless, now that’s going to be interesting.
I don't get people who think components need an update because they don't like the cosmetics.
Boulder is likely to keep the 866 in their product line unchanged for another decade or so.
I thought Jay loved Luxman the most?
Jay - I assume that this pre-amp would work well with Wilson speakers ?
Yes
It's not a preamp
What is up dude? Do you still play red book CDs, HDCDs, SACDs, Chesky high quality recordings and which of these sources appeal most to your cold intellect and those which arouse the highest passions in your listening to your set - ups and space?
The DAC option sound quality is a bit of a letdown and outboard DAC may be more appropriate. BTW peak power into 2 ohms is spec'd at 700 wpc but continuous is more like 600wpc. I also find the unit rather lightweight especially at this price point and competitive integrateds can be twice as heavy.
Kk
Hi, is the 866 SS, Class D, or both?
Watch the review again. It's there
Can you try the Accuphase E-5000😅
Doubt it
I still disagree with built-in dacs because they always get updated every year
Please try Devialet stuff
OK
The touch screen is terrible! It is very laggy and not intuitive at all. It won't last.
Dude, you've lost your insanity! E800 is a beast that really makes music! I'm unsubscribing, because you're biased. Boulder probably paid for this review.
i was turned off by the looks when i considered this - the sides are a bit strange to me...
K
Buy a Bryston, better value.
Hm
This or a McIntosh MA9500 integrated?
Which speakers? I could tell you where the 866 would be better suited. For example slower and warmer speakers. This boulder is incredible dynamic and fast.
MA12000 would be a closer comparison
@@mikebracco890, how is a tube amp a closer comparison to this?
My guess, Jay, is that you really won't like vinyl and you won't like tubes. But just a guess.
He has tried all of the above using 5-6 figure equipment.
@@connorduke4619 exactly
Jay, I liked your channel much better when you featured the ultra high-end, cost-no-object audio gear for us to lust over. Much more interesting, exciting and intriguing to see and hear speakers and electronics which are unattainable to the vast majority of audiophiles like me, rather than the more common, less expensive stuff that just about anyone can afford. I find the "Ferrari and Rolls-Royce" of high end audio gear far more fascinating than the (although not exactly cheap) "Honda and Toyota" of high-end audio (LOL). Nevertheless, I continue to appreciate and enjoy your efforts. Keep it up!!!
No way! This is very helpful ! He’s a fantastic reviewer for this mid-level equipment that many of us are truly interested.
@@brentcollins9727 thanks
Obviously, a mix of both will satisfy a wider audience. More knowledge, more power.
Love you brother but your concept of "affordable" and the concept in the minds of average tax paying citizens is a universe of a bridge too far. $2500 might be affordable but $15k not so much! :) Cheers
Technics su-r1000 is only 9995usd....
And a lot better
@@audiolife5038 some would say so. I know I would. But then again. It's a matter of taste. But as an int amplifier. The su-r1000 has really impressed me. And I've had it up against som really heavy hitters. Including Boulder 866. Night and day difference in favor of the su-r1000. But thats just my opinion and a few other's that visited me to.
And what happens if the Techics needs service in a few years?Are you gonna ship a $10,000 amp to Malaysia and back? Or will it become a 50 pound paperweight?
@@brentcollins9727 no. They have service in Europe. And why should it ever need service? It's not like they break down all the time hehe
@@AudioheavenDenmarkHello, Before you purchased the Technics did you audition/ compare with the Michi X-5 integrated? Both were highly rated on Rang und Namen monthly ranking in a German magazine. My problem is I do not have a dealer for either nearby; both have received great reviews. We have 1,500 albums so I am also interested in your impressions of the phono stage. What does the rest of your system consist of? Thanks in advance.
We know it's real with you and not dollar motivated. You don't sell 866's. Thanks!
I appreciate that
It's on sale on his website.
Vitus better
K
"not the best" as related to this product is a no-go... BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!
?
Jay that review looked a bit painful for you to make. your glances to the side during your review sort of revealed your uncertainty. I appreciate your delve into this lower end for you but you seemed a bit uncomfortable with your assessment as your conviction wasn't there compared to higher level electronics review. Like I said, I appreciate you stepping out of your comfort zone and reviewing more accessible electronics for your followers. Keep pushing my brother.
YOUR Audio is Awful
Cool
My Sony e86 has 150khz down too 3hz, frequencies
Still lacks micro details superfine pinpoint accrusy.
Listening too heavy mix like 50cent inTheclub, the musican sound engineer 50cent the artist himself, when I listen too the original soundtrack recording in the actual studio, vs home hifi is day night difference. The soundstage is super 180 degrees wide , very spacious I can pinpoint every instruments being played. There were 13 people with different instruments in the studio which I even can hear , but with that amplifier and focal grand I couldn't.
frequency response of the Boulder 866 as 3Hz to 71kHz ±0.5dB and 3Hz to 122kHz ±1.5dB, proving it to be a very wideband design. The frequency response across the audio band was exceptionally good, which I’ll get to later in this report. Channel separation was outstandingly good for a single-chassis amplifier, with Newport Test Labs reporting separation of 114dB at 20Hz, 132dB at 1kHz and 115dB at 20kHz. Although all those results are great, the result at 20kHz is exceptionally good. There are very, very few amplifier that can deliver three figure separation results at 20kHz.
Channel balance was also excellent, with the lab reporting a difference at 1kHz of only 0.09dB. Channel phase errors were almost unmeasurably low at low frequencies, and while the result of 1.32° at 20kH
Affordable bahahahahahhahaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Affordable?
For this Channel it is