Alongside the AV preamp or stereo preamp, an amplifier is the second piece of a separates-based audio system—it provides the power for your speakers.
Going the separates route is generally considered to be the higher-performance option, as opposed to using an all-in-one AV receiver, because the manufacturer can focus more on selecting just the right components and design elements for that device’s specific function. And you can focus on choosing the right amplifier technology (Class A, Class AB, Class D, etc.) and configuration (mono, stereo, five-channel, etc.) for your needs.
Learn more about amplifiers through the Resources below, then check out our review archive to read the latest amplifier reviews.
• AV Receivers vs. AV Separates: Which Is Right for You?
• How to Pick the Right Amp for Your Speakers (or Vice Versa)
• What’s So Irresistible About a Single-Ended Triode (SET) Amp?
• Amplifier Types Explained from Electronic House
In 2024, Audio Engine N22 Gen 2 feels like an aging dinosaur in a rapidly evolving Hi-Fi world.
Naim's Uniti Star is a compelling product that delivers superb quality, especially for CD-loving aficionados.
An 8-channel bridgeable class A/B amp that is both custom install-friendly and audiophile quality.
This amplifier is a dream machine for music lovers and home theater enthusiasts living the audiophile lifestyle.
This relatively compact and unassuming amplifier was asked to fill some big shoes. I was curious to see how this much less expensive amplifier from an unpretentious manufacturer would...
The Rotel RA-1572 has it where it counts - Dennis thinks it might be the the Millennium Falcon of integrated stereo amplifiers. Read on for more.
Marantz introduces a budget-friendly two-channel integrated amp with standout features and great sound.
Chris Martens says the iFi Pro iDSD 4.4 delivers the richest mix of audiophile-oriented features and functions of any DAC/headphone amp/streamer near its size or price.
NAD's new M10 BluOS Enabled Integrated Amplifier ($2,749) is a very exciting product. And I don't just mean for NAD, but for the integrated amp market as a whole....
Schiit's step-up Hel gaming headphone amp and DAC delivers not only performance upgrades, but also some nice ergonomic touches that make it a wonderful desktop audio solution for headsets,...
As I write this, it's been about three weeks since my wife finally got approval to work from home during our current stay-at-home order. And it took all of...
The Naim NAIT 5si lacks all of the digital connectivity you would expect in a modern integrated amplifier, but it's a big winner in terms of value and personality.
Jerry calls the Anthem MDX-8 amp one of the most forward-thinking products he's seen and heard in ages.
The Episode EA-DYN-8D-100 is a Class D amp with eight 100-watt channels that can be configured for all sorts of use. Priced at $1,200, this amp allows you to...
Like it or not, we've entered a new era where most audio enthusiasts are now opting to stream their music rather than relying on physical media. To keep up...
I've said this before, I know, but I think it's worth reiterating: One of the ongoing conversations that we higher-ups here at Home Theater Review continue to have is...
Russound's MBX-AMP is a simple-to use one-room streaming solution that can also be employed to expand an existing Russound multi-room system into harder-to-reach zones.
After 15 years of devoted service, Parasound has retired its beloved Halo A 21 amplifier. Its replacement, the Halo A 21+, is priced a little higher at $2,995. But...
Denon's PMA-150H Integrated Network Amplifier with HEOS ($1,099) lends some credibility to an argument I've been making for a few years now: Stereo integrated amplifiers represent one of the...
As 2019 comes to a close, we at HomeTheaterReview.com look back at all the products we reviewed this year and pick the best of the bunch, from affordable favorites...