Onkyo must be applauded for taking the plunge into affordable digital amps, but the A-5VL is beaten by the best analogue alternatives
Excellent amplifier up with the elite at this price level
Can perform miracles with less frenetic genres, but isn't built for anger
Superior product in some ways, but the PM5003 lacks the cohesion to trouble the class leaders
The build is as reliable as ever. The sound however falls way below the usually high standard we have come to expect from Denon
Has a welcome, grown-up sound that's effortlessly musical but it doesn't like to get down and dirty
Up there with the best, some imperfections, but when it comes to sound quality it's well worth the five-star rating
Last year's Award-winner still has what it takes, delivering an expansive, convivial sound and a solid spec
Still a great amp, but not quite as good as its younger brother, the £100 cheaper (and remote-less) RA-04
Leema's original Tucana integrated amplifier was a great amp. The new, subtly tweaked Mk II version makes a great design even better