Cyrus 8 Power review

The 8 Power amp brings extra breadth and depth to the musical mix Tested at £850

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

With the Pre vs2 and the PSX-R power supply, this power amp's performance is magical.

Pros

  • +

    Thrillingly fast, detailed and expressive sound

Cons

  • -

    Low end might be a tad too lean for some

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When we tested this amp – with its partnering siblings, the Pre vs2 preamp and the PSX-R off-board power supply – what we weren't anticipating was the extra breadth and depth the 8 Power brought to the mix.

The 8 Power has a bottom end that enjoys the sort of solidity and authority that some recent Cyrus amplification has lacked.

The combination of rock-solid, taut, well-modulated low frequencies and dynamic fleet-footedness is thrilling. Add in a plausible soundstage, fanatical attention to transients and a beautifully neutral midrange, and you've an endlessly entertaining amp.

Sure, when you put all three components into a single, three-box combo, it looks a bit of an oddball set-up. But the Cyrus three-way has a long list of talents, and its short-comings are few (our biggest gripe is the length of time it has to be run before sounding its best).

In any case, the 8 Power's contribution is huge: it really is a fine power amplifier.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.


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