Stereo Amplifiers Reviews

JBL’s classy Synthesis SDR-35 AV receiver is a great starting point for a high-end home cinema system.

Updated Cambridge Audio opted for a ground-up rebuild for its CXA81 amplifier – and has created a thing of lasting beauty.

Updated Cambridge Audio’s midrange amplifier sounds superb and has a comprehensive feature list – but there's a hefty price rise too.

The Chord Ultima Pre 3/Ultima 6 pre/power combination is as insightful and even-handed as they come

PrimaLuna’s Evo 300 Hybrid aims to marry the stereotypical sweetness and fluidity of valves with the grunt of solid state. It succeeds, but is that enough?

The MA8950 is a heavyweight in every sense of the word, with a comprehensive features list and hugely accomplished sound to match.

Copland’s entry-level integrated amplifier is a well-equipped and sonically classy performer.

Rotel’s Michi X3 integrated is a tempting mix of excellent build quality, sensible features and muscular sound.

Goldmund’s revised Telos 590 Nextgen II proves that integrated amplifiers can cut it at the highest level.

The more affordable amp in Cyrus’s flagship XR range is one of the clearest amplifiers we’ve heard at this level, but is it a class leader?