Pros –
Solid build quality, Small footprint but feels planted on desk, Ultra-linear sound, Coherent presentation, Great soundstage width
Cons –
Small volume knob, No negative gain setting for IEMs, Could do with greater dynamics and soundstage depth
Verdict –
The A50s remains an easy recommendation for its well-rounded design, ultra clean and linear sound and very reasonable price.
Introduction –
Topping always stood out for the strong value to performance offered by their products. However, the same can be said for many sources these days. The pursuit of market dominance led to the production of their own in-house NFCA [Nested-Feedback Composite Amplifier] chipset that has topped the charts for SNR since. Indeed, that means besting THX’s cutting edge chips and some infinitesimally pricier models too. Topping took this one step further when they revealed that their NFCA technology would not only reside in the flagship A90, but their cheaper models too. The entry-level L30 blazed the trail, offering the same superlative objective performance with cut-down features and build to suit its lower price point. The A50s is Topping’s latest effort, implementing the same amp chip while introducing a substantially more premium build and design in addition to balanced output. Though it is not a true balanced amplifier, possessing only single-ended inputs, the A50s looks to be the versatile middle-child in the line-up that offers the strongest bang for buck.
The A50s retails for $199 USD. You can read more about the A50s and treat yourself to a unit on Apos Audio. For objective breakdown, please see amirm’s review catalogue on Audio Science Review.
Disclaimer –
I would like to thank John from Apos Audio very much for his quick communication and for providing me with the A50s for the purpose of review. All words are my own and there is no monetary incentive for a positive review. Despite receiving the amplifier free of cost, I will attempt to be as objective as possible in my evaluation.
Contents –
Specifications –
- 4.4mm Balanced Output
- 0dB and 6dB Step Gain Setting
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