As the power generator at the heart of any system of hi-fi separates, the amplifier plays a key role in determining the quality and character of that system’s overall sound. So when it comes to buying one, it’s important to make an informed choice.
The good news is that there are plenty of models to choose from. Some, of course, are better than others, and because we are concerned with the ‘some’ and not the ‘others’, we have curated a shortlist of star performers within a popular price bracket to help you find the amp that’s right for you.
Our focus here is on affordable integrated amplifiers – that is, ones ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1,50,000 and in which the preamplifier and main power amp (which are often housed separately in premium systems) are combined onto a single unit.
The seven models featured on the following pages are all What Hi-Fi? five-star products, so quality is assured. Your job is to settle on one that suits your source – or sources – and, if you have got that far, your stereo speakers. In part, that means deciding whether or not you need an onboard phono stage (not all of these have one), and selecting something that gives you the number and type of connections you need.
Features are important but so is design, especially if space is a consideration, so our selection includes half-width as well as full-width models – and even one that can stand upright if you want it to. So get set; it’s time to play the power-generation game.
Cambridge Audio AXA35
A musical budget amplifier with all-round appeal
₹51,000
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Esta historia es de la edición May 2024 de What Hi-Fi Sound and Vision India.
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The slim, not shady soundbar
Shaking up the category and its nomenclature, Sony is pulling no punches with the BRAVIA Theatre Bar 9.
New world charm
The Music System (Gen 2) doesn't mince words, does it? It does exactly what it says on the wrapper play music. Simple.
Singing the verse
One of the most hallowed Indian hi-fi brands, Sonodyne has been making speakers for virtually every kind of application for decades now.
Radio Ga Ga
FOR Build quality, retro design, natural sound, simple controls
Maximizing on Mini
FOR Bright panel, calibrated modes, great picture quality
Vertere Dark Sabre
Details matter in audio design.
INDOOR PLANTS IN FULL BOOM
These premium wireless speakers are designed for use in the home - where they will raise the roof
RAISING THE BAR
Elevate your home cinema sound with this trio of convenient soundbar packages
I SPENT 24 HOURS IMMERSED IN DOLBY ATMOS MUSIC - THESE ARE 8 KEY THINGS I LEARNED
What Hi-Fi? UK deputy editor Andy Madden gained some interesting insights from the world of immersive audio on a visit to a Dolby Atmos studio
TAKE TO THE FLOOR
From pumping dance music to grand orchestral heft, these pillars of strength will deliver in spades