GO FORTH AND AMPLIFY

If you want to assemble a great-sounding system of affordable hi-fi separates, finding the right amp is critical. Allow us to help you on your journey

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 £350 to £700 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

£349