Randy: the phrase "They're both better..." is one of the best comments I have ever read in a comparison of two great Hi-Fi designs like these, Really enjoyed this one. Thank you!
On the Emotiva side, if you don't need an integrated and just plan to use a pre + amp(s), you can always go with the PT-100 and save $100. I run a Ghent Audio amplifier on my mains because I knew that I wanted tons of headroom, but the PT-100 has been a great performer for me!
Absolute love you work my friend, funny , entertaining, and informative. I have the full Iota Stack NP3, SA3, and PA3. Arguably the NP3 has a better DAC than the SA3. All three of these units with the SA3 and PA3 bridged, provide more than enough power and quality for my listening taste. Matched up to the Bro3 the whole listening experience is exceptional on all levels.
we here feel audio shouldnt cost as much as a Beverly hills wifes plastic surgery bill. The augmentation. the lifts. the tucks. and then the new wardrobe to go with it. It shouldnt cost that much.
Super review and I like the connection overview. Keep 'em coming. I sure wish I could outfit my audio life with all Emotiva gear. I'm very grateful for what I have and I am so glad Randy reviews the cheap stuff.
I own the SA3 only, and initially noticed the “trebley” tone that Randy mentioned as well. This was with the source connected to the optical in, using the SA3’s internal DAC. However, I then ran the source through my Schiit Modi 3, then into the SA3’s RCA input, and found the trebley tone was no longer present. So it seems that the integrated DAC might be contributing to this tonal difference. Just wanted to throw this out there for anyone else who might not be thrilled if they’re getting a bit too much emphasis on the highs. Had the IotaVX for a couple years now, running through a pair of Klipsch RP-150m’s, and highly recommend it. Keep up the great work Randy! New subscriber here!
I have the IOTA Stack for several years now, and have used it with various speakers: my Klipsch RF7- III, Bucharest Audio S400, Focal Aria 906, and Klipsch PR 600M... totally satisfied!! You'll be hard pressed to find a better QUALITY STACK, IMO. I've been doing Audio for over 50 years, and if you check out the built quality of the IOTA Stack, it's quality EXCEEDS it's PRICE POINT! Also, it was not suppose to be a NAD product as some suggest. But, thats a different topic. Yes, if you want POWER, maybe u should buy the Emotiva. But I'll take QUALITY anyway over Power. When it comes to sound, that such a QUESTIONABLE area, in a review. What I hear, and what you hear is totally subjective, in many respects, so take SOUND COMMENTS REVIEWS at face value! Actually, I find it's the Recording(s) your listing to, which make a big difference and format. I have other amps Yamaha AS-2200, Parasound 2250-V2, Reisong Tube, etc., and the IOTA stack,,, differently can hold it's own.
I just switched from the Emotiva A300 to the Schiit Vidar and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. The Vidar is transparent and has slightly more finesse compared to the A300. Both amps were powering pairs of 1st and 2nd gen. Uni-Fi speakers. The Vidar has no issues powering the inefficient original UB5’s.
I don't know what's up with IOTAVX. In December, I ordered their 7 channel home theater receiver and amplifier. I wouldn't be upset about them only sending the amp, if they would reply to any of my various attempts to contact them. Look, it's been over a month. Update us if you're gonna take our money and not deliver. *(12.9.21 update) Aside from the communication issue, I am very pleased with my SA3, PA3 and AVXP1. I recently purchased a Peachtree amp500, that I thought would be an upgrade (500 rms per channel I figured it would have to be.) After lots of listening and switching (SA3 pre, PA3, amp500, SVS Ultra BS, JBL 590) I honestly wanted to hear a clear difference, but couldn't. I'm sure I will try more components as my system evolves, but I would definitely recommend IOTAVX.
My experience with ITOAVX SA3 /PA3..if concerned buying overseas Originally purchased the ITOAVX SA3 open box slightly less money.. Personally received a thank you email from the owner Ian.. Not a just your typical boiler plate.. When I received my product and opened the box instead of a SA3 It was the PA3 in the SA3 box.. All happen during the holidays.. Customer service was a challenge and so I sent a note with photos to Ian and he personally handled it..beyond expectation.. Ian sent me a note and said keep the PA3 as our sincere apology and to my surprise sent out a brand “new” SA3.. Love the product and will say I find it neutral and the soundstage is incredible.. I decided to just compare to the latest Yamaha RX-V6A AV receiver which is getting rave reviews and can say absolutely no comparison..tonal quality, sound stage to symbol hits decay off the charts to serious imaging in depth was incredible for the price in comparison. In my younger days before kids.. I have owned everything from Carey tube amps to McIntosh with today’s tech at the price is amazing what you can get for your money.. Between Cheap audioman, Ron & Sean can make the difference in making the right purchase.. Love the show..Randy you look like you ran out of gas on this one..up late..LOL!!
Emotiva has revamped their Bas-X line. Check with their web site for current similar products and availability. I have the PT-100 tuner/preamp and the A-300 power amp -- and I'm quite satisfied with the combination. But, both have been discontinued and are unavailable. Currently, my amp stack is driving Klipsch RP-600Ms and two subs. In the future, I intend to try out a set of Magnepan LRSs. Magnepan engineering told me that the Emotiva amps are "a good combination" with the hard-to-drive Maggies. To be honest, the Emotiva and Iota items are so similar that it would not surprise me if they are both made in the same Chinese factory. That said, I have had two occasions to call Emotiva, and they could not have been more helpful and gracious. In today's world, it's nice to have a real knowledgeable human provide telephone service and support. I would buy their products again, if I live long enough to wear out the ones I have.
@@cheapaudioman I think this means that you have an A2 in for review. I have been wondering if the A2 is a significant improvement over the A-300, or a rewarming/renaming of it. The A-300 was an older design. It appears that Emotiva has a new model replacing the PT-100 preamp/control. Sean, at Zero Fidelity, in a live stream, has accused Emotiva of being the "Ikea of audio." Do you agree?
I bought the IOTA stack a couple of months ago and love it. The treble calms down after a while. The only caveat is the auto power-down after 20 minutes of inactivity. They are supposed to come out with an update to correct it, but have not been very responsive lately.
@@kgobrien1 That's so curious. I don't know why it would be on mine but not on yours. I got mine maybe 16 months ago. Different firmware ? I assume you tried pushing in on the volume knob, long press then short press ... it does the same as the button on remote. hmmm, I'm stumped. That would be very annoying indeed.
Here's my take: had both amps hooked to Triangles BR03s. Bought Emotiva 1st and on those speakers the sound is more disjoint (don't know how to put it better): there's a clear separation between bass, mids and treble and the layers don't blend in as it was supposed to. Moreover the treble becomes too harsh for my ears. Returned Emotiva got the Iotavx. The bass mids and treble are well blend in and somehow the treble is now "rounded" and easy on my ears. Remember this was always with the BR03s. I come from vintage amps (sansui mainly ) and dunno why, but the Iota sound reminds alot Sansui warm sound, just with 50 years of evolution which basically leads to much more overall detail. Hope this helps someone facing the same dilemma
@@TheHammerofDissidence I didn't know that, but if so they totally nailed it! I knew that IOTAVX tried to launch their amp with nakamichi brand (the Japanese company utterly famous for their cassette players, among others).
I like most have watched hundreds of reviews on various hi-fi gear,, and find some reviews reveal slight inconsistencies,, or even differ from your own personal experience,, but that's to be expected I suppose, when you consider that the piece under review is actually the only piece that remains the same,, everything else is most likely going to be different,, the room, the cables, the speakers,, the individuals ability to hear and explain what they hear, and the actual time taken to allow for equipment break in,, even making claims to how something sounds without allowing it a sustained period of operation,, in my experience is fundamentally flawed.
Good to know! I own the ta100 and always wondered if I choose right between the two since I couldn’t try the Iotavx. Very happy with mine running Kef q100 and elac b6.2. Ps. The elacs sound way bigger. Thanks Randy, great review
I will shill the crap out of IOTAVX. Got my stack over a year ago and it's been great. I've had different speakers, different turntables, different phono stages (along with tube gear and tube rolling), and different dacs hooked up during this time. It's transparent enough that I could clearly hear each change and tweak. The amps just never get in the way of the music.
I had the Emotiva PT-100 & A300 preamp-amp combo. For $700 its a killer combo that other brands would probably sell for $2000 in stores. Other than the cheesy remote Emotiva is a #1 value.
More trebly than the Emotiva, crap they thing is very trebly then. Emotiva is already kinda trebly. Good thing the ub5 are very subdued. The pa3 cost $411 + $49 shipping If there's no tax included. That's pretty expensive for a 2 channel 45 watt amp. Thank you very much for the review. I'm happy to see what the iotavx is up against: Emotiva. The way other reviewers talk about iotavx, you'd think it's no competition and the iota is the greatest thing ever. This review is much more down to earth.
Randy, when you say the IOTAVX was more trebley, was that when used as a stack? Or was more trebley when you used the integrated amps without their power amps also? Great video, keep up the hard work.
Great review on "best bang for your buck" gear!!! Next time try taping a cheat-sheet on the back of each with the names. Who comes up with these names???
Very interesting, I did not know Iotavx at all. The Iota power amplifier implementation is very clever since you can still use the integrated amplifier watts for one of the channels. On the other hand,Emotiva has more power and a good quality and more versatile phono preamp. Overall the Emotiva combo is more versatile and gives you a very nice opportunity…if you have 3 way speakers with double connection you can build a bi amping system powering the hights with the integrated amplifier and the woofers with the power amp.
Thank you. I mostly have vintage amps but have been thinking about a brand new stack and these two are the ones I've been mulling over. Because of the power amp and the USB in I think the emotiva has won for me for now before hearing them (well before hearing the Iota, I've heard the emotiva)
Is the Iota using a switching (Class D) power supply? The voltage switch on the back would seem to indicate that it is. It also means it does not have APFC (active power factor control/correction) - which means it is likely feeding a fair bit of electrical / RFI noise back into the electric power lines. Same question about the Emotiva - Class A/B or Class D?
Would it be worth upgrading to either of these from the SONY STR 190?... or upgrade to something in $1000 + range where I'm more likely to hear a significant difference in sound quality? Great review!
7:15 - that is the smoothest, most dolly-esque tracking shot of all time. AND I FREAKING LOVE IT! I beg of you, and I mean this 100% Randy--do NOT get a gimble or glider. I'm being totally serious. DO your Extreme Close-ups like this, ALWAYS. Now and forever, baby. Seriously. I mean it!
Got another demo track, Phil Collins " in the air tonight " 3.40 into the drum solo great for speed, bass impact , just a suggestion. Enjoy your videos. Thanks
Other than the yamaha wxa 50.... Only the Iotavx sa3 is on Amir's (Audio science reviews ) recommended list of budget amplifiers... that says alot about the amp...!!!
Doubles power, but not at the same spec : Power Output (both channels driven): 150 watts RMS per channel; 20 Hz - 20 kHz; THD < 0.1%; into 8 Ohms. 300 watts RMS per channel; 1 kHz; THD < 1%; into 4 Ohms.
IOTAVX product might be of good quality, but their customer service leaves much to be desired. If you encounter an issue, wish to file a warranty claim, or need to return their product, you may find that they do not respond to your emails or calls. I strongly recommend considering products from companies known for good customer service, especially if you value responsive support in the event that things don't go as planned.
I tried a Ta2 from Emotiva. The bluetooth was horrible (it was so flat I thought it was faulty) and the overall tone of the amp was very dark and unappealing to me - but it did have a ton of power. In researching the IotaVX brand it appears they are designed and built by the Chinese company ToneWinner and that IotaVX is simply a drop-shipping company.
Good morning Randy. Great video! You should try your Emotiva TA-100 as a preamp with a Crown XLS1002 and the Airmotiv B1+ speakers and Sub. It sounds Excellent! The crown has a high pass filter. I'd be interested to know the difference in sound between the crown amp and the Emotiva A300.
If you have coaxial out of your computer I'd go that route. Some say it's better than optical but I've never been able to tell a difference. Whatever your motherboard supports I suppose.
Yes, ELACs take power. I used my Marantz 19 receiver (50wpc) tp power two pairs of ELAC B6.2s. You could tell they need more power. So I got a Parasound 2350 Class D with 600 x 2. Now they sing!
Stanny1 That sounds nice. I run two pair of andrew jones pioneer BS-22 speakers with a Crown XLS1002 class D, rated at 450wpc (max) into 3 ohms. These cheap speakers handle plenty of power and play loud.
@@mikeday62 for the bs-22? Isn’t that a bit of overkill? My son acquired mine and now I’m having second thoughts because of your comment. When he whines about it, I’m going to send him to your comment, Mike. 😂
@@gustercc Yes, that's funny but true! 😁 I also have the pioneer FS-52 tower speakers, with one pair of BS-22 stacked on top of them. Those together make serious thunder powered by the XLS1002. I just recently bought the second pair of BS-22. I wanted to see how two pair of those would sound without the towers. I haven't yet got that going, due to medical issues (bad back). The crown amp can handle a 2 ohm load, so eventually I will connect all three pairs of speakers at once. (6 ohm speakers) divided by (3 pair) = 2 ohms. At 2 ohms the crown is rated 550wpc (max). I'm working on getting a cheap (made in china) preamp powered by three 12AX7 tubes, about $240 on Ebay.
Emotiva is hands down the entry level gateway into serious audio gear country! I really love what those guys do. If you have 4ohm tower speakers and need a lot of wattage on the cheap my research has yet to uncover a better deal than the BasX300. Definitely check out some of the interviews & presentations by Emotivas front man here on YT. All good stuff!
@@splaff79 Got my A300 months back and did just the same as you! I used an amazon tube pre kit though, with NOS GE tubes. No different from the douk audio/nobsound offerings. My 1987 Altec 501's enter ear bleed mode @ the 11-12 O'clock mark as well ; )
I had the SSCS5s on the IOTA stack (bridged) while waiting for my Magnapans. Great / unbelievable Combo. Imaging..depth..soundstage…dynamics….you’ll get it all.
Love the channel. Both are tricky to get easily in Canada. The new Cambridge Audio Axa35 should be one in your short list. Very very good for around the same price as these. Cheers!
I've had no issues getting the IOTAVX products here into Canada, and I've ordered from them on 3 different occasions. They arrived at my door 6 days after placing the order each time. Also the price on their site is taxes and duties included. Also depending on the weight, it can be shipping included. When I tried to order the stack, they wanted to charge me shipping but when I ordered the amps separately then I got free shipping. The only difference in price I had to pay was the exchange rate. So to you fellow Canadians, the IOTAVX products are no problem to get here.
@@dicmccoy I just checked the site 399 plus 49 DHL delivery to Toronto for SA3, so no duty charge as per u said, did not understand u saying no shippin for separate order.
@@robertng138 why the hell are they charging you 49 for delivery now? I'm in Penticton, BC and for just the sa3 the shipping, duty, and taxes were all included, but as soon as I added the pa3 onto the order they wanted 60 for shipping. So I just ordered them separately to get free shipping. The last time I ordered from IOTA was about a year now.
I’m going with a Yamaha 9.2 AVR that has the ability to turn off the amp for the front L/R. Looking for a dedicated 2 channel amp to feed my front mains for both theater and stereo music listening. This Emotiva looks like what I want. (Klipsch RP600M on stands). Will the single AVR remote control the power to these speakers running through this amp in both 9.2 and 2 channel mode, or will I have to use the Emotiva remote and the AVR remote to control volume in either 9.2 or 2 channel mode?
Those power amps can also be a solid upgrade for people who already have a receiver with pre-outs. I have a Marantz NR1508 that I picked up on clearance when the 1509 came out. Has a huge feature set, but it just sounds sort of dull. Its imaging and clarity are both mediocre. Got an Emotiva A-150 power amp last year, and it significantly improved imaging and clarity. Wonder how the receiver would stack up against a purpose-built preamp like the PT-100 (even though that'd mean getting a new streamer).
Thanks Randy, nice viewing of a couple of well regarded amps. Can you hook these up using Gardner's cables? I think the Emotiva is a better looking combo, when they are that close it would be important to me.
Yes, you can use my cables on any gear with the proper support clamps. We don't want your gear pulled off of your shelf and damaging your flooring. Please order soon, they're going fast. 😂
@@welderfixer I was wondering where the wires from the street lights were going. I don't know if my d class amp can drive the wire let alone the speakers.
Heya, I know these might be out of the budget/cheap audiophile range for a review, but the Schitt Audio Vidar and Freya+ combo are pretty potent for under $1000.00 however, they are lacking some features like a Dac and Phono Stage but to your point in your video, MC cart owners are not going be using a built-in phono amp and many folks would get better performance from a separate Phone amp and Dac. FYI the Modius looks like a very interesting new Dac from Schitt as well and it is a U.S. Company. I guess I might seem like a Schitt Shill... I am not but own the combo driving some Denton 80s and it sounds good, not great. With different speakers, it sounds much better. I keep hoping the Denton's will break in...
hI cheapaudioman. You seem to be the first reviewer that listens to the same music genre's as I do, so I will ask your opioion, incase you feel like responding. I currently own Monitor Audio GS20's and paired them with an anthem 710. I a was under the impression I should scale up in hifi, but now I think I maybe mistaken (most of the music I listen to is badly mastered\compressed etc). I find most of it sounds bad through this combinsation, as it is too revealing. Any suggestions for an integrated amp and speakers that would forgive poor recordings\make everying heavier sounding? Despite their stupid pricing I am considering a pair of Tannoy Legacy Ardens, in order to get a 15" driver that will hopefully make everthing sound larger (but if there is something cheaper I would be all for it)
my one and only complaint with the A300 is how ridiculously loose the RCA inputs are. these inputs gradually loosen even more over time and it really doesn’t matter how malleable your interconnects are.
Yes, in the EU Emotiva is not really in its price class. What about the Outlaw? That sounds like the same league. I am looking for an Emotiva amp, and there is a slight chance that I will manage to buy one used, I am really a fan of their 5 and 7 channel amps, but it really is a rare find. Otherwise I have to just buy a stereo amp, which would be used for the front channel, a rotel or arcam, then do it step by step. But really, a Outlaw vs Emotiva comparison would be welcome.
Another Stellar and entertaining review! Off track a little bit but I actually clicked on your link for Amazon HD music after watching one of your other vids. Wanted to thank you for introducing this old trail horse on to a different trail and form of music . I’m using Amazon HD music to feed my first recently acquired streamer a BlueSound Node 2i . Wow did my modest setup ride to the occasion. I can not stop listening to music the sound quality is phenomenal. Don’t know if I’ll ever be able to play a cd again although I will Always have love for my vinyl as it’s a sound thats not replaceable with its depth. But again thanks for the recommendation/ link for Amazon HD music👍🏻👊🏻 Current modest setup is Nad c356bee , CD player Nad C568 , Furman Elite-20 power factori , TT Pro-ject debut carbon with a red cartridge.Speakers Klipsch 600m on B channel and Monitor Audio Bronze 500 6m’s on the A channels. I switch back and fourth for a different flavor of sound depending on the mood. Klipsch 12” sub that’s hooked up but rarely run it except sometimes with the Klipsch . To my 😂Longshoreman trained ears I do t think I could be any happier .
I see the emotiva is now discontinued without any replacement announced yet. Can you find out what the replacement will be or if they will really replace it?
I assume you're talking about the Emotiva preamp? They responded to that question on another youtube vid and their response was the new preamps will be coming this summer....no month given however.
Could you please review the Yamaha NS-6490 three way speaker? Would really like to know if I should be happy with them or move on to something newer...........
@@NuclearCowboyTube I got mine in December as well. I figure because it's made in the USA then NAFTA/USMCA kicked in. My BasX400Z had ~70 bucks CAD in tax plus 15 in broker fees on a 399.00 USD purchase. I'm sure they used the same broker. What was your import duties?
Question on the Iotavx where you show it being bridged between the units. How do you get stereo? You put both amps in mono mode. How do you choose which channel each one plays?
The SA3 is the right channel and the pa3 is the left. It’s the internal switching due to the switch to bridge mode on the back. I’m not sure what is exactly going on inside but that’s how it works from a practical standpoint
Randy, would you know if I could bridge the IOTA SA3 to the Emotiva a 300 amp? When bridging amps in the IOTA manner that you and Sean describe, you cross the stream on a single pair of speakers. Can you do the same with a 2nd pair of speakers? " Crossing the Streams" in the same manner ? Thx for your advice. Be well . May the Force Be With You.......
Another great review Randy. A few things to add. The IOTA VX was suppose to be the new NAD products. Also, while I own the Emotiva stack (PT-100 UPA 2), and love it. The blue display is very difficult to read from more than 8 feed away. The menu system has made me loose my cool several times and the remote is.... light. That said I love Emotiva so much as a company, I forgive these shortcomings in my own setup. Would love to see you test some products from Schiit.
I have a Schiit Magnius in house to review. Emotiva has a few eccentricities but, to your point, the overall all value makes those a "non issue" for me.
The IOTAVX comes to $547when you do the currency conversion; plus $47 shipping via DHL, total= $595. The Emotiva is $400 with free shipping in the US. The IOTAVX is 50% more, but is it %50 better?
Yeah you’re right, and I messed up, let me see if I can correct that, at (about) $200 more than the Emotiva, is the Iota 150% better? I think I have it right this time
@@claypeterson8299 I can't answer that as I don't own the Emotiva. I do own the IOTAVX sa3 and 2 pa3's. I found the extra sparkle on the top end complimented the Elac UB5's. I recently upgraded to the KEF Q950's and the IOTAVX has oodles of power. I can go to rock concert volumes with no distortion. I also find the IOTAVX to be better looking in my opinion. I've had the IOTAVX for over 2 years with zero issues. I have however compared the IOTAVX stack to my son's Denon AVR-S650H. It wasn't even a close comparison. The upper mids/highs on the Denon sounded harsh. I also found the Denon didn't soundstage and image very well. The center image was low. Like it was coming down from the TV stand. I used his Pioneer SP-FS52's. When I hooked up the IOTAVX stack, it brought those Pioneers up to the Elac UB5's level. I found the IOTAVX had more detail in everything, treble/mids/bass yet being smoother as well. It's like going from a 720p TV to 4k. The amount of weight behind the bass was about the same on both amps. I am definitely happy with my purchase. Either way you choose, I am sure you will be happy. I may consider the Emotiva for my son in the near future.
Excellent! Much thanks to both of you for the input; I’ve seen the IOTAVX lurking in the background and was specifically waiting for this comparison before I made a purchase. I’ve already got a pair of Klipsch RP600m’s on the way and I think the Emotiva might be a better pairing for those particular speakers; I don’t think they’ll need any extra help on the top end and might come off as a bit too bright with the IOTA. But again thank you both I appreciate you taking the time!
Ive been looking at the SA3 and PA3 stack but I'm a bit confused on one feature aspect: can the stack be used as dual monoblocks with an AVR in home theatre bypass? I know you could do this with one or two PA3s, but for the sake of flexibility, can the SA3 be purely a power amp?
For what it's worth I'm running Emotiva PT-100 and A-300 with a pair of Polk T50s and two Polk Audio PSW10s. I love the combo and the sound I get for the price. The biggest trick I found with the T50s is to get them off the floor. I built 9" Boxes filled with great stuff foam to deaden the resonance and run isolators between the box and the speakers. Made a huge difference in sound.
Just got the IOTA SA3. Great sound out of my Elac Debut Reference Bookshelf Speakers. I am ordering the PA3 (probably not fully needed, but what the heck). BUT unfortunately, after hooking up speakers and disconnecting and reconnecting a different speaker (just to test it out), the speaker out jacks on the SA3 have become loose. I am unable to tighten them - they are fully screwed into the jack. 3 of the 4 are jingling loose. I reconnected the Elacs with Banana plugs (I emailed IOTA to see if they would accept those connections.....they do but it is ot in their manual). I just emailed them to see what I am supposed to do with these loose speaker jacks? Not very encouraging as to the quality.... that was disappointing. If I knew what I was doing, probably could take off the cover to the AMP, and check the loose connections against the base where they are screwed in , I presume. I'll wait tom hear from them and post answers here. THX for your video, Randy. Get some Rest, man.....
Hi! I also have the Elac DBRs with the IotaVX stack (first bought the SA3 and then went to buy the PA3). The sound changes a bit indeed, as Sean at Zero Fidelity mentioned. It sounds punchier and more defined bass, a bit more sense of scale and a bit more emphasis on the treble, so in general I think it improves the experience. The only downside is that for me, the treble takes a bit of a "hard" sound, not as mellow as the SA3 alone. I am curious to know what your experience is!
@@jdominc3387 JD, shouting out back to you. I have not bought the PA3 Yet !!! I am shopping to see if a refurbished one becomes available. I am being Teased with the Emotiva A-300 Amp , connecting it to the the IOTAVX SA3, to hear those results. After contacting IOTA (remember ..... UK under a new COVID mutation virus requiring more shutdowns in their society), They told me to take off the cover and see if I could tighten the speaker terminals at the back of the unit. I was able to do that . They are fastened with gold plated nuts where I was able to squeeze in a small open ended wrench to tighten the nuts. The fact that the terminals did become loose, left a Little of a Sour Taste in my mouth about quality.... The IOTA SA3 , connected to my Elac Debut 6.2s, plays very well. Great clarity, and yes, Randy is right, a little bright on the treble compared to my existing Denon DRA-800H Receiver. My challenge with what I want to setup in my finished basement Sound Studio - created in 2020 COVID hibernation - is that I paralleled 2 pairs of speakers on the B connection of the Denon. In addition to the Elac DEbut 6.2s and a pair of the Elac Debut Reference 6.2s [different speakers], I had a pair of previously purchased Fluance Signature Series Hifi Bookshelf speakers. I wanted to engage them into my sound setup. I use the "studio" for My Music listening and to play my rekindled interest in Drums. I'm 69 YO, retired due to many spinal disabilities in latter part of 2020, and after a 51 year Hiatus, I'm back to playing drums with limitations. So I paralleled either of the Elacs with the Fluances on the B output, but also, had a a pair of speakers connected to the A speaker output ,unbenounced to me , after cranking it up to say about 60-65 volume level on the Denon Receiver, the power light flashed red and the Receiver shut down..... Too much load and overheating. Posters all over the Audio platforms said : You can't do that.....You will Fry your Amp/Receiver, it's not designed to run 6 speakers . Mind you all the speakers are 8 ohm rated. So I now have the Elac Debut 6.2s connected to the IOTA SA3, playing as the Zone 2 Amp off the Denon, and paralleled the Elac Reference and the Fluances. I'm testing to see if the Denon could handle this setup. It sound very very Good. I have to balance the IOTA volume and settings with the Denon, but it does sound very sweet. The paralleled speakers are the closest to me and the drumset. I'll post more comments as the story evolves a little. Be safe and Well in this Freakin Madness
@@Chiroman527 Wow, that's quite an experiment that you have going on there! I am a much more basic user :-D I did try running both the Elacs DRB62 and the Triangle BR03 fom the Yamaha AS-501, as it had option for A+B speakers. It drove them without breaking a sweat, but I could not volume match and so the Triangle, being more sensitive, stood out. Anyway, the sound of them together was better that each on their own - at least, in terms of sounding big, more like I was in a concert! Happy listenings to you!
@@jdominc3387 just updating my comments. I did get a emotiva A300 amp. Connected to the IOTAVXSA3 . Yes, the amp adds a bit more punch, not a "dramatic" enhancement driving Elac Debut Reference speakers or a set of Elac Debut 6.2s and a pair of Fluance Signature Series Surround HiFi Bookshelf speakers . But similar to your comments, due to the various speaker's sensitivity, and using 2 differentReceiver / Amps (Denon DRA 800H Receiver and the IOTA SA3 with the Emotiva A300 amp), there are volume differences. I may end up "retiring the Denon DRA 800H Receiver or selling it (it's only 7 months old purchased in July 2020), a d using the SA3 abd A300 Stack to hook up all 3 pairs of speakers. Happy Listening ....
Get this man some more coffee!
For real
"coffee"
Randy: the phrase "They're both better..." is one of the best comments I have ever read in a comparison of two great Hi-Fi designs like these, Really enjoyed this one.
Thank you!
On the Emotiva side, if you don't need an integrated and just plan to use a pre + amp(s), you can always go with the PT-100 and save $100. I run a Ghent Audio amplifier on my mains because I knew that I wanted tons of headroom, but the PT-100 has been a great performer for me!
Very true.
Absolute love you work my friend, funny , entertaining, and informative. I have the full Iota Stack NP3, SA3, and PA3. Arguably the NP3 has a better DAC than the SA3. All three of these units with the SA3 and PA3 bridged, provide more than enough power and quality for my listening taste. Matched up to the Bro3 the whole listening experience is exceptional on all levels.
we here feel audio shouldnt cost as much as a Beverly hills wifes plastic surgery bill. The augmentation. the lifts. the tucks. and then the new wardrobe to go with it. It shouldnt cost that much.
Let’s keep this amazing content going 🔥 you definitely have a loyal subscriber here 💯💯👌🏼
Great comparison of two capable rigs that would make 90% of most people pleased as punch . Awesome vid Randy.👍✌️
Super review and I like the connection overview. Keep 'em coming. I sure wish I could outfit my audio life with all Emotiva gear. I'm very grateful for what I have and I am so glad Randy reviews the cheap stuff.
I own the SA3 only, and initially noticed the “trebley” tone that Randy mentioned as well. This was with the source connected to the optical in, using the SA3’s internal DAC. However, I then ran the source through my Schiit Modi 3, then into the SA3’s RCA input, and found the trebley tone was no longer present. So it seems that the integrated DAC might be contributing to this tonal difference. Just wanted to throw this out there for anyone else who might not be thrilled if they’re getting a bit too much emphasis on the highs. Had the IotaVX for a couple years now, running through a pair of Klipsch RP-150m’s, and highly recommend it. Keep up the great work Randy! New subscriber here!
I have the IOTA Stack for several years now, and have used it with various speakers: my Klipsch RF7- III, Bucharest Audio S400, Focal Aria 906, and Klipsch PR 600M... totally satisfied!! You'll be hard pressed to find a better QUALITY STACK, IMO. I've been doing Audio for over 50 years, and if you check out the built quality of the IOTA Stack, it's quality EXCEEDS it's PRICE POINT! Also, it was not suppose to be a NAD product as some suggest. But, thats a different topic. Yes, if you want POWER, maybe u should buy the Emotiva. But I'll take QUALITY anyway over Power. When it comes to sound, that such a QUESTIONABLE area, in a review. What I hear, and what you hear is totally subjective, in many respects, so take SOUND COMMENTS REVIEWS at face value! Actually, I find it's the Recording(s) your listing to, which make a big difference and format. I have other amps Yamaha AS-2200, Parasound 2250-V2, Reisong Tube, etc., and the IOTA stack,,, differently can hold it's own.
i just found the iota stack with blutooth new for 650 cant wait until it comes
I am about to buy a pair of focal 906 tomorrow. What amp would you recommend I pair it with"? I already have a Dac so I would just need an amp
I just switched from the Emotiva A300 to the Schiit Vidar and I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. The Vidar is transparent and has slightly more finesse compared to the A300.
Both amps were powering pairs of 1st and 2nd gen. Uni-Fi speakers. The Vidar has no issues powering the inefficient original UB5’s.
I don't know what's up with IOTAVX. In December, I ordered their 7 channel home theater receiver and amplifier. I wouldn't be upset about them only sending the amp, if they would reply to any of my various attempts to contact them. Look, it's been over a month. Update us if you're gonna take our money and not deliver. *(12.9.21 update) Aside from the communication issue, I am very pleased with my SA3, PA3 and AVXP1. I recently purchased a Peachtree amp500, that I thought would be an upgrade (500 rms per channel I figured it would have to be.) After lots of listening and switching (SA3 pre, PA3, amp500, SVS Ultra BS, JBL 590) I honestly wanted to hear a clear difference, but couldn't. I'm sure I will try more components as my system evolves, but I would definitely recommend IOTAVX.
My experience with ITOAVX SA3 /PA3..if concerned buying overseas
Originally purchased the ITOAVX SA3 open box slightly less money..
Personally received a thank you email from the owner Ian..
Not a just your typical boiler plate..
When I received my product and opened the box instead of a SA3 It was the PA3 in the SA3 box..
All happen during the holidays..
Customer service was a challenge and so I sent a note with photos to Ian and he personally handled it..beyond expectation..
Ian sent me a note and said keep the PA3 as our sincere apology and to my surprise sent out a brand “new” SA3..
Love the product and will say I find it neutral and the soundstage is incredible..
I decided to just compare to the latest Yamaha RX-V6A AV receiver which is getting rave reviews and can say absolutely no comparison..tonal quality, sound stage to symbol hits decay off the charts to serious imaging in depth was incredible for the price in comparison.
In my younger days before kids.. I have owned everything from Carey tube amps to McIntosh with today’s tech at the price is amazing what you can get for your money..
Between Cheap audioman, Ron
& Sean can make the difference in making the right purchase..
Love the show..Randy you look like you ran out of gas on this one..up late..LOL!!
Yeah. I was a bit tired last night.
Emotiva has revamped their Bas-X line. Check with their web site for current similar products and availability.
I have the PT-100 tuner/preamp and the A-300 power amp -- and I'm quite satisfied with the combination. But, both have been discontinued and are unavailable. Currently, my amp stack is driving Klipsch RP-600Ms and two subs. In the future, I intend to try out a set of Magnepan LRSs. Magnepan engineering told me that the Emotiva amps are "a good combination" with the hard-to-drive Maggies.
To be honest, the Emotiva and Iota items are so similar that it would not surprise me if they are both made in the same Chinese factory. That said, I have had two occasions to call Emotiva, and they could not have been more helpful and gracious. In today's world, it's nice to have a real knowledgeable human provide telephone service and support.
I would buy their products again, if I live long enough to wear out the ones I have.
I’ve got then we A2 in and I’m in getting ready to put out the review. They have such great stuff
@@cheapaudioman I think this means that you have an A2 in for review. I have been wondering if the A2 is a significant improvement over the A-300, or a rewarming/renaming of it. The A-300 was an older design. It appears that Emotiva has a new model replacing the PT-100 preamp/control.
Sean, at Zero Fidelity, in a live stream, has accused Emotiva of being the "Ikea of audio."
Do you agree?
I bought the IOTA stack a couple of months ago and love it. The treble calms down after a while. The only caveat is the auto power-down after 20 minutes of inactivity. They are supposed to come out with an update to correct it, but have not been very responsive lately.
I got mine in early November(2020) and it came with the ability to turn auto shutdown off or keep it on. Should hit them up.
Hit the 'Audio" button on the remote 4 times. Turn APD to off.
@@zetapal I appreciate the reply. There are only three options when I hit the Audio button on the remote; bass, treble and balance. No ADP. Thanks.
@@kgobrien1 That's so curious. I don't know why it would be on mine but not on yours. I got mine maybe 16 months ago. Different firmware ? I assume you tried pushing in on the volume knob, long press then short press ... it does the same as the button on remote. hmmm, I'm stumped. That would be very annoying indeed.
Here's my take: had both amps hooked to Triangles BR03s. Bought Emotiva 1st and on those speakers the sound is more disjoint (don't know how to put it better): there's a clear separation between bass, mids and treble and the layers don't blend in as it was supposed to. Moreover the treble becomes too harsh for my ears. Returned Emotiva got the Iotavx. The bass mids and treble are well blend in and somehow the treble is now "rounded" and easy on my ears. Remember this was always with the BR03s.
I come from vintage amps (sansui mainly ) and dunno why, but the Iota sound reminds alot Sansui warm sound, just with 50 years of evolution which basically leads to much more overall detail. Hope this helps someone facing the same dilemma
The IOTAVX guys were specifically trying to recreate that vintage Sansui sound iirc.
@@TheHammerofDissidence I didn't know that, but if so they totally nailed it! I knew that IOTAVX tried to launch their amp with nakamichi brand (the Japanese company utterly famous for their cassette players, among others).
@@VNW916 yup. My thoughts mirrored yours. It has a very vintage sound but all cleaned up and more detailed.
I like most have watched hundreds of reviews on various hi-fi gear,,
and find some reviews reveal slight inconsistencies,, or even differ from your own personal experience,, but that's to be expected I suppose, when you consider that the piece under review is actually the only piece that remains the same,, everything else is most likely going to be different,, the room, the cables, the speakers,, the individuals ability to hear and explain what they hear, and the actual time taken to allow for equipment break in,, even making claims to how something sounds without allowing it a sustained period of operation,, in my experience is fundamentally flawed.
My experience mimics yours. I’m mostly a vinyl guy and believe you can’t beat the IOTA stack for the money. Great with the Maggie LRS .
I just ordered the TA-100 thanks to your review and a few others. Keep up the good work!
I have a TA-100 thats been around my house just 3 years. I had it paired with an A-300 for a while but now just on its own.
Good to know! I own the ta100 and always wondered if I choose right between the two since I couldn’t try the Iotavx.
Very happy with mine running Kef q100 and elac b6.2.
Ps. The elacs sound way bigger. Thanks Randy, great review
I will shill the crap out of IOTAVX. Got my stack over a year ago and it's been great. I've had different speakers, different turntables, different phono stages (along with tube gear and tube rolling), and different dacs hooked up during this time. It's transparent enough that I could clearly hear each change and tweak. The amps just never get in the way of the music.
It’s really good. I love them both.
I've had the Iotavx for about 2 years and happy with it. Will be upgrading with the PA soon.
How is the iotavx sa3 ?
I had the Emotiva PT-100 & A300 preamp-amp combo. For $700 its a killer combo that other brands would probably sell for $2000 in stores. Other than the cheesy remote Emotiva is a #1 value.
Emotiva is well engineered, well built, great price, great warranty, great support, great resale value.
It’s hard to beat.
More trebly than the Emotiva, crap they thing is very trebly then. Emotiva is already kinda trebly. Good thing the ub5 are very subdued.
The pa3 cost $411 + $49 shipping If there's no tax included. That's pretty expensive for a 2 channel 45 watt amp.
Thank you very much for the review. I'm happy to see what the iotavx is up against: Emotiva. The way other reviewers talk about iotavx, you'd think it's no competition and the iota is the greatest thing ever. This review is much more down to earth.
Oh man, I've been waiting for this 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Randy, when you say the IOTAVX was more trebley, was that when used as a stack? Or was more trebley when you used the integrated amps without their power amps also? Great video, keep up the hard work.
I have a Ta100. It's great! Better than I expected.
I have the PT100 with the A 300 emotiva’s. Totally satisfied.
Don’t listen to the haters, you just have a dry humour. Keep the dad jokes coming.
Great review on "best bang for your buck" gear!!! Next time try taping a cheat-sheet on the back of each with the names. Who comes up with these names???
That emotiva stuff is at the top of my list if my vintage Adcom seperates ever decide to die.
Same for my vintage ACCURUS! Same vintage, I suspect.
Very interesting, I did not know Iotavx at all. The Iota power amplifier implementation is very clever since you can still use the integrated amplifier watts for one of the channels. On the other hand,Emotiva has more power and a good quality and more versatile phono preamp. Overall the Emotiva combo is more versatile and gives you a very nice opportunity…if you have 3 way speakers with double connection you can build a bi amping system powering the hights with the integrated amplifier and the woofers with the power amp.
You always do a great job , best new audio channel no question you rock, you need to review the Reisong EL34 amp.
I’m with you on the model numbers/names! Haha
I love my Emotiva PT-100 & A-300 combo.
Another excellent review, my friend!
@cheapaudioman, your dexterity is unparalleled. Keep em coming brother!
How does the Ta-100 compare with NAD C316BEE v2?
Thank you. I mostly have vintage amps but have been thinking about a brand new stack and these two are the ones I've been mulling over. Because of the power amp and the USB in I think the emotiva has won for me for now before hearing them (well before hearing the Iota, I've heard the emotiva)
I come from vintage gear too (sansui) loved the iotavx sound, didn't like the Emotiva so much.
The iota is life changing. Unlike the emo the iota will give you the fizz.
Was having not the best morning then I saw the Saturday Morning Shootout and I was like okay I can do this!
That makes me so happy. Sincerely I’m glad I could help bring some positivity.
Is the Iota using a switching (Class D) power supply? The voltage switch on the back would seem to indicate that it is. It also means it does not have APFC (active power factor control/correction) - which means it is likely feeding a fair bit of electrical / RFI noise back into the electric power lines.
Same question about the Emotiva - Class A/B or Class D?
Both IOTA and Emotiva are class A/B
@@juanmanuelvazquez6834 Okay, that is good to know. The power supply though can still be a switching supply, though?
Would it be worth upgrading to either of these from the SONY STR 190?... or upgrade to something in $1000 + range where I'm more likely to hear a significant difference in sound quality? Great review!
I have the STR 190 & the IOTA….the Sony is great for the money but does’t come close to the IOTA.
“This one is good. This one is not as good. They both work.” @cheapaudioman 😁
Just came across your channel... your like the Bill Murray of audio reviews lol. Just subscribed.
7:15 - that is the smoothest, most dolly-esque tracking shot of all time. AND I FREAKING LOVE IT!
I beg of you, and I mean this 100% Randy--do NOT get a gimble or glider. I'm being totally serious. DO your Extreme Close-ups like this, ALWAYS. Now and forever, baby. Seriously.
I mean it!
Took like 42 takes to get it that good.
@@cheapaudioman
Wow, just grinding ... getting it done, doing the work.
Speaking for everyone, ... your patience is appreciated.
@@cheapaudioman should probably do a few more next time. Fincher it up.
Hi Randy, please review NAD C316BEE when you get a chance.
Thanks
Would love to
Got another demo track, Phil Collins " in the air tonight " 3.40 into the drum solo great for speed, bass impact , just a suggestion. Enjoy your videos. Thanks
Yeah but then you're stuck listening to Phil Collins.
I like the cover by Nonpoint.
Other than the yamaha wxa 50.... Only the Iotavx sa3 is on Amir's (Audio science reviews ) recommended list of budget amplifiers... that says alot about the amp...!!!
Doubles power, but not at the same spec :
Power Output (both channels driven):
150 watts RMS per channel; 20 Hz - 20 kHz; THD < 0.1%; into 8 Ohms.
300 watts RMS per channel; 1 kHz; THD < 1%; into 4 Ohms.
good point
true. But it still drives power hungry 4ohm speakers with ease and clarity
@@splaff79 Would be interesting to know if there is actually an amp rated for doubling power into the same specs?
IOTAVX product might be of good quality, but their customer service leaves much to be desired. If you encounter an issue, wish to file a warranty claim, or need to return their product, you may find that they do not respond to your emails or calls. I strongly recommend considering products from companies known for good customer service, especially if you value responsive support in the event that things don't go as planned.
Emotiva wins for me. Great shootout!
Yeah. Me too.
I tried a Ta2 from Emotiva. The bluetooth was horrible (it was so flat I thought it was faulty) and the overall tone of the amp was very dark and unappealing to me - but it did have a ton of power. In researching the IotaVX brand it appears they are designed and built by the Chinese company ToneWinner and that IotaVX is simply a drop-shipping company.
Great Shootout.!!! Which are the best for the X-LS Encore?
Wow Randy great video yet again! Was that video editing I saw?! Holy cow Ron Randy is coming for you brother!!
Ha. Editing CAM style
I am out of coffee because of you.
Good morning Randy. Great video! You should try your Emotiva TA-100 as a preamp with a Crown XLS1002 and the Airmotiv B1+ speakers and Sub. It sounds Excellent! The crown has a high pass filter. I'd be interested to know the difference in sound between the crown amp and the Emotiva A300.
Dude, thanks for the shootout, loved you in Braveheart !
Love your review. What's the best way to connect a computer to the IOTAVX via coaxial or optical since it doesn't have USB?
If you have coaxial out of your computer I'd go that route. Some say it's better than optical but I've never been able to tell a difference. Whatever your motherboard supports I suppose.
Emotiva pre with the monolith 2x200 is the best budget combo at this point in time.
Is the Emotiva TA-100 an integrated amp or a receiver. I believe it has a built in tuner. I like it either way, just wondering.
it's technically a receiver yes
Yes, ELACs take power. I used my Marantz 19 receiver (50wpc) tp power two pairs of ELAC B6.2s. You could tell they need more power. So I got a Parasound 2350 Class D with 600 x 2. Now they sing!
Stanny1 That sounds nice. I run two pair of andrew jones pioneer BS-22 speakers with a Crown XLS1002 class D, rated at 450wpc (max) into 3 ohms. These cheap speakers handle plenty of power and play loud.
@@mikeday62 for the bs-22? Isn’t that a bit of overkill? My son acquired mine and now I’m having second thoughts because of your comment. When he whines about it, I’m going to send him to your comment, Mike. 😂
@@gustercc Yes, that's funny but true! 😁 I also have the pioneer FS-52 tower speakers, with one pair of BS-22 stacked on top of them. Those together make serious thunder powered by the XLS1002. I just recently bought the second pair of BS-22. I wanted to see how two pair of those would sound without the towers. I haven't yet got that going, due to medical issues (bad back). The crown amp can handle a 2 ohm load, so eventually I will connect all three pairs of speakers at once. (6 ohm speakers) divided by (3 pair) = 2 ohms. At 2 ohms the crown is rated 550wpc (max). I'm working on getting a cheap (made in china) preamp powered by three 12AX7 tubes, about $240 on Ebay.
@@mikeday62 I would love to know how it turns out!
Emotiva is hands down the entry level gateway into serious audio gear country! I really love what those guys do. If you have 4ohm tower speakers and need a lot of wattage on the cheap my research has yet to uncover a better deal than the BasX300. Definitely check out some of the interviews & presentations by Emotivas front man here on YT. All good stuff!
I’ve got the T Zeros here and I’m getting ready to give them some dedicated time
@@cheapaudioman you'll like it. I have the A300 with a Chinese Tube preamp drving the T1+ towers and it shakes the house at 11 o'clock on the dial.
@@splaff79 What preamplifier is that?
@@raymoore8435 Xiang Sheng 728a
@@splaff79 Got my A300 months back and did just the same as you! I used an amazon tube pre kit though, with NOS GE tubes. No different from the douk audio/nobsound offerings. My 1987 Altec 501's enter ear bleed mode @ the 11-12 O'clock mark as well ; )
great channel, question would the Sony SSCs5 be good enough to use as speakers for either one of those systems?
I had the SSCS5s on the IOTA stack (bridged) while waiting for my Magnapans. Great / unbelievable
Combo. Imaging..depth..soundstage…dynamics….you’ll get it all.
Love the channel. Both are tricky to get easily in Canada. The new Cambridge Audio Axa35 should be one in your short list. Very very good for around the same price as these. Cheers!
I've had no issues getting the IOTAVX products here into Canada, and I've ordered from them on 3 different occasions. They arrived at my door 6 days after placing the order each time. Also the price on their site is taxes and duties included. Also depending on the weight, it can be shipping included. When I tried to order the stack, they wanted to charge me shipping but when I ordered the amps separately then I got free shipping. The only difference in price I had to pay was the exchange rate.
So to you fellow Canadians, the IOTAVX products are no problem to get here.
@@dicmccoy I just checked the site 399 plus 49 DHL delivery to Toronto for SA3, so no duty charge as per u said, did not understand u saying no shippin for separate order.
@@robertng138 why the hell are they charging you 49 for delivery now? I'm in Penticton, BC and for just the sa3 the shipping, duty, and taxes were all included, but as soon as I added the pa3 onto the order they wanted 60 for shipping. So I just ordered them separately to get free shipping. The last time I ordered from IOTA was about a year now.
I’m going with a Yamaha 9.2 AVR that has the ability to turn off the amp for the front L/R. Looking for a dedicated 2 channel amp to feed my front mains for both theater and stereo music listening. This Emotiva looks like what I want. (Klipsch RP600M on stands). Will the single AVR remote control the power to these speakers running through this amp in both 9.2 and 2 channel mode, or will I have to use the Emotiva remote and the AVR remote to control volume in either 9.2 or 2 channel mode?
I've had my Sansui since 1975 .
Has it needed servicing, recapping, etc.?
Does any one have any comparisons between these and the Outlaw Audio 2160?
Batteries under the couch! Yes! Found many there.
Those power amps can also be a solid upgrade for people who already have a receiver with pre-outs. I have a Marantz NR1508 that I picked up on clearance when the 1509 came out. Has a huge feature set, but it just sounds sort of dull. Its imaging and clarity are both mediocre. Got an Emotiva A-150 power amp last year, and it significantly improved imaging and clarity.
Wonder how the receiver would stack up against a purpose-built preamp like the PT-100 (even though that'd mean getting a new streamer).
Agree.
Thanks Randy, nice viewing of a couple of well regarded amps. Can you hook these up using Gardner's cables? I think the Emotiva is a better looking combo, when they are that close it would be important to me.
Yes, you can use my cables on any gear with the proper support clamps. We don't want your gear pulled off of your shelf and damaging your flooring. Please order soon, they're going fast. 😂
@@welderfixer I was wondering where the wires from the street lights were going. I don't know if my d class amp can drive the wire let alone the speakers.
@@odwatchguy your class D amp would enjoy my cables. Ya know, cables at a pound per foot isn't just for welding any more. Hahaha
Heya, I know these might be out of the budget/cheap audiophile range for a review, but the Schitt Audio Vidar and Freya+ combo are pretty potent for under $1000.00 however, they are lacking some features like a Dac and Phono Stage but to your point in your video, MC cart owners are not going be using a built-in phono amp and many folks would get better performance from a separate Phone amp and Dac. FYI the Modius looks like a very interesting new Dac from Schitt as well and it is a U.S. Company. I guess I might seem like a Schitt Shill... I am not but own the combo driving some Denton 80s and it sounds good, not great. With different speakers, it sounds much better. I keep hoping the Denton's will break in...
love this amp format. Hope for more amp reviews and shootouts :)
On the iota can you keep adding pa3,s to keep adding power and how would that work with the mono/ bridged idea iota used which I like.
Yeah baby, Saturday shootout!
Edit: The D role is amazing, forgot to mention that.
hI cheapaudioman. You seem to be the first reviewer that listens to the same music genre's as I do, so I will ask your opioion, incase you feel like responding. I currently own Monitor Audio GS20's and paired them with an anthem 710. I a was under the impression I should scale up in hifi, but now I think I maybe mistaken (most of the music I listen to is badly mastered\compressed etc). I find most of it sounds bad through this combinsation, as it is too revealing. Any suggestions for an integrated amp and speakers that would forgive poor recordings\make everying heavier sounding? Despite their stupid pricing I am considering a pair of Tannoy Legacy Ardens, in order to get a 15" driver that will hopefully make everthing sound larger (but if there is something cheaper I would be all for it)
Just to add; I do mean larger soundstage\heavier upper midbass etc, not just more bass
LoL!!! CR2032 ARE common batteries. I do love your videos.
my one and only complaint with the A300 is how ridiculously loose the RCA inputs are. these inputs gradually loosen even more over time and it really doesn’t matter how malleable your interconnects are.
Been looking forward to another amp review, and this was a double❕
Liked the D-roll and the long, clear, close-ups of the rear panels.
Nice.
@cheapaudioman do you feel the Iota or Emotiva is a better match for CSS Criton?
Yes, in the EU Emotiva is not really in its price class. What about the Outlaw? That sounds like the same league. I am looking for an Emotiva amp, and there is a slight chance that I will manage to buy one used, I am really a fan of their 5 and 7 channel amps, but it really is a rare find. Otherwise I have to just buy a stereo amp, which would be used for the front channel, a rotel or arcam, then do it step by step.
But really, a Outlaw vs Emotiva comparison would be welcome.
Another Stellar and entertaining review!
Off track a little bit but I actually clicked on your link for Amazon HD music after watching one of your other vids. Wanted to thank you for introducing this old trail horse on to a different trail and form of music . I’m using Amazon HD music to feed my first recently acquired streamer a BlueSound Node 2i . Wow did my modest setup ride to the occasion. I can not stop listening to music the sound quality is phenomenal. Don’t know if I’ll ever be able to play a cd again although I will Always have love for my vinyl as it’s a sound thats not replaceable with its depth. But again thanks for the recommendation/ link for Amazon HD music👍🏻👊🏻
Current modest setup is Nad c356bee , CD player Nad C568 , Furman Elite-20 power factori , TT Pro-ject debut carbon with a red cartridge.Speakers Klipsch 600m on B channel and Monitor Audio Bronze 500 6m’s on the A channels. I switch back and fourth for a different flavor of sound depending on the mood. Klipsch 12” sub that’s hooked up but rarely run it except sometimes with the Klipsch . To my 😂Longshoreman trained ears I do t think I could be any happier .
Awesome
Have you listen to IOTAVX AVX17. How does it perform with movies and 2 channel music.
I see the emotiva is now discontinued without any replacement announced yet. Can you find out what the replacement will be or if they will really replace it?
I assume you're talking about the Emotiva preamp? They responded to that question on another youtube vid and their response was the new preamps will be coming this summer....no month given however.
You seem really excited about doing this review....
Could you please review the Yamaha NS-6490 three way speaker? Would really like to know if I should be happy with them or move on to something newer...........
IOTA stack or the Cambridge Cxa81? Please help me with your guidance.
Sick review matey
I ordered an Emotiva amp into Canada and there was only local sales tax, no delivery charge or import duties.
I call BS - Mistakes were made cause I paid duty on my A-100 in December in to Ontario
@@NuclearCowboyTube I got mine in December as well. I figure because it's made in the USA then NAFTA/USMCA kicked in. My BasX400Z had ~70 bucks CAD in tax plus 15 in broker fees on a 399.00 USD purchase. I'm sure they used the same broker. What was your import duties?
@@Roof_Pizza Mine were $48.55 on the A-100
@@NuclearCowboyTube I recall going onto the broker website that Emotiva gave me and it came up with zero duties.
Randy, did you have the mid watch last night? No, it's cartridge. Cassettes are tapes man. Get more coffee ☕
Dude. I know it. I had to re-record this thing 3 times. It was late when I was done.
Question on the Iotavx where you show it being bridged between the units. How do you get stereo? You put both amps in mono mode. How do you choose which channel each one plays?
The SA3 is the right channel and the pa3 is the left. It’s the internal switching due to the switch to bridge mode on the back. I’m not sure what is exactly going on inside but that’s how it works from a practical standpoint
Randy, would you know if I could bridge the IOTA SA3 to the Emotiva a 300 amp? When bridging amps in the IOTA manner that you and Sean describe, you cross the stream on a single pair of speakers. Can you do the same with a 2nd pair of speakers? " Crossing the Streams" in the same manner ? Thx for your advice. Be well . May the Force Be With You.......
Hi can you do a video on tube amplifiers for under $300 . Something than can push 2 bookshelves speakers and a sub ? Love today’s video 👍🏻
He has been working late and for the most part he's right on the money.
If you use a sub with the IOTA VX does it high pass filter frequencies to the speakers? Is the crossover frequency adjustable?
It does filter the higher frequencies but way above subwoofer level, so use the filter on the subwoofer itself.
Another great review Randy. A few things to add. The IOTA VX was suppose to be the new NAD products. Also, while I own the Emotiva stack (PT-100 UPA 2), and love it. The blue display is very difficult to read from more than 8 feed away. The menu system has made me loose my cool several times and the remote is.... light. That said I love Emotiva so much as a company, I forgive these shortcomings in my own setup. Would love to see you test some products from Schiit.
I have a Schiit Magnius in house to review. Emotiva has a few eccentricities but, to your point, the overall all value makes those a "non issue" for me.
Incorrect, it was a NAKAMICHI Desended
The IOTAVX comes to $547when you do the currency conversion; plus $47 shipping via DHL, total= $595. The Emotiva is $400 with free shipping in the US. The IOTAVX is 50% more, but is it %50 better?
Math is not your strong suit. 😂
Yeah you’re right, and I messed up, let me see if I can correct that, at (about) $200 more than the Emotiva, is the Iota 150% better? I think I have it right this time
It’s different I can’t say better. Personally I prefer the emotiva
@@claypeterson8299 I can't answer that as I don't own the Emotiva. I do own the IOTAVX sa3 and 2 pa3's. I found the extra sparkle on the top end complimented the Elac UB5's. I recently upgraded to the KEF Q950's and the IOTAVX has oodles of power. I can go to rock concert volumes with no distortion. I also find the IOTAVX to be better looking in my opinion. I've had the IOTAVX for over 2 years with zero issues.
I have however compared the IOTAVX stack to my son's Denon AVR-S650H. It wasn't even a close comparison. The upper mids/highs on the Denon sounded harsh. I also found the Denon didn't soundstage and image very well. The center image was low. Like it was coming down from the TV stand. I used his Pioneer SP-FS52's. When I hooked up the IOTAVX stack, it brought those Pioneers up to the Elac UB5's level. I found the IOTAVX had more detail in everything, treble/mids/bass yet being smoother as well. It's like going from a 720p TV to 4k. The amount of weight behind the bass was about the same on both amps.
I am definitely happy with my purchase. Either way you choose, I am sure you will be happy. I may consider the Emotiva for my son in the near future.
Excellent! Much thanks to both of you for the input; I’ve seen the IOTAVX lurking in the background and was specifically waiting for this comparison before I made a purchase. I’ve already got a pair of Klipsch RP600m’s on the way and I think the Emotiva might be a better pairing for those particular speakers; I don’t think they’ll need any extra help on the top end and might come off as a bit too bright with the IOTA. But again thank you both I appreciate you taking the time!
Ive been looking at the SA3 and PA3 stack but I'm a bit confused on one feature aspect: can the stack be used as dual monoblocks with an AVR in home theatre bypass?
I know you could do this with one or two PA3s, but for the sake of flexibility, can the SA3 be purely a power amp?
Looking like it should've been an Espresso kinda day! Perk(olate) up friend.
Will you make a video about the polk T50's ?
For what it's worth I'm running Emotiva PT-100 and A-300 with a pair of Polk T50s and two Polk Audio PSW10s. I love the combo and the sound I get for the price. The biggest trick I found with the T50s is to get them off the floor. I built 9" Boxes filled with great stuff foam to deaden the resonance and run isolators between the box and the speakers. Made a huge difference in sound.
Magnat MR 780 or Emotiva TA-100 ??
Just got the IOTA SA3. Great sound out of my Elac Debut Reference Bookshelf Speakers. I am ordering the PA3 (probably not fully needed, but what the heck). BUT unfortunately, after hooking up speakers and disconnecting and reconnecting a different speaker (just to test it out), the speaker out jacks on the SA3 have become loose. I am unable to tighten them - they are fully screwed into the jack. 3 of the 4 are jingling loose. I reconnected the Elacs with Banana plugs (I emailed IOTA to see if they would accept those connections.....they do but it is ot in their manual). I just emailed them to see what I am supposed to do with these loose speaker jacks? Not very encouraging as to the quality.... that was disappointing. If I knew what I was doing, probably could take off the cover to the AMP, and check the loose connections against the base where they are screwed in , I presume. I'll wait tom hear from them and post answers here. THX for your video, Randy. Get some Rest, man.....
Hi! I also have the Elac DBRs with the IotaVX stack (first bought the SA3 and then went to buy the PA3). The sound changes a bit indeed, as Sean at Zero Fidelity mentioned.
It sounds punchier and more defined bass, a bit more sense of scale and a bit more emphasis on the treble, so in general I think it improves the experience. The only downside is that for me, the treble takes a bit of a "hard" sound, not as mellow as the SA3 alone.
I am curious to know what your experience is!
@@jdominc3387 JD, shouting out back to you. I have not bought the PA3 Yet !!! I am shopping to see if a refurbished one becomes available. I am being Teased with the Emotiva A-300 Amp , connecting it to the the IOTAVX SA3, to hear those results. After contacting IOTA (remember ..... UK under a new COVID mutation virus requiring more shutdowns in their society), They told me to take off the cover and see if I could tighten the speaker terminals at the back of the unit. I was able to do that . They are fastened with gold plated nuts where I was able to squeeze in a small open ended wrench to tighten the nuts. The fact that the terminals did become loose, left a Little of a Sour Taste in my mouth about quality.... The IOTA SA3 , connected to my Elac Debut 6.2s, plays very well. Great clarity, and yes, Randy is right, a little bright on the treble compared to my existing Denon DRA-800H Receiver. My challenge with what I want to setup in my finished basement Sound Studio - created in 2020 COVID hibernation - is that I paralleled 2 pairs of speakers on the B connection of the Denon. In addition to the Elac DEbut 6.2s and a pair of the Elac Debut Reference 6.2s [different speakers], I had a pair of previously purchased Fluance Signature Series Hifi Bookshelf speakers. I wanted to engage them into my sound setup. I use the "studio" for My Music listening and to play my rekindled interest in Drums. I'm 69 YO, retired due to many spinal disabilities in latter part of 2020, and after a 51 year Hiatus, I'm back to playing drums with limitations. So I paralleled either of the Elacs with the Fluances on the B output, but also, had a a pair of speakers connected to the A speaker output ,unbenounced to me , after cranking it up to say about 60-65 volume level on the Denon Receiver, the power light flashed red and the Receiver shut down..... Too much load and overheating. Posters all over the Audio platforms said : You can't do that.....You will Fry your Amp/Receiver, it's not designed to run 6 speakers . Mind you all the speakers are 8 ohm rated. So I now have the Elac Debut 6.2s connected to the IOTA SA3, playing as the Zone 2 Amp off the Denon, and paralleled the Elac Reference and the Fluances. I'm testing to see if the Denon could handle this setup. It sound very very Good. I have to balance the IOTA volume and settings with the Denon, but it does sound very sweet. The paralleled speakers are the closest to me and the drumset. I'll post more comments as the story evolves a little. Be safe and Well in this Freakin Madness
@@Chiroman527 Wow, that's quite an experiment that you have going on there!
I am a much more basic user :-D
I did try running both the Elacs DRB62 and the Triangle BR03 fom the Yamaha AS-501, as it had option for A+B speakers. It drove them without breaking a sweat, but I could not volume match and so the Triangle, being more sensitive, stood out. Anyway, the sound of them together was better that each on their own - at least, in terms of sounding big, more like I was in a concert!
Happy listenings to you!
@@jdominc3387 just updating my comments. I did get a emotiva A300 amp. Connected to the IOTAVXSA3 . Yes, the amp adds a bit more punch, not a "dramatic" enhancement driving Elac Debut Reference speakers or a set of Elac Debut 6.2s and a pair of Fluance Signature Series Surround HiFi Bookshelf speakers . But similar to your comments, due to the various speaker's sensitivity, and using 2 differentReceiver / Amps (Denon DRA 800H Receiver and the IOTA SA3 with the Emotiva A300 amp), there are volume differences. I may end up "retiring the Denon DRA 800H Receiver or selling it (it's only 7 months old purchased in July 2020), a d using the SA3 abd A300 Stack to hook up all 3 pairs of speakers. Happy Listening ....
Emotiva looks like a better build quality product.
Check out the YAMAHA RN-303! A bit cheaper, with similar features except that it adds wi-fi/Bluetooth. Not as pretty as these
I’d love to listen to that
How can you fairly compair old with new?