Dear China, time for you to put an adjustable high pass filter on all your amps. Dual sub outs like the A0200 will be great too. Thanks for the HDMI though, its a real life saver.
Thanks for the video, as always your videos are very helpful. I really appreciate that you take "affordable" HiFi seriously. My system is in my living room so it needs to be small and relatively attractive 🙂 I began with a bluesound Node and added the SMSL DA-9 last year for powering an old pair of Polk RTi4 speakers. While this worked just fine, I began watching yours and other UA-camr HIFI videos and OH OHHH caught the bug. I could never get my Samsung TV to work with the node (eARC or Optical) Upgraded my speakers to Wharfefale EVO 4.2. now I've upgraded my DA-9 to the AO-300. I am really happy with this amp. I am surprised there are not more reviews of this considering all the videos on other SMSL products I think this is one of there best bang for the bucks!!
You are now my 1st source for reliable hifi reviews. Just ordered one AO300 to power my new Wharfedale Lintons. It will replace a glorious Arcam Alpha 9. Hope I won't be disappointed. Keep up the great work you do👍
@@doifeellucky more than I expected. It replaces my good old Arcam Alpha 9, and I am pleasantly surprised. Detailed and punchy. With the Lintons it seems to work quite well. Amazing value for money.
@@overworkin1 have fun! I can't describe myself as an audiophile but in the last 35 years I had several systems, around 10 different amps in the 1000 -> 2000 range. This is my first class D. When it came, I honestly was quite skeptical. As I am used to amps weighting from 8 to 20 kg, seeing this tiny thing I was wondering how it could push the Linton's bass drive decently. But hey, it proved me wrong... 😂
This has been on my wishlist for the past month - waiting to catch the right sale. One of the missing specs from the promo material (Aoshida exclusive SMSL release?) are the headphone mW output. Were you able to get that info? I am very pleased to hear you liked it. I have loved my SMSL DA-9, though the power supply is starting to make a buzzing noise. How was the HDMI audio input? Was it distinguishable from the other digital inputs? Would you classify this as a "soundbar killer"?
I wouldn't even compare it to ANY soundbar system. And soundbars are amazing in their own right and often a solution superior to full stereo systems. I own the Accuphase similar to the one in the video background-- $8,000. plus. The SMSL is not in that class but gives the Accuphase a run for it's money. Accuphase equals a Bently. SMSL equals a top of the line Camry. There is nothing wrong with a top notch Camry.
just ordered one to replace my cambridge axr 100. i tried the smsl a300 and loved the sound quality but found it visually unappealing. hopefully this one checks all the boxes.
I find this an improvement over my DA-9 both visually and sonically. Plus I finally got my TV to work using the ARC connection! I’m very happy with is amp especially for the money. I was looking at much more expensive options. How do you like yours?
i bought this amp right away as i wanted a amp with arc, one thing i noticed is that the tv seems to control a dac preamp volume and then the amp is controlled with the remote also doesnt turn on or off with other equipment which i guess would be hdmi cec but again i wish it had that. overall coming from a a07 48v and a fosi v3 no issue at all love the sound and eq options. another thing is the remote is very cheap i pulled the battery tab off once and it broke and slides off all the time lol
You made great choice, it is a truly game changer, NOS like PCM filter option and ARC offering put AO300 head and shoulder above most affordable integrated amps.
Did you ever get the AO300 to turn on/off with your TV remote hooked up to the ARC? Looking to pickup an integrated that is family friendly (one remote use) for our living room setup and if this doesn't work it's sort of a deal breaker, unfortunately.
@@Tharbamar Speaking of which, Sir, and from your experience, does the DAC in this AO300 suffer from the same issue the SU-1 has ("crackle" when switching inputs or bit rate) via USB? I got the SU-1 during black Friday and I like the sound but it's connected to my PC and anytime I switch app or even tabs on the browser it will make a little crackle sound and I have to say it is getting more and more annoying. Even with an upgraded USB-C cable. So, I would consider stepping up to this one if it doesn't have that issue. I need the USB so I can play my backed up DSDs via ASIO on the computer otherwise I would have switched to COAX or Optical already. Thank you in advance for any information/input.
Great review thanks. Could you please let me know if there is any kind of high pass filter on this amp. I'm going to look at more of your video's and subscribe.
Hi, I’m new to HiFi world, looking for some opinions about getting amps. Would you recommend getting ao300 or SMSL su-1+ Fosi V3? Hope to hear from you, thanks.
Hi, thanks for this review on this amp as I am considering buying. Would this amp be a good match for Triangle BR03 or 02? KEF Q150 is another I am considering? Any input would be appreciated.
Considering buying this during Black Friday (hoping for discounts). What do you think about pairing it with the Kef LS 50 (original, not meta)? Specs-wise, this has plenty of power, so in theory, it should be a good match?
I own the KEf r3 Meta, also in Indigo Blue color. The r3 meta is a great imaging and separation speaker. It loves power as its a 4 ohm 87 db sensitivity speaker. This affordable class D amp cannot deliver the juice the KEFs love. Also its a cold sound because both this smsl amp and the r3 meta are very transparent. Now Thabamar's Accuphase Integrated will make the r3 meta sound fantastic. Look forward to the r3 meta review.
Dear Tharmabar, how does the AO300 fare in comparison with class AB amps like the audiolab 6000A? Especially if paired with dacs like the smsl do300ex or topping e70 velvet?
Great video! I have one question, how do you think this AO300 would compare to the Loxjie A30? In terms of sound quality through digital inputs then :)
The loxjie A40 has been on sale for several months now, using the same components as the AO300. I'm looking forward to a review and comparison with the AO300.
I'd be interested to hear if you can compare this AO300 (stand alone) to SMSL AO200 mkII + DO300 DAC. Will the different DAC plus the separation of the components make a difference in sound quality? Thanks!
I do not have the DO300, but I have the DO200 mkii DAC. I bought the AO200 MKii along with the DO200 Mkii because of the limitation of inputs on the AO200 MKii. I then got the AO300 and I can tell you the AO200 mkii + DO200 mkii combo offers less distortion when volume is above 80 db ( I never listen music above 75 db FYI) . One thing to keep in mind is that I can hear hiss on the tweeters of all 4 pairs of speakers whether they are connected to the AO300 OR AO200 mkii. I can hear the hiss up to 4 feet away in a quiet environment, but it is not audible when music is playing and the volume of the hiss doesn't increase when I turn the volume up. It is just there no matter when the amps are either grounded or lifted. It could be because my speakers are high sensitivity especially the Bowers & Wilkins 702 signature and Wharfedale Elysian 2, but I do like the big sound these tiny amps offer.
May I know if it has auto on/off feature when a signal comes in from one of the inputs, and if it can auto switch from one input to another? I want to use a Wiim to stream into AO300 using Airplay, and hope this AO300 can turn on and off by sensing a signal. By the way, great review! 🙏👍
Hi This is very close to the A0200 MK2. The AO300 does have the better internal dac but as far as actual sound quality goes which one would you say is better? I ask because I wish to buy either one but currently am undecided and do not have a huge disposable income, thankyou.
How would this go with a turntable with a built in preamp? I bought this brand off Amazon for 119 au for the base model and was blown away with the sound improvements it made to my system. Would you recommend to try this model or wait for a better model for music ? Thanks in advance
Hi, Tharbamar , I bought a topping pa7 plus , I saw a review made by you , very pleased with this small amp will replaced a crown 2500 , as I used for my jbl 2420 compressor , and need another amp for my jbl e130 midbass , this model AO300 you think have same clean performace as topping pa7 plus or I should get another topping like pa5 Ii or pa7 ? Thank you
Can't comment on the Topping but I just replaced my DA-9 with the AO-300. I definitely feel its an improvement. More clarity, power and connection options, no brainer at the price I got it.
merci pour se test. etant hifi vintage et recherche du moderne. apres votre video je pense me prendre se peiit ampli moderne pour tester la classe D. merci beaucoup. fred du poitou from france
Give me a Class D mono block version a-la the Marantz MA-300 with the same chassis dimensions, XLR & RCA inputs, 200 watts min @ 8ohms without all the frills for about $200 and I'll buy 3 for my front stage home theater.
it may not be in your price range but here is very good one even closer to Class A, ua-cam.com/video/l601nn2qgGM/v-deo.html or another better option is ICEpower Class D Amp with R2R Pre stage.
Well I bought this amp after seeing this review. I have kef q150 speakers with sonos sub and surrounds before this. Everything connected together via sonos amp. Smsl ao300 Sounds so much better than the sonos amp in music. Its much more natural and less processed. Sonos amp sounds artificial and processed for music. For movies sonos amp is much better.
What is the difference in sound between SMSL AO300 and DENON PMA-600NE? Also, I have Topping E70 Velvet. Would you recommend using it as a DAC and then outputting to a SMSL AO300? Or use SMSL AO300 directly as DAC+AMP Have a nice day :) (Sorry, I meant if I use the RP-500M II speaker for comparison)
Class D and Denon is AB design, if I were you I would go with this Topping PA7 Plus Review, Favorite Class D Amp of 2023 ua-cam.com/video/lPJS1IRCTqE/v-deo.html
The topping pa7 plus looks like a good model, but since it doesn't have SUB-OUT... (I use it to listen to music, PC GAME, PS5 and some BD movies, so I need SUB-OUT) Thanks for your answers and suggestions.@@Tharbamar
I have this running my EVO 4.2’s. No problem getting them to high spl levels. I would highly recommend especially when Amazon has a 15% discount right now, at least in Canada at this time.
Hi guys, I see that this integrated amp has HDMI-ARC. Will the amp fully integrate with your TV through HDMI cable. I mean, can you power it off and on, control the volume with your TV remote? HDMI-CEC required for that I think?
My tests on two new LG and Philips TVs show that there is no control for turning the amplifier on and off. However, the volume control controls the built-in DAC, not the amplifier itself. You don't see the value of this volume anywhere, you only hear that the volume is changing. It's better than nothing, but I would prefer to be able to enable full control over the device using the TV remote control. As you wrote, it is called HDMI-CEC and I guess SMSL AO300 does not have it.
@@polop566it's a missed opportunity in my book, cos I would buy it in a heartbeat. Now it looses to ao200 mk1,mk2+fiio taishan/btr5, which combined with firestick 4k with "smsl soundbar" and auto tv profile can control the tv/amp/dac's - power on/off and vol control. Convenance here that I'm looking for with ao300, but I'm afraid the sound cannot be controlled with firestick remote, cos ao300 has the C variant of the remote as smsl dl200, which i have.
@@mantasdeveika8855 Yes fire tv can control c variants DACs not a variant amp currently weird thing is mute and on off is working only volume is not working so you can set volume control to tv in fire stick using arc and can still on off at the same time
@@doublebstyle-hb2dt apparently firestick has 3 remote profiles for controlling smsl devices. I can confirm that ao200, ao200 mk2 with rc-8a and smsl dl200 with 8c works brilliantly. You can control them even if you are pointing to the opposite side of the device.
Hey, guys. I'm mounting my very first "hifi" set up and recently acquired this unit. Do you think it is enough to properly drive the elacs b6.2 ($320 on Amazon)? My other options are KEF Q150 ($500) and Polk ES20 ($550). I've heard the 6.2 can sound meh if underpowered. Do you think the extra investment is worth it?
@@Tharbamar Thanks for answering! I think you're videos are super informative. My room is very small, 11x11ft, solid concrete and I have no additional equipment besides the integrated amp and good banana cables (if that makes any difference at all) it will be used 90% for music and 10% gaming. Current speakers, sony sscs5 are about 8 inches away from the wall and placement options are kinda limited.
Hello Tharbamar, I currently have a SMSL A300 amplifier and a SMSL SU-8S DAC, do you recommend upgrading to the SMSL AO 300, or do you have another recommendation. thank you.
No you do not need this unless you want HDMI ARC, generally if you are happy with current set up I would highly suggest you to look for better speakers than you have. Thanks
It may not suit your taste but she's the only one that let me use her music, in case if you don't know her live album is recorded live with end to end DSD format. Music itself is pretty good for system testing, my sound samples are just to have reference for those who can't audition the components, thanks
If you don't need the "multiroom" stuff, then definitely yes. Wiim Amp is more expensive with less power. For regular listening, this one is better for the money.
Cirrus Logic's CS43131 DAC chip seems to be at least 5 years old and used in many entry level DACs and dongles far below the $289 price point. Maybe that's part of the reason why the SMSL AO300 is such a bargain.
It is obvious than the KEF R3 Meta sound better. But the sound is not engadging. From a graph: SMSL AO300: 50 watts / 8ohms at 0.1% THD+N. And 70 watts at 1% THD+N. At 4 Ohms? SMSL : Output Power: stereophonic 165W x2 (4Ω) / 85W x2 (8Ω) :((( It is true 85 watts (8 Ohms) at.. 10% THD+N
@@sweetsansui2829 that is your personal preference but from my HD6XX, the Knight 1 sounds bright, thin, shrill and mids are nowhere as pronounced as the R3 Meta. I dont know what warm means to you but the knight's sound is far from warm, especially next to the neutral measuring and sounding R3 Meta.
I would like to inform you that K1 went almost toe to toe with KEF Reference 1 Meta in sound quality when we tested back to back at KEF dealer, R3 Meta have very good clean sound but in the real life K1 is more enjoyable musically with deeper sound stage, thanks
@@Tharbamar its all about personal preference here, you like a tipped up top end, some prefer a neutral sound. Yeah, a lifted top end will give 'air' and 'space', but not all will like that type of presentation because it will add to the shrillness. Preference.
@markwinston3119 I never like unnatural tipped-up top end and shrillness is depending on paring components and room. If anyone really preferred natural sound should go listen to live music to hear how close their home speaker can deliver that, the point is real music is exciting if speakers can redeliver close to that in engaging manner it will do for me. Thanks EDIT: Please note, in my previous comment I was comparing Knight 1 with Reference 1 Meta, as you know it's a greater version of R3 Meta.
MQA is not used all over Asia. Here in India there is no MQA service ,even if I am ready to over pay after going full maniac. May be you are just talking about east Asia or just China, which I don't know about.
I cringe every time you play that lady who is murdering Sade's song. Love the channel but hate when you play that track. Otherwise this little amp sounds promising.
Dear,
I have been following your reviews for more than a year and I want to thank you for your good work and effort.
I hope you don't give up!
Thank you for your support.
Dear China, time for you to put an adjustable high pass filter on all your amps. Dual sub outs like the A0200 will be great too. Thanks for the HDMI though, its a real life saver.
Insane value. The KEF sounds incredible!
Thank you. Great review! Mines on the way and I cant wait!!
Good choice!
Thanks so much for the great review, I love your style of talking about audio equipment
Thanks for the video, as always your videos are very helpful. I really appreciate that you take "affordable" HiFi seriously. My system is in my living room so it needs to be small and relatively attractive 🙂 I began with a bluesound Node and added the SMSL DA-9 last year for powering an old pair of Polk RTi4 speakers. While this worked just fine, I began watching yours and other UA-camr HIFI videos and OH OHHH caught the bug. I could never get my Samsung TV to work with the node (eARC or Optical) Upgraded my speakers to Wharfefale EVO 4.2. now I've upgraded my DA-9 to the AO-300. I am really happy with this amp. I am surprised there are not more reviews of this considering all the videos on other SMSL products I think this is one of there best bang for the bucks!!
Great! Thanks, waiting for your overview and review of their DO300EX!
Cool something to keep an eye out for! Thanks for the review
You bet!
Great job man appreciate the video my dude !
Appreciate it!
Wow! Those KEF’s are sounding splendid!
You are now my 1st source for reliable hifi reviews. Just ordered one AO300 to power my new Wharfedale Lintons. It will replace a glorious Arcam Alpha 9. Hope I won't be disappointed. Keep up the great work you do👍
Great to hear! Thanks
How is it?
@@doifeellucky more than I expected. It replaces my good old Arcam Alpha 9, and I am pleasantly surprised. Detailed and punchy. With the Lintons it seems to work quite well. Amazing value for money.
I just replaced my DA-9 driving my EVO 4.2's with the AO300 after watching this video. I am really impressed and very happy with this amp.
@@overworkin1 have fun! I can't describe myself as an audiophile but in the last 35 years I had several systems, around 10 different amps in the 1000 -> 2000 range. This is my first class D. When it came, I honestly was quite skeptical. As I am used to amps weighting from 8 to 20 kg, seeing this tiny thing I was wondering how it could push the Linton's bass drive decently. But hey, it proved me wrong... 😂
Hi. Great review
this Amp will be good for kef ls50 meta? Or better choice topping pa7 plus?
Thanks for a nice review.
Is there any chance you might do a review and compare the upcoming Wiim amp with the SMSL AO300?
I would if they send me a sample, thanks
This has been on my wishlist for the past month - waiting to catch the right sale. One of the missing specs from the promo material (Aoshida exclusive SMSL release?) are the headphone mW output. Were you able to get that info? I am very pleased to hear you liked it. I have loved my SMSL DA-9, though the power supply is starting to make a buzzing noise. How was the HDMI audio input? Was it distinguishable from the other digital inputs? Would you classify this as a "soundbar killer"?
I wouldn't even compare it to ANY soundbar system. And soundbars are amazing in their own right and often a solution superior to full stereo systems.
I own the Accuphase similar to the one in the video background-- $8,000. plus. The SMSL is not in that class but gives the Accuphase a run for it's money. Accuphase equals a Bently. SMSL equals a top of the line Camry. There is nothing wrong with a top notch Camry.
Those KEF’s had me doing shoulder shakes! 😊
have one on my desktop and another in the garage so good im thinking about a back up.
Any thoughts on this amplifier vs the Loxjie A40 for use as a 2.1 system only? I read online a lot of people having issues with the SMSL sub out.
just ordered one to replace my cambridge axr 100. i tried the smsl a300 and loved the sound quality but found it visually unappealing. hopefully this one checks all the boxes.
I find this an improvement over my DA-9 both visually and sonically. Plus I finally got my TV to work using the ARC connection! I’m very happy with is amp especially for the money. I was looking at much more expensive options. How do you like yours?
Do you think that the SMSL AO300 is better than the SMSL AO200 mkii + SMSL SU1 dac ?
Should I consider this Ao300 as an upgrade coming from an alientek d8 ? (with Focal Aria 906). Keep up the good work ! 🤩
i bought this amp right away as i wanted a amp with arc, one thing i noticed is that the tv seems to control a dac preamp volume and then the amp is controlled with the remote also doesnt turn on or off with other equipment which i guess would be hdmi cec but again i wish it had that. overall coming from a a07 48v and a fosi v3 no issue at all love the sound and eq options. another thing is the remote is very cheap i pulled the battery tab off once and it broke and slides off all the time lol
You made great choice, it is a truly game changer, NOS like PCM filter option and ARC offering put AO300 head and shoulder above most affordable integrated amps.
@@Tharbamar does it have crossover options between speaker and sub out?
How would you compare the Fosi Audio V3 to the smsl ao300?
Did you ever get the AO300 to turn on/off with your TV remote hooked up to the ARC? Looking to pickup an integrated that is family friendly (one remote use) for our living room setup and if this doesn't work it's sort of a deal breaker, unfortunately.
How would this amp compare against the Cambridge CXA61?
It should be great as cheap desktop all in one!
Thanks for the review!
You bet!
@@Tharbamar Speaking of which, Sir, and from your experience, does the DAC in this AO300 suffer from the same issue the SU-1 has ("crackle" when switching inputs or bit rate) via USB?
I got the SU-1 during black Friday and I like the sound but it's connected to my PC and anytime I switch app or even tabs on the browser it will make a little crackle sound and I have to say it is getting more and more annoying. Even with an upgraded USB-C cable.
So, I would consider stepping up to this one if it doesn't have that issue. I need the USB so I can play my backed up DSDs via ASIO on the computer otherwise I would have switched to COAX or Optical already.
Thank you in advance for any information/input.
Do you speakers make a small pop when you switch sources or eq?
Great review thanks.
Could you please let me know if there is any kind of high pass filter on this amp.
I'm going to look at more of your video's and subscribe.
No high pass filter, only SUB out, thanks
Hi, I’m new to HiFi world, looking for some opinions about getting amps.
Would you recommend getting ao300 or SMSL su-1+ Fosi V3?
Hope to hear from you, thanks.
thus this dac/amp combo good for iem and power hungry headphones?
Great review as always..thanks. I currently have a NAD C338. Will the AO300 be an upgrade sound quality wise?
One thing for sure is AO300 will beat it out in resolution and dynamics. Thanks
Thanks.
DANG NOW I WANT THIS ONE WHICH WOULD YOU Say better? A0200 mkIII or this?
Hi, thanks for this review on this amp as I am considering buying. Would this amp be a good match for Triangle BR03 or 02? KEF Q150 is another I am considering? Any input would be appreciated.
This amp is transparent in sound it should work well with most speakers, thanks
Considering buying this during Black Friday (hoping for discounts). What do you think about pairing it with the Kef LS 50 (original, not meta)? Specs-wise, this has plenty of power, so in theory, it should be a good match?
It is indeed discounted at the moment. I ordered one just a few minutes ago.
I own the KEf r3 Meta, also in Indigo Blue color. The r3 meta is a great imaging and separation speaker. It loves power as its a 4 ohm 87 db sensitivity speaker. This affordable class D amp cannot deliver the juice the KEFs love. Also its a cold sound because both this smsl amp and the r3 meta are very transparent. Now Thabamar's Accuphase Integrated will make the r3 meta sound fantastic. Look forward to the r3 meta review.
Yes, KEF loudspeakers love watts.
KEF R3 Meta, measured by Erin: 3.15 Ohms at 141 Hz.
Which amp are you using to driver R3 Metas?
Great review, I really trust your evaluations, What do you recommend for stream device to add this amp?
I would say in right price point WiiM Mini/Pro would do If you're going to use internal DAC of AO300, Thanks
how does it compare to rotel amps under $1000.00 that include a phono section ?
Dear Tharmabar, how does the AO300 fare in comparison with class AB amps like the audiolab 6000A? Especially if paired with dacs like the smsl do300ex or topping e70 velvet?
Great video! I have one question, how do you think this AO300 would compare to the Loxjie A30? In terms of sound quality through digital inputs then :)
It would be easy win for AO300 solely based on MA5332MS CLASS D chip alone and features are on different level, thanks
Mid and Highs similar but much better than loxjie a30 in terms of bass
The loxjie A40 has been on sale for several months now, using the same components as the AO300. I'm looking forward to a review and comparison with the AO300.
No plan to review A40.
Have you tried the rca input, and if so how is it? Great review! 👍
Yes I have it is as good as anything in the price range.
Thanks for the good review Which cable is the best for connecting with MacBook Pro?
I use USB-C or 3.5mm - RCA Y Cable both works great, thanks
thank you Tharbamar, great job! if you had to compare SMSL AO300 to AB class amplifier, what value it would have to be?
I would say in sound quality wise something like Yamaha AS801, DENON 600NE, Cambridge AXR100 etc
I'd be interested to hear if you can compare this AO300 (stand alone) to SMSL AO200 mkII + DO300 DAC.
Will the different DAC plus the separation of the components make a difference in sound quality?
Thanks!
I do not have the DO300, but I have the DO200 mkii DAC. I bought the AO200 MKii along with the DO200 Mkii because of the limitation of inputs on the AO200 MKii. I then got the AO300 and I can tell you the AO200 mkii + DO200 mkii combo offers less distortion when volume is above 80 db ( I never listen music above 75 db FYI) . One thing to keep in mind is that I can hear hiss on the tweeters of all 4 pairs of speakers whether they are connected to the AO300 OR AO200 mkii. I can hear the hiss up to 4 feet away in a quiet environment, but it is not audible when music is playing and the volume of the hiss doesn't increase when I turn the volume up. It is just there no matter when the amps are either grounded or lifted. It could be because my speakers are high sensitivity especially the Bowers & Wilkins 702 signature and Wharfedale Elysian 2, but I do like the big sound these tiny amps offer.
@@dukeandappricot Did you do a firmware update? Have read it should fix that.
@@dukeandappricot I have got al200, I can hear hiss too when i change input
Sorry if you covered this, does it do digital to digital conversion on the line input?
No, the MA5332MS processes analog signals. Otherwise the device would not need a D/A, but an A/D converter, like the Sabaj A30a.
May I know if it has auto on/off feature when a signal comes in from one of the inputs, and if it can auto switch from one input to another? I want to use a Wiim to stream into AO300 using Airplay, and hope this AO300 can turn on and off by sensing a signal. By the way, great review! 🙏👍
AO300 doesn’t have auto sensing. Thanks
@@Tharbamarthanks a lot 😊
Hi
This is very close to the A0200 MK2. The AO300 does have the better internal dac but as far as actual sound quality goes which one would you say is better? I ask because I wish to buy either one but currently am undecided and do not have a huge disposable income, thankyou.
Both uses same amplifiers inside, you will have to make your decision based on if you want/need better internal DAC with great features.
These little all in ones never have bass management (crossover control between speakers and sub), does this one have it?
nope
Ok i just bought one, which 5" or 6" bookshelf speakers are good for this amp?
What Chinese chip amp has the closest sound signature to Class AB tone and texture? Thank you friend
Any SMSL amp with SDB setting.
Where do you stream this from? Not on Tidal, Spoti, Apple. Only YT, did you use that as source?
Not streaming for sound sample, I'm playing SACD Ripped DSD file via Audirvana.
How would this go with a turntable with a built in preamp? I bought this brand off Amazon for 119 au for the base model and was blown away with the sound improvements it made to my system. Would you recommend to try this model or wait for a better model for music ?
Thanks in advance
It should sound very decent using RCA input on AO300 from your TT pre, Thanks
Hi, Tharbamar , I bought a topping pa7 plus , I saw a review made by you , very pleased with this small amp will replaced a crown 2500 , as I used for my jbl 2420 compressor , and need another amp for my jbl e130 midbass , this model AO300 you think have same clean performace as topping pa7 plus or I should get another topping like pa5 Ii or pa7 ? Thank you
I would use with same amp for both drivers. Thanks
How do you find the sound of AO300 compared to Audilab 7000A, especially if you had chance to test them with KEF R3 Metas?
I haven't tried 7000a in my system to answer your question correctly.
thanks, which type of connection you used for the sound sample?
Could be Optical input but it's been a while, thanks
Great video. Is the AO300 better than a (DA-9 + Topping E50)?
Can't comment on the Topping but I just replaced my DA-9 with the AO-300. I definitely feel its an improvement. More clarity, power and connection options, no brainer at the price I got it.
Hi... just wanted to get your kind advice/recommendation on this set-up: SMSL AO300; Polk R200; 20sqm room; Sub-woofer (optional).
It will be totally fine for your space but rest is depends on how the room acoustics are, thanks
@@TharbamarThanks to your quick reply… a great accommodation and advice.👍
Hi nice review. Would a pair of Kef Q350s with this amplifier be enough to exploit them 100%?
Hi it'll be depending on your room and how loud you want to hear it, it is more than enough to deliver 90+db range in average size room, thanks
@@Tharbamar Thanks you man!
merci pour se test. etant hifi vintage et recherche du moderne. apres votre video je pense me prendre se peiit ampli moderne pour tester la classe D. merci beaucoup. fred du poitou from france
Give me a Class D mono block version a-la the Marantz MA-300 with the same chassis dimensions, XLR & RCA inputs, 200 watts min @ 8ohms without all the frills for about $200 and I'll buy 3 for my front stage home theater.
it may not be in your price range but here is very good one even closer to Class A, ua-cam.com/video/l601nn2qgGM/v-deo.html
or another better option is ICEpower Class D Amp with R2R Pre stage.
Killer deal for KEF speakers...Let's just call it KEF LOVER amp!
Very true, all Q and R series owners should try AO300.
Thanks for the Kef test. I have a Q350. It's decided, I bought this wonderful amplifier.
@@564Odyssey
Are you loving the Kef ao300 combo?
Well I bought this amp after seeing this review. I have kef q150 speakers with sonos sub and surrounds before this. Everything connected together via sonos amp.
Smsl ao300 Sounds so much better than the sonos amp in music. Its much more natural and less processed.
Sonos amp sounds artificial and processed for music.
For movies sonos amp is much better.
Hi. Hows the sound of internal Dac Vs standalone dacs like Topping e50 or Smsl Su9 Pro ?
Internal DAC is very good for the money. I would upgrade something else.
@@Tharbamar thanx for.the support. Greetings from Mexico /!
Sounds like I could connect my Xbox and TV well to this with Qaquatics 3030i and their sub qb12
What is the difference in sound between SMSL AO300 and DENON PMA-600NE?
Also, I have Topping E70 Velvet. Would you recommend using it as a DAC and then outputting to a SMSL AO300? Or use SMSL AO300 directly as DAC+AMP
Have a nice day :)
(Sorry, I meant if I use the RP-500M II speaker for comparison)
Class D and Denon is AB design, if I were you I would go with this
Topping PA7 Plus Review, Favorite Class D Amp of 2023
ua-cam.com/video/lPJS1IRCTqE/v-deo.html
The topping pa7 plus looks like a good model, but since it doesn't have SUB-OUT...
(I use it to listen to music, PC GAME, PS5 and some BD movies, so I need SUB-OUT)
Thanks for your answers and suggestions.@@Tharbamar
If you can tell: A DAC with which chip sounds better with Infineon MA5332MS (SMSL AO300) or with ES9039MSPro (SMSL DO400) I hesitate between them...
ESS better in overall sound quality, please note AO300 comes with CS43131 from Cirus Logic, MA5332MS is class D chip.
@@Tharbamar Thanks for the reply!
Здравствуйте, имею усилитель fx audio 502 pro, подскажите пожалуйста улучшается качество звука если я куплю smsl ao 300. За ранее благодарю.
Is this good choice for my wharfedale Evo 4.1 ? I have the Denon 600ne
I have this running my EVO 4.2’s. No problem getting them to high spl levels. I would highly recommend especially when Amazon has a 15% discount right now, at least in Canada at this time.
Sounds like Denton 80th & this gonna pair well 🤔
Nice review sir how will this sound with pair of kef q150?
It should sound nice together up to 85-88db range in average rooms. Thanks
Hi I am trying to decide between the AO300 and AL200 for my PC. Any advice?
AO300 will my choice, thanks
This one or SA400 ? Thank you
Tell me if several inputs are connected, does it remember the selected one after a complete shutdown?
It will memorized all settings.
@@Tharbamar Thank you friend!
Hi guys, I see that this integrated amp has HDMI-ARC. Will the amp fully integrate with your TV through HDMI cable. I mean, can you power it off and on, control the volume with your TV remote? HDMI-CEC required for that I think?
My tests on two new LG and Philips TVs show that there is no control for turning the amplifier on and off. However, the volume control controls the built-in DAC, not the amplifier itself. You don't see the value of this volume anywhere, you only hear that the volume is changing. It's better than nothing, but I would prefer to be able to enable full control over the device using the TV remote control. As you wrote, it is called HDMI-CEC and I guess SMSL AO300 does not have it.
@@polop566it's a missed opportunity in my book, cos I would buy it in a heartbeat. Now it looses to ao200 mk1,mk2+fiio taishan/btr5, which combined with firestick 4k with "smsl soundbar" and auto tv profile can control the tv/amp/dac's - power on/off and vol control. Convenance here that I'm looking for with ao300, but I'm afraid the sound cannot be controlled with firestick remote, cos ao300 has the C variant of the remote as smsl dl200, which i have.
@@mantasdeveika8855 Yes fire tv can control c variants DACs not a variant amp currently weird thing is mute and on off is working only volume is not working so you can set volume control to tv in fire stick using arc and can still on off at the same time
@@doublebstyle-hb2dt apparently firestick has 3 remote profiles for controlling smsl devices. I can confirm that ao200, ao200 mk2 with rc-8a and smsl dl200 with 8c works brilliantly. You can control them even if you are pointing to the opposite side of the device.
Hey, guys. I'm mounting my very first "hifi" set up and recently acquired this unit. Do you think it is enough to properly drive the elacs b6.2 ($320 on Amazon)? My other options are KEF Q150 ($500) and Polk ES20 ($550). I've heard the 6.2 can sound meh if underpowered. Do you think the extra investment is worth it?
It will be all depends on your room size as well as paring components.
@@Tharbamar Thanks for answering! I think you're videos are super informative. My room is very small, 11x11ft, solid concrete and I have no additional equipment besides the integrated amp and good banana cables (if that makes any difference at all) it will be used 90% for music and 10% gaming. Current speakers, sony sscs5 are about 8 inches away from the wall and placement options are kinda limited.
@@Lethargyca
You might consider Wharfedale 225 ($299). They are a highly regarded budget speaker, even on this channel.
I have got KEF Q350 with it, and it sounds great!
Hello Tharbamar, I currently have a SMSL A300 amplifier and a SMSL SU-8S DAC, do you recommend upgrading to the SMSL AO 300, or do you have another recommendation. thank you.
No you do not need this unless you want HDMI ARC, generally if you are happy with current set up I would highly suggest you to look for better speakers than you have. Thanks
@@Tharbamar Thank you Tharbamar for answering, your opinion helps me a lot.
Can I somehow control the crossover using the filters?
You cannot because they are only for internal digital file filters.
Bro do you think its time you change all your test songs. Lol. Btw love every video of yours.
It may not suit your taste but she's the only one that let me use her music, in case if you don't know her live album is recorded live with end to end DSD format. Music itself is pretty good for system testing, my sound samples are just to have reference for those who can't audition the components, thanks
@@Tharbamar oh yes, I forgot copyright. Okok pls continue with your great work.
Здравствуйте, подскажите пожалуйста не уступает ЦАП этого устройства smsl su-1, или превосходит
It’s about the same in sound quality.
How do you feel about this 165wx2 drive?
it's depending on the speaker but it is good power for the money.
Hello friend!.. My question is the following... Will PSB Alpha T20 towers of 8hms and 120 watts with a sensitivity of 90db work correctly?
It should be fine don’t worry about wattage because most small amps are all dynamic power ratings.
Hello, do you think this amp sounds better for kef than powernode n330?
It's a great paring with KEF in synergy wise and AO300 is better choice if you care for NOS like filter option and price, thanks
@@Tharbamarbesides the NOS option. What about comparing the amp and soundstage?
@@dickertjedap Soundstage will be wider, As I stated in my review AO300 can give any dedicated two channel US$1k amp run for money in every regards.
Next review aiyima a07 max BTL with nice dac 🥰🥰🥰
It’s a nice amp but BTL without balanced design is only good for subs. Thanks
What is your sound like with movies and television series?
No problem, sound is fine.
Does it have cooling fan like SA400?
It does not.
So the A300 does not have a DAC only the AO300 has?
yes correct.
Vs al200? Is the same right? Thks
A little different AO300 come with HDMI ARC, thanks
Is it better than the wiim amp?
If you don't need the "multiroom" stuff, then definitely yes. Wiim Amp is more expensive with less power. For regular listening, this one is better for the money.
Cirrus Logic's CS43131 DAC chip seems to be at least 5 years old and used in many entry level DACs and dongles far below the $289 price point. Maybe that's part of the reason why the SMSL AO300 is such a bargain.
Nevertheless, it sounds good, I like it!
Weak range of low-medium scope of the amplifier - KEF is better suited.
Does it have crossover control? What is sub crossover and does it remove low frequency from speakers with sub connected?
See the review.
@@Tharbamar I have but must have missed it. Could of just answered the question, instead of been smart about it.
nope
It is obvious than the KEF R3 Meta sound better. But the sound is not engadging.
From a graph: SMSL AO300: 50 watts / 8ohms at 0.1% THD+N. And 70 watts at 1% THD+N. At 4 Ohms?
SMSL : Output Power: stereophonic 165W x2 (4Ω) / 85W x2 (8Ω) :(((
It is true 85 watts (8 Ohms) at.. 10% THD+N
I would say sound cleaner but not in the league of Knight 1 in Air, Space and Bass.
It sounds very bery bright and echo in Highs,, maybe because of empty room?
How do you listen?
@@Tharbamar phone
Oh ok.
Its practically the same as the AL200 but with a better interface
Not entirely, noise control is not the same.
Is it this or wiim amp?
it should be depending on your need based on the features, thanks
Я один слышу, что высокие частоты полны сибилянтов. Тсыки на вч. ?
Please don’t forget you’re listening on UA-cam.
Do you still have the SX11?
I no longer have SX11.
pretty good eh, def upgrade from 100$ class amps
a little too good i think
11:45 vs 18:23 The KEF makes the Knight 1 sound very imbalanced like a cheap speaker.
I disagree. KEF sounds way too lean for my taste. I prefer Knight 1's warmer presentation.
@@sweetsansui2829 that is your personal preference but from my HD6XX, the Knight 1 sounds bright, thin, shrill and mids are nowhere as pronounced as the R3 Meta. I dont know what warm means to you but the knight's sound is far from warm, especially next to the neutral measuring and sounding R3 Meta.
I would like to inform you that K1 went almost toe to toe with KEF Reference 1 Meta in sound quality when we tested back to back at KEF dealer, R3 Meta have very good clean sound but in the real life K1 is more enjoyable musically with deeper sound stage, thanks
@@Tharbamar its all about personal preference here, you like a tipped up top end, some prefer a neutral sound. Yeah, a lifted top end will give 'air' and 'space', but not all will like that type of presentation because it will add to the shrillness. Preference.
@markwinston3119 I never like unnatural tipped-up top end and shrillness is depending on paring components and room.
If anyone really preferred natural sound should go listen to live music to hear how close their home speaker can deliver that, the point is real music is exciting if speakers can redeliver close to that in engaging manner it will do for me. Thanks
EDIT: Please note, in my previous comment I was comparing Knight 1 with Reference 1 Meta, as you know it's a greater version of R3 Meta.
MQA is not used all over Asia. Here in India there is no MQA service ,even if I am ready to over pay after going full maniac.
May be you are just talking about east Asia or just China, which I don't know about.
It’s pretty popular in Japan, China and SE Asia.
I cringe every time you play that lady who is murdering Sade's song. Love the channel but hate when you play that track. Otherwise this little amp sounds promising.
She's the only one that let me use her music, in case if you don't know her live album is recorded live with end to end DSD format.
@@Tharbamar Okay, I understand. I still enjoy your content.
Oh my gosh why do you do Sade like that... Not cool man. That's a track that should NOT be played as much as possible. 😂