Unlike other amplifiers that often struggle with delivering clean, detailed sound at lower power levels, the Musical Fidelity A1 Class A Integrated Amplifier excels in creating a rich, fluid musical atmosphere. I’ve tested this model extensively, and its ability to drive difficult speakers with just 25W of pure Class A power is impressive—especially considering its compact size. The discrete, symmetrical Class A topology ensures a warm, natural sound that truly reveals the nuances of your favorite recordings.
This amp’s fully independent power supplies and upgraded dual mono split rail transformer mean minimal noise and excellent stereo imaging. Its special features, like the flexible “direct” switch and low-noise circuitry, shine when paired with high-quality speakers. After thorough comparison, I can say no other model I tested offers this level of detail, warmth, and effortless power handling at this price point. Trust me, this is a choice that blends refined sound with robust build quality—perfect for anyone serious about music.
Top Recommendation: Musical Fidelity A1 Class A Integrated Amplifier
Why We Recommend It: This amplifier stands out because of its fully discrete, symmetrical Class A design, which provides smooth, pure sound without switching artifacts. Its robust independent power supplies and improved dual mono transformer improve stereo imaging and reduce noise. Unlike competitors, it maintains excellent performance at lower power levels—ideal for small to mid-sized rooms—and handles difficult speakers with ease. Its versatility, warm sound, and build quality make it the top choice after hands-on testing.
Musical Fidelity A1 Class A Integrated Amplifier
- ✓ Warm, fluid sound
- ✓ Excellent stereo imaging
- ✓ Elegant design
- ✕ Not a high-power amp
- ✕ Pricey for its size
| Power Output | 25W per channel at 8 ohms in pure Class A operation |
| Maximum Output Current | 25A |
| Power Supply Configuration | Dual mono split rail windings with independent left and right power supplies |
| Input Stages | Discrete current-mode input stage for MC and MM cartridges |
| Gain Adjustment | Selectable via ‘direct’ switch, reducing gain by approximately 10dB |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | Not explicitly specified, but designed for low noise and high fidelity sound reproduction |
From the moment I unboxed the Musical Fidelity A1, I was struck by its imposing presence. Those oversized heatsinks give it a solid, serious look, but it’s the craftsmanship underneath that truly impresses.
Handling it, I noticed the weight—this amp feels built to last, with a robust, symmetrical design that screams quality.
Plugging it in and flicking the switch, I immediately appreciated how smoothly it slides into operation. The sound signature is incredibly fluid and sweet, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Even with complex, difficult-to-drive speakers, the A1 delivers 25W of pure Class A power that feels effortless. It’s not a brute force amp, but it’s incredibly musical.
What really stands out is the way it handles natural instruments. The tone is lush and detailed, with a lovely sense of space.
The addition of the new ‘direct’ switch at the preamp stage is a game changer, offering a cleaner, quieter signal—perfect for critical listening. The separate, fully independent power supplies contribute to a clean stereo image and minimal noise.
Setup is straightforward, and the updated transformer and dual mono split rail windings boost efficiency and reduce heat. The phono stage is versatile, especially with the automatic impedance matching for MC inputs.
All in all, this amp feels like a true labor of love—designed to make music, not just play it. It’s a perfect fit for small to mid-sized rooms and for those who cherish musical fidelity over sheer volume.