Esoteric AI-10 review at Soundstage...

[cmalak]

This unit looks interesting for anyone interested in an integrated amp with onboard A->D and D->A conversion, a master clock, and an MM and HOMC phono. Puts out 110wpc into 8ohm and 150wpc into 4ohms. All for $5K. Soundstage.com gave it a Reviewer's Choice award. Very nice build quality too. Here's a link to the review: SoundStage! Equipment Review - Esoteric AI-10 Integrated Amplifier-DAC (3/2010)

[two dot]

WOW!!! Very impressive. I think that we are going to be seeing a lot more amps like this...

I wish that ARC would come out with one, with all of these features... maybe even McIntosh would consider building an integrated with DAC and phono...

[f1 fan]

Cyril....thanks for the link. Now I can add this one to my downsize list

Dave

[cmalak]

Originally Posted by f1 fan

Cyril....thanks for the link. Now I can add this one to my downsize list

Dave

I think it (and amps like it) as long as they are properly executed can be the core of a secondary system that you may use in a home office or a vacation home etc...I don't know that I want this to be at the heart of my primary audio system that I listen to 80% of the time.

It makes sense however and also cuts down on rack space and cabling required naturally. A lot of providers are also taking a modularized approach with variable pricing depending on what modules you spec the gear with (DAC, phono, tuner, etc...). I know NAD, Behold, Bryston, and a few others have products like that.

[Liquid HiFi]

I will have one of those in house for demo in the next month or two.

If anyone is nearby and wants to listen to the AI-10.

OF course preferred treatment for AA members!