Alexandre
Super product for the price. The DAC is of very good quality. I compared it with my Topping D50, and my ears can't tell which one is better, so it's very, very good!
Comment from September 25, 2019 — Experience from September 02, 2019
This product is no longer available for sale!
With its sleek and elegant design accented by two stunning blue VU meters, the Xi125 immediately inspires respect.
Technically innovative and resolutely audiophile in design, it delivers exceptional dynamic sound reproduction without harshness, while capturing every nuance of the music. Equipped with eight very high current power transistors, the X-i125 integrated amplifier delivers 2 x 125 W RMS into 8 Ohms, and its “Hi Bias” operating mode allows it to easily drive most speakers on the market.
Equipped with a high-performance DAC, an asynchronous USB B input and numerous analog inputs, the X-i125 will satisfy everyone’s requirements.
Its global remote control will provide you with greater ease of use.
Alexandre
Super product for the price. The DAC is of very good quality. I compared it with my Topping D50, and my ears can't tell which one is better, so it's very, very good!
Comment from September 25, 2019 — Experience from September 02, 2019
Bernard
Paired with the Focal Chorus 615 speakers, the soundstage is very present. Dynamism, clarity - it's an opportunity to rediscover old CDs (Cambridge CXC player). Comfortable with all types of music. No excessive heating as mentioned by some; it gets warm, but that's when it performs at its best.
Nice power reserve - you can feel it without having to push it.
The input and speaker connections need attention.
The Bluetooth module allows connecting a tablet or mobile device to receive FM radio.
Functional remote control.
May seem imposing, but it breathes, like the musical message it delivers.
Comment from September 02, 2019 — Experience from July 29, 2019
Pierre-Yves
I bought this amplifier for a pair of Elipson Prestige 4i speakers, replacing an old but respectable JVC JA-S7 that will go with another pair of more "vintage" speakers. This Advance is the most powerful integrated amplifier in the brand's lineup, with 2x125W / 8 ohms of power. More than enough to drive just about any type of speaker, even the most demanding ones. Paired with the Elipsons, it proves effective, dynamic, and capable of taking advantage of the two 21cm woofers equipping these French speakers. I noticed no background noise, except on the input where I connected my AKAI GX625. After a month of use, here are my quick observations:
Strengths:
- Ample inputs: 7 analog, 1 phono, 1 direct USB, 1 PC USB, 2 coaxial, 1 optical. Very much appreciated.
- REC output for connecting any type of recorder: Minidisc, DAT, Reel to Reel... Worth noting in 2019, as these outputs are unfortunately becoming rare.
- Aesthetics and build quality
- The VU meters - magnificent!
- Powerful output
Weaknesses:
- The multifunction knob: So impractical that the remote is indispensable...
- The faceplate scratches easily (I made micro-scratches while cleaning it with a soft cloth - how is that possible?)
- The remote, and thus the faceplate, attracts grime: fingerprints, dust, dog nose prints, you name it... But I admit it's beautiful!
In conclusion: A very good amplifier. In my opinion, it's hard to find better at this price point with equal power, unless you turn to vintage gear. An efficient, well-built (dual power supply, dual mono circuit...), powerful, and attractive amp... It has it all! Too bad it's being discontinued by Advance, but take advantage while you can!
Comment from August 28, 2019 — Experience from August 07, 2019