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The Tangent Ampster TV II is a compact amplifier designed to enhance TV sound. It delivers 2 × 50 watts at 4 ohms and features an HDMI ARC input, allowing direct connection to a television. This model offers an alternative to soundbars by enabling the use of existing passive speakers in a home audio system.
The Tangent Ampster TV II stands out first and foremost for its particularly compact dimensions. Measuring 195 mm in width and depth and only 70 mm in height, the device takes up barely more space than a CD laid flat. This miniaturization does not compromise build quality: the all-metal chassis exudes sturdiness, while the speaker terminals—surprisingly robust for this price range—demonstrate careful attention to essential details.
The Class D amplification delivers 50 watts per channel at 4 ohms, a power output that impressively doubles compared to an 8-ohm load. This feature, rare in this price segment, ensures excellent speaker control and exemplary stability, even with variable impedance loads. The built-in 24-bit/192 kHz digital-to-analog converter guarantees optimal processing of digital signals from the HDMI interface.
The minimalist design extends to the user interface: a single small LED indicates the device’s status (white when operating, red in standby), avoiding any visual clutter in your home theater environment. The integrated 100-240V power supply eliminates the need for a bulky external transformer, while maintaining standby consumption below 0.5 watts, in line with the strictest European standards.
The Ampster TV II adopts a radically different connection philosophy from its competitors. Unlike traditional amplifiers that multiply inputs, Tangent has opted for simplicity with a single physical input: an HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) connection. This decision may seem restrictive at first, but it perfectly matches the modern use of audiovisual systems where the TV serves as the central hub.
The HDMI ARC implementation is particularly well executed. The amplifier turns on automatically when the TV is powered up and switches off when you put it in standby. Volume control is handled directly from the TV remote, creating seamless integration that will appeal to users seeking simplicity. Audio synchronization remains perfect in all circumstances, avoiding frustrating delays between picture and sound.
Beyond HDMI, the Ampster TV II features a Bluetooth 5.0 receiver compatible with aptX HD. This feature allows you to stream music from a smartphone or tablet with audio quality superior to standard Bluetooth codecs. The amplifier automatically wakes from standby as soon as a Bluetooth connection is established, adding a welcome layer of convenience. The large external Bluetooth antenna, though not particularly elegant, ensures a stable connection even at a considerable distance.
A subwoofer output rounds out the package, with a low-pass filter set at 200 Hz and a slope of 12 dB per octave. This feature makes it easy to add a subwoofer to reinforce low frequencies, potentially transforming a 2.0 system into a more immersive 2.1 setup for action movies or concerts.
In real-world use, the Ampster TV II demonstrates sound qualities that far exceed what one might expect from a device at this price point. Dialogue benefits from remarkable clarity and presence, making it easy to follow conversations even in complex scenes mixing sound effects and music. The power reserve proves sufficient to handle the dynamic peaks of modern soundtracks without audible compression.
Soundstage reproduction also deserves praise. Although it is a stereo amplifier, the soundstage it creates offers surprising width and depth. Panoramic effects in action movies retain their impact, while the more subtle soundscapes of dramas or documentaries gain in realism. This ability to create a coherent and engaging sound space clearly sets the Ampster TV II apart from soundbars in the same price segment.
The built-in equalizer allows for precise adjustment of bass frequencies: ±8 dB in 2 dB steps at 120 Hz, with a turnover point above 1 kHz. This feature is particularly useful for adapting the amplifier’s response to your room’s acoustics or your speakers’ characteristics.
The amplifier has only an HDMI ARC input and Bluetooth connectivity. For other sources, you’ll need to either connect them to your TV (which will transmit the sound via HDMI ARC) or use Bluetooth if the source supports it. There are no additional analog or optical inputs.
The Ampster TV II uses standard HDMI ARC technology, which supports stereo PCM audio up to 48 kHz. eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) would allow for more advanced audio formats, but for stereo use, standard ARC is perfectly sufficient and ensures maximum compatibility with all recent TVs.
The amplifier can power most bookshelf or compact floorstanding speakers with an impedance between 4 and 8 ohms. With its ability to double its power at 4 ohms, it handles demanding speakers particularly well. Models with medium to high sensitivity (85 dB and above) are recommended to fully exploit its capabilities.
The amplifier automatically switches off after 15 minutes of inactivity (no audio signal). This function cannot be disabled, which may be inconvenient for certain specific uses such as with a computer. For typical TV use, this feature is generally seamless and appreciated.
The Ampster TV II is a stereo 2.0 amplifier (or 2.1 with a subwoofer). It cannot decode multichannel surround formats. For a full home theater setup, you would need a multichannel AV amplifier. The Ampster TV II excels at delivering high-quality stereo sound for TV and music.
Olivier
Very good sound but complicated to program the Sony TV.
I think it's not very compatible with Sony TVs.
Comment from 17 April 2024 — Experience from 6 April 2024
