The AV100 from Atoll Electronique is a 3-channel power amplifier designed to bring musicality to home cinema systems. Developed and manufactured in Normandy, this unit delivers 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms thanks to a discrete-component topology and MOS-FET transistors. It is aimed at those who want to entrust amplification of the three front channels (left, center, right) to a dedicated external power amp, in order to relieve their AV receiver and gain in sound quality.
The AV100 is built around two 340 VA toroidal transformers, for a total capacity of 680 VA. This energy reserve feeds a filtering section totaling 44,210 µF of capacitance. These figures may seem generous for an amp of “only” 3 × 100 W, but they reflect Atoll’s intention to offer an oversized power supply able to respond to current demands without faltering.
The output stages use MOS-FET transistors in a symmetrical, fully discrete configuration. This type of transistor is characterized by a very high input impedance and an electrical behavior close to that of tubes, which has earned it a reputation for smoothness and fluidity in the audio world. Atoll’s MOS-FETs operate in class A/B, a compromise between efficiency and sound quality that avoids the excessive heat of pure class A amplifiers.
The 1.3 µs rise time and 5 Hz to 200 kHz bandwidth attest to the speed of the electronics, while the 100 dB signal-to-noise ratio and rated distortion of 0.05% (measured at 10 W, 1 kHz) place the unit squarely within the expected standards for this category.
The AV100 comes in a compact chassis measuring 440 × 291 × 95 mm and weighing 11 kg. The slightly curved, 4 mm brushed aluminum front panel features only the Atoll logo and a status LED. No buttons, no display: the unit focuses on the essentials.
The 1.5 mm steel chassis is topped by a cover and side panels perforated with small ventilation holes arranged in concentric patterns. This aesthetic choice also contributes to the passive cooling of the internal components. The AV100 comes in standard black finish, with a natural aluminum option to match other components.
On the rear panel, there are three RCA inputs (left, center, right), three RCA outputs for possible bi-amping connections, and three pairs of heavy-duty speaker terminals that accept banana plugs. The IEC mains socket allows the original power cord to be replaced if desired. The on/off switch is also located on the rear panel, which means you’ll need to leave the unit in standby if you want automated power-up.
The AV100 sits between the brand’s stereo power amplifiers (such as the AM100 or AM200) and the 5-channel AV500 power amp. Its primary role is to handle the three front channels of a home cinema system: the left and right speakers as well as the center speaker.
In this setup, the AV receiver retains control of the surround channels, rear surrounds, and possibly Atmos speakers. By offloading amplification of the three most heavily used channels from the main unit, you free up its power supply section for audio processing and the remaining channels.
The AV100 can also be used in more atypical configurations: active tri-amping of 3-way speakers, amplification for high-efficiency systems, or simply as a power amp for stereo listening using two of the three channels.
Yes, you just use two of the three channels. The third will remain unused but this does not cause any operational issue. This configuration is suitable if you want a stereo power amplifier while keeping the option of adding a center channel later on.
Operating in class A/B, the unit generates less heat than a pure class A amplifier. The ventilation holes on the top cover and side panels provide sufficient passive cooling under normal operating conditions. It is still advisable to allow some ventilation space around the unit.
The AV receiver must have preamp outputs (pre-outs) for the channels you want to externalize. Connect these outputs to the AV100’s RCA inputs using RCA cables, then connect the front speakers to the AV100’s binding posts instead of those on the AV receiver. Level and distance settings are then adjusted in the main amplifier’s calibration menu.
The AV500 is a 5-channel power amp delivering 85 W per channel into 8 ohms (versus 100 W for the AV100). It is intended for those who want to externalize all five main channels of a 5.1 or larger system. The AV100, with its three slightly more powerful channels, is better suited to setups where only the front soundstage needs to be reinforced.
No, but it does make everyday use easier. Without a trigger, the unit is switched on manually using the rear power switch. For those who leave their system in standby, the absence of a trigger is not a dealbreaker, but it does mean either leaving the AV100 permanently powered or accessing it physically each time you switch on.
The unit supports 4-ohm loads and then delivers 140 W per channel. For speakers that regularly drop below 4 ohms, you should make sure the minimum impedance remains within reasonable limits. The AV100’s heatsinks are not oversized; prolonged use at high volume with very current-hungry speakers can place the unit under strain.
Yes, the AV100’s gain is compatible with that of other Atoll amplifiers (AM and AV series), allowing for well-matched combinations. With components from other brands, a gain mismatch may require level adjustments in the processor or preamp to balance the system.
Damien
Power amplifier that clearly lacks punch, but that's just my personal opinion.
Comment from August 15, 2024 — Experience from April 07, 2024
Lambo Tiana Fabien
I've been using this power amplifier in conjunction with my Marantz 60 DAB DAB radio. The front and center speakers are connected to this Atoll unit. The sound quality has significantly improved, offering excellent spatialization in a 7.1 setup. It's an absolute must-have for enhanced spatialization and to take the load off your main amplifier. Pure bliss. Highly recommended.
Comment from May 18, 2024 — Experience from January 25, 2024
Serge
3x100W amp that weighs 11 kg! As heavy as my Denon 4800 amp, to relieve the 3 central channels, but disappointed by the power—less powerful than the Denon amplification! For the same sound volume in home theater, I have to increase the volume by 5 to 7 dB despite several calibrations!
Comment from April 23, 2024 — Experience from April 07, 2024
