Affordable integrated amplifier from Musical Fidelity promises exceptional audio quality
The Musical Fidelity B1xi integrated amplifier, now available for purchase, has been receiving positive reviews for its focus on sound quality and build over modern streaming features. This new model can be seen as a modernized throwback to the original B-Series design from the 1990s, emphasizing pure Class A/B analog amplification with fully discrete transistor circuits.
Key Features and Performance
The B1xi offers a warm, dynamic, and low-noise sound with excellent channel separation and smooth volume control via a motor-driven analog potentiometer. Its preamp stage is praised for low noise, high headroom, and balanced output across volume settings, making it a strong performer at its price point (~$879).
The amplifier delivers solid power: 60 watts into 8 ohms, 100 watts into 4 ohms, and 140 watts into 2 ohms, allowing it to drive even demanding loudspeakers with low noise.
Including a well-tuned MM phono stage, the B1xi supports high-output moving coil cartridges, appealing especially to vinyl enthusiasts because of its clean and high-gain design, eliminating the need for a separate phono preamp.
While it omits Wi-Fi and built-in streaming, it supports hi-res 24-bit/192kHz PCM over coaxial, optical, and HDMI ARC inputs. The digital section is handled on a dedicated DAC board with an ESS9018 chip and has its own linear power supply isolated from analog circuitry to minimize interference and noise.
Design and Build Quality
The unit is robustly built with a full metal chassis and aluminum front panel, focusing on durability and serviceability. The separation of digital and analog circuits and dedicated linear power supplies reflect a design philosophy that prioritizes sound purity and long-term reliability.
The internal layout of the B1xi is optimized for audio performance, using high-quality components throughout its design. The B1xi amplifier is available to buy now in a single black finish.
Pricing and Availability
The Musical Fidelity B1xi integrated amplifier costs £699 / $879 / €799 and is now available for purchase at retailers. With its pricing undercutting the five-star Arcam A5 (£749) and Rega Brio Mk7 (£799), the B1xi offers a compelling option for audiophiles seeking a high-quality, analog-focused amplifier.
In summary, the Musical Fidelity B1xi integrated amplifier is widely praised for offering excellent analog sound quality, powerful and clean amplification, a great phono stage, and smart digital input design, all housed in a durable and serviceable package. It suits listeners who value sound fidelity and classic analog design over wireless streaming conveniences.
[1]: Review 1 [2]: Review 2 [3]: Review 3 [4]: Review 4
- The Musical Fidelity B1xi integrated amplifier, now available for purchase, is lauded for its focus on sound quality and build, offering a warm, dynamic, and low-noise sound with excellent channel separation.
- This new amplifier, which can be seen as a modernized throwback to the original B-Series design from the 1990s, delivers solid power with 60 watts into 8 ohms, 100 watts into 4 ohms, and 140 watts into 2 ohms.
- The B1xi includes a well-tuned MM phono stage, supporting high-output moving coil cartridges, appeal especially to vinyl enthusiasts because of its clean and high-gain design.
- While it omits Wi-Fi and built-in streaming, it supports hi-res 24-bit/192kHz PCM over coaxial, optical, and HDMI ARC inputs, with a dedicated DAC board and linear power supply for minimal interference and noise.
- The unit is robustly built with a full metal chassis and aluminum front panel, focusing on durability and serviceability, and the internal layout is optimized for audio performance with high-quality components.
- The Musical Fidelity B1xi integrated amplifier costs £699 / $879 / €799 and is now available for purchase at retailers, undercutting the five-star Arcam A5 and Rega Brio Mk7 in pricing.
- Reviews for the B1xi praise its smart design, high sound fidelity, and analog focus, making it a compelling option for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality over wireless streaming conveniences.
- With its robust build, smart digital input design, and excellent analog amplification, the B1xi is a gadget tech and audio enthusiasts should keep an eye on, as evidenced by the positive reviews it has been receiving.
