The Musical Fidelity A1 integrated amplifier is legendary in the world of Hi-Fi, akin to the Rega Brio, Sugden A28, or Naim Nait 1. It has undoubtedly contributed to the current success of the manufacturer.
Released in its first version in 1988, it quickly became a reference in integrated amplifiers for several major reasons: its ability to drive difficult speakers, its musicality, and its timbre quality due to its pure Class A operation.
MUSICAL FIDELITY A1: FRONT PANEL AND CONNECTIONS
The A1's design was unique in 1988, and it remains so in 2023! The casing is aluminum. The top resembles a radiator, and that's because it is one! It is directly coupled to an aluminum bar to which the power transistors are attached. These transistors operate in pure Class A, generating 100% thermal dissipation. I remember that on the original version, after several hours of operation at high volume, you could cook an egg on the A1!
The front panel features a rotary volume knob, a source selector, the power switch, and a "Direct/Normal" selector. This switch is one of the notable modifications. It allows bypassing the gain stage before the volume control, reducing the gain by about 10 dB. This feature is particularly beneficial when working with modern digital sources with high output levels. It allows precise adjustment of the volume knob range and adapts to high-efficiency speakers.
On the back of the amplifier, there are 5 auxiliary inputs, a phono input (with MM/MC selector), and a Tape input. Additionally, there is a Tape Out output and a Pre-Out output.
The single stereo speaker output allows for banana plug connections. Unlike the original version, the new A1 is equipped with an IEC power socket, allowing for the replacement of the cable with a higher-performing model.
MUSICAL FIDELITY A1: TECHNOLOGY
Today in 2023, for the first time since its initial release, the manufacturer has retained all the original specifications. The design and circuits are the same as the 1988 version.
However, there is a higher-end and more efficient transformer that incorporates more effective "dual mono split rail" windings. The amplification stages are powered by completely independent left and right power supplies for better power management. The 2023 A1 also shows a significant increase in filtering capacity. It has gone from 4 to 8, which reduces ripple and noise. It is also noted that the sensitive components have been considerably improved in terms of precision, tolerance, and noise. The low-noise preamplifier circuit is identical to the original 1988 model but greatly benefits from the new power supplies. The manufacturer uses only the highest quality components, which is crucial for such a function.
The A1 is therefore built around a fully discrete and symmetrical "Class A" topology. It offers 25 W of power per channel in pure Class A with an 8-ohm load. It can deliver an output current of 25 A!
It also utilizes dynamic Class A. If the permanent current of Class A is exceeded, it will smoothly "slide" into Class B operation, temporarily allowing the extra current needed.
The volume potentiometer has been replaced with an ALPS RK series potentiometer. This high-quality component ensures superior performance and increased precision. Moreover, the potentiometer is now motorized, allowing you to adjust the volume with the new provided remote control.
MUSICAL FIDELITY A1: PHONO STAGE
The A1 integrated amplifier uses a fully discrete component phono stage. The preamplification is low noise and is compatible with low-output MC and MM cartridges. A low-noise current-to-voltage conversion stage is used for additional amplification and RIAA equalization. The input impedance matching for MC cartridges is automatic.
MUSICAL FIDELITY A1: TEST AND LISTENING
I owned a Musical Fidelity A1 in the early '90s. At that time, I paired it with Rogers LS5/9 speakers. I have excellent memories of it, and I recall an unparalleled quality/price/music ratio at that time.
The Musical Fidelity A1 is surprising in its ability to drive speakers with ease. Of course, don't expect it to power a too high-end speaker or one with too low efficiency. But 2-way or 3-way column speakers with efficiency above 88 dB suit it perfectly. For me, the ideal is a high-quality 2-way speaker in a 20 m² room. Connected to a good source, this A1 integrated amplifier works wonders in terms of articulation, dynamics, and nuance. Its softness and fluidity are reminiscent of tube integrateds in triode operation. The heat dissipated by the radiator is also very evocative.
The sound reproduction shows no aggression or harshness. The dynamics are surprising, and the control of the lower spectrum is remarkable. The midrange is present with the transparency and substance typical of Class A amplifiers. The high spectrum is detailed without being overemphasized. It perfectly integrates with the midrange.
As the manufacturer notes: "The A1 has a secret. This secret is simple: it makes music," and that's precisely what many modern electronics lack today.
Our favorite!
FranckPower: 25 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms
Voltage: 42.5 Volts peak-to-peak
Current: 25 amperes peak-to-peak
Damping factor: 150
Gain (max volume): 32 dB (direct mode), 42 dB (normal mode)
Signal-to-noise ratio: 82 dB
Channel separation: 85 dB
Frequency response: + 0, -1 dB, 10 Hz to 40 kHz
Line-level sensitivity: 300 mV rms nominal, 8 V rms max.
Line-level input impedance: 25k Ohms
Band output impedance: 220 Ohms
Pre-out impedance: 100 Ohms
Phono input: MM and MC
Phono RIAA precision: +/- 1dB
MM: 40 dB, 50 k-ohms, 100 pF
MC: 60 dB, 1k
Tape output: 1
Pre-output: 1
Speaker outputs: 4 mm bananas
Dimensions: 440 x 68.3 x 283.3 mm
Weight: 10.5 kg
Customer reviews
Bon appétit !
Aussi bien relié à des Wharfedale Denton 85 qu'aux petites colonnes Totem Arro c'est un ampli à la musicalité contagieuse et ce qui est le plus surprenant c'est sa vélocité. On entend la matière, Olé de Coltrane devient plus fluide, Boards Of Canada devient plus organique et Human Impact devient plus féroce. Un régal !
Un grand merci à toute l'équipe pour les conseils et la livraison dans les temps
A1 exceptional Class A
I have several amplifiers but something was always missing. Having used this musical fidelity A1 amplifier for over a month, I feel confident to write that the sound is exceptionally sweet, smooth, powerfully detailed and balanced, the bass is real! compared to the m6si which is also an exceptional amplifier by musical fidelity, I found the A1 more tonally warm, focused and very forgiving of poor recordings or vinyl pressing. If you love music and want your family and friends to enjoy your sound and quit fussing over audiophile issues this is the answer.
My set up is a living room of about 30m3 that includes, Speakers focal aria 948, acoustic signature turntable, ortofon black quintet s, blusound node. Thank you Maplatine for your service and discount. Am very happy to have this amplifier as part of my collection. One love.