Pack Micromega M-Amp Solo Neat + Streamer Escape M1 Air USB

This bundle combines the understated elegance and musicality of the Micromega M-Amp Solo Neat integrated amplifier with the versatility of the Escape M1 Air USB streaming module. Designed as a true ecosystem, this duo transforms a simple amplifier into a connected system capable of handling all your sources: vinyl, local digital files and high-resolution streaming services. A modular, elegant and lasting approach that pairs Micromega's French expertise with the streaming know-how of Belgian brand Escape.

The M-Amp Solo Neat: French restraint in service of music

Direct heir to the M-One, the M-Amp Solo retains the musicality and performance that built Micromega's reputation, while streamlining its architecture around a distinctive 35 x 35 cm square chassis. In this Neat version, the aluminium enclosure with softened edges does without the plexiglass plate and adopts a fully solid finish, more discreet and more minimalist. A pared-down aesthetic that fits unobtrusively into any interior.

Ergonomics are deliberately pared down: a large central knob handles volume, source selection through successive presses, and standby with a long press. Two rows of white LEDs indicate output level and active source. Understated, legible and remarkably effective.

On the technical side, amplification is traditional Class AB, fed by a generous linear toroidal transformer — Micromega made the deliberate choice to avoid switching power supplies in order to prioritise musicality, transparency and silent operation. Rated power is 2 x 85 W into 8 ohms and 2 x 105 W into 4 ohms, with current reserves that allow it to drive fine bookshelf or floorstanding speakers.

The digital section relies on the excellent ESS ES9280AQ PRO converter. Connectivity is comprehensive: MM phono input (47 kΩ, compatible with some high-output MC cartridges), RCA Line input, optical, coaxial and USB-B digital inputs, Sub-Out (320 Hz), pre-out, and a 6.35 mm headphone jack on the front panel. The high-quality speaker terminals accept both banana plugs and spade connectors.

The Escape M1 Air USB: high-resolution streaming, fully integrated

This is where the magic happens. The M-Amp Solo Neat features a dedicated slot designed to host the Escape M1 Air USB streaming module. Once installed, the amplifier becomes a fully connected device, with no visible cables and no extra box on your shelf. The module handles high-resolution audio streams up to 192 kHz / 24-bit and leaves digital-to-analogue conversion to the amplifier's internal ESS DAC, ensuring a short and coherent signal chain.

In terms of protocols, the M1 Air USB includes:

• Chromecast built-in and AirPlay 2 for native streaming from iOS and Android
• Roon Ready for users of the renowned music management software
• Spotify Connect for direct access to the service
• Bluetooth 5.0 for occasional mobile sources
• Wi-Fi multiroom compatibility via Google Home

You can access Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, Qobuz, internet radio via Airable and your podcasts, all from your smartphone or tablet. Setup takes only a few minutes via iOS or the Google Home app.

A synergy built to last

This modular architecture is one of the bundle's greatest strengths. The M-Amp Solo Neat doesn't lock an ageing streamer inside its chassis: it hosts an upgradable module that can be updated or replaced over the years without touching the amplification stage. A smart and durable answer to a problem audiophiles know all too well: watching a high-end system fall behind the rapid evolution of streaming standards.

Sound: music first

No tone controls, no artifice: the M-Amp Solo Neat delivers music as it is. The presentation is neutral, precise and transparent, prioritising timbre and finesse over excessive warmth. The soundstage is wide, with a striking sense of depth that draws you in. Bass is articulate and well defined, the midrange realistic, the treble silky yet detailed. With the M1 Air USB integrated, this musical signature extends naturally to all your digital sources, without any drop in quality.

The amplifier: French craftsmanship at its finest

From electronic design to industrial design, every step of the M-Amp Solo's development took place in France, in collaboration with CC LAB for design and Eiffage for manufacturing. Final assembly is carried out in the Landes region, at La Manufacture du Son, where each unit is hand-wired, tested and listened to. In a price range where most competitors have long since relocated to Asia, this is a rare commitment worth highlighting.

The Escape M1 Air module, for its part, is developed by Belgian brand Escape, a recognised specialist in integrated high-resolution audio streaming. A European collaboration that brings together the best of two distinct kinds of expertise.

A turnkey, connected, musical system — highly recommended.