Anticipated integrated amplifier from Musical Fidelity claims to provide superior audio quality at a budget-friendly cost.
New Musical Fidelity B1xi Integrated Amplifier Offers Power, Warm Sound, and Modern Connectivity
The Musical Fidelity B1xi integrated amplifier is now available for purchase, offering a powerful and versatile solution for audiophiles seeking a blend of classic sound warmth and modern convenience.
With a focus on being a well-made, good-sounding product, the B1xi amplifier delivers 60W per channel into 8Ω, 100W into 4Ω, and 140W peak at 2Ω using a fully discrete Class A/B design. This design delivers a warm and dynamic sound similar to a valve amplifier.
The B1xi amplifier features a motor-driven analogue potentiometer for volume control, a carefully tuned moving magnet phono stage, three line-level RCA inputs, a 3.5mm line input, and a pair of variable RCA pre-outputs on the analogue side. Digital connections include HDMI ARC input, optical and coaxial, all supported by the built-in DAC that can handle up to 24-bit/192kHz native files. The amplifier also offers Bluetooth streaming and a 6.3mm headphone jack.
To minimize interference, the preamplifier section and digital input stage of the B1xi amplifier each have their own dedicated linear power supplies. The internal layout of the amplifier is optimized for audio performance.
Compared to the Arcam A5 and Rega Brio Mk7, the B1xi offers higher power output and modern digital connectivity while maintaining a warm tube-like sound. The Arcam A5 has slightly lower power and a cleaner, more neutral sound, while the Rega Brio Mk7 focuses exclusively on analog purity.
The B1xi amplifier undercuts the pricing of its five-star competitors, making it a compelling choice at a competitive price. The amplifier is available in a single black finish for its all-metal construction. The price is around £699 / $879 / €799.
First glimpsed at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show in February, the B1xi aims to maintain the legacy of the original B1 from the 1990s, combining modern digital connectivity with reliability and great sound. For users wanting a powerful, digitally connected amplifier with classic sound warmth and modern convenience, the B1xi is a compelling choice. Those prioritizing pure analog experience or a more neutral signature may lean toward the Rega Brio Mk7 or Arcam A5 respectively.
References: [1] https://www.musicalfidelity.com/news/b1xi-amplifier-introduced [2] https://www.hifiplus.com/articles/musical-fidelity-b1xi-integrated-amplifier/ [3] https://www.stereophile.com/content/musical-fidelity-b1xi-integrated-amplifier [4] https://www.hifinews.co.uk/reviews/review-musical-fidelity-b1xi-integrated-amplifier/ [5] https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/musical-fidelity-b1xi-integrated-amplifier
- The Musical Fidelity B1xi Integrated Amplifier, recently available for purchase, boasts 60W per channel and modern connectivity for audiophiles.
- This new amplifier delivers a warm, dynamic sound reminiscent of a valve amplifier due to its fully discrete Class A/B design.
- The B1xi offers various analog and digital connectivity options, including three line-level RCA inputs, a 3.5mm line input, and a built-in DAC.
- For those seeking a powerful and versatile solution for their audio needs, reviews of the B1xi amplifier have been generally favorable.
- For users prioritizing pure analog experience or a more neutral signature, brands like Arcam and Rega may be a better fit, depending on personal preferences.
- The B1xi undercuts the pricing of its five-star competitors, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious audiophiles.
- Fans of the original B1 from the 1990s are pleased to see its legacy upheld, with the B1xi amplifier showcasing modern digital connectivity alongside reliability and great sound.
- For technology enthusiasts following the latest news in the gadgets and audio industry, these references provide detailed previews and reviews of the Musical Fidelity B1xi Integrated Amplifier.
