Argon Audio SA2 Review – Best Compact Stereo Amplifier for Audiophiles
Hype Level
Argon SA1 MK2 € 329.-
Hype
- Sound Quality: Tight bass, crystal-clear mids, and crisp high frequencies, making it a standout for audiophiles and casual listeners.
- Connectivity: HDMI ARC for TV connection and Bluetooth 5.0 make it a versatile and modern piece of audio equipment.
- Design: Minimalist Scandinavian design, with brushed aluminum finish, is as much a statement piece as a functional amp.
- Remote Control: Control volume, input selection, and other functions, managing your listening experience remotely.
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- Quick Start Guide: Connection should be more detailed for users less familiar with audio setup.
- Input Source: Clearer indication of the selected input source could be helpful.
Summary
The Argon Audio SA1 MK2 is a powerful and stylish amplifier that excels in both sound quality and modern features. It offers a pristine listening experience with detailed sound across all frequencies, perfect for audiophiles and music lovers alike. Its sleek Scandinavian design and intuitive features like HDMI ARC and Bluetooth 5.0 make it a great choice for both music and home theater setups. While it could benefit from a more detailed quick-start guide and a clearer input indication, these minor flaws don’t overshadow its impressive performance. This amp is a solid investment for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience.
F orget tangled wires and clunky old receivers. The Argon Audio SA1 MK2 isn’t just an amplifier—it’s a statement. A statement that says you demand pristine sound, crave modern convenience, and are keen for minimalist Scandinavian design. As someone who personally upgraded my setup—replacing an aging MX100 mixing console with the SA1 MK2 to power my Stanton turntable and KRK Rokit 5 studio active speaker—I’ve been blown away by the transformation this amp has brought to my listening experience. Here’s my hands-on take on what makes the SA1 MK2 a standout piece of audio equipment.
Sonic Purity Unleashed
From the first spin of my vinyl collection, the SA1 MK2’s sound quality left me in awe – the sound quality is breathtaking. The SA1’s Class D amplification delivers a clean, dynamic, and remarkably detailed sonic landscape. My vinyl collection has never sounded better. The bass response is tight and punchy, providing a solid foundation for any genre. Mids are crystal clear, allowing vocals and instruments to shine with stunning clarity. And the high frequencies? Crisp, airy, and never harsh, adding a touch of brilliance without any unwanted sibilance. Whether I’m lost in the intricate guitar work of a classic rock anthem or immersed in the delicate nuances of a jazz quartet, the SA1 faithfully reproduces every sonic detail. It’s the kind of sound quality that makes you rediscover your music collection all over again.
A Symphony of Features
The SA2 isn’t just about raw power; it’s a masterclass in modern connectivity. Let’s break down the impressive feature set:
- HDMI ARC for Seamless TV Integration: This is a game-changer for those who want a single system for both music and movies. The HDMI ARC connection allows you to easily connect the SA1 MK2 to your TV, delivering powerful and immersive sound for your favorite films and shows. Say goodbye to tinny TV speakers and hello to cinematic audio.
- Bluetooth 5.0 (aptX HD and AAC) Connectivity for Ultimate Convenience: For those moments when you just want to quickly stream something from your phone, Bluetooth connectivity is there. It’s quick, reliable, and convenient.
- Dedicated Phono Input: This is crucial for vinyl enthusiasts like myself. The dedicated phono input ensures proper impedance matching for your turntable, resulting in optimal sound quality from your vinyl records. No need for an external phono preamp here!
- Optical and Analog Inputs: The SA1 MK2 also caters to traditional wired connections with optical and analog inputs, providing flexibility for connecting other audio sources.
- Subwoofer Output: For those who crave even deeper bass, the dedicated subwoofer output allows you to connect a powered subwoofer and take your low-end to the next level.
- Sleek Scandinavian Design: The SA1 MK2 isn’t just a powerful performer; it’s a work of art. The minimalist Scandinavian design with its brushed aluminum finish and clean lines makes it a stylish addition to any listening space. It’s the kind of amp you’ll be proud to display.
- Convenient Remote Control: The included remote provides convenient control over volume, input selection, and other functions, allowing you to manage your listening experience from the comfort of your couch.
A Few Minor Improvement: While the SA1 MK2 is incredibly user-friendly overall, a more detailed quick-start guide would be beneficial for those less familiar with audio setups. Also, a clearer visual indication of the selected input on the unit itself would be a welcome improvement. These are minor quibbles, however, and don’t impact significantly from the overall experience.
Conclusion
Based on my firsthand experience, the Argon Audio SA1 MK2 is a triumph of modern Hi-Fi design. It combines exceptional sound quality, a wealth of modern features, and stunning design into a single, compelling package. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile looking to upgrade your system or a tech-savvy music lover seeking a versatile and stylish amplifier, the SA1 is an investment you won’t regret. It has redefined how I enjoy music, movies, and vinyl in my own home.
Ready to transform your listening experience? Visit the Argon Audio website to learn more and make it yours today. Want to hear what other audiophiles are saying? Join the conversation in the comments below! Share your thoughts on the SA1 MK2 or ask any questions you might have. We’re eager to hear from you.
Pro Tip: Experiment with different speaker placements and room acoustics to fine-tune the sound to your liking. The SA1’s clean power delivery will reward you with a truly immersive listening experience. When on the go, consider using the Fiio Snowsky Retro Nano to keep the same audio experience outside of your home.
Technical Terms
Sibilance is the harsh sounds produced by certain consonants, such as S, T and Z in vocal recording. Technically speaking, the sounds produced by these letters generate disproportionate dynamics in the 2kHz to 8kHz frequency range, where our hearing is most sensitive. Sibilance pops up when you record or amplify vocals with a mic, resulting in piercing and harsh vocals and making the sound unpleasant.
Class D audio amplifier is a type of amplifier that converts audio signals into pulses (on and off) to drive speakers. Class D amplifiers are highly efficient, meaning they use less power and produce less heat compared to traditional amplifiers. This makes them compact and perfect for modern audio devices without sacrificing sound quality.
Think of it like a smart light dimmer: instead of staying on all the time, it rapidly switches on and off to deliver just the right amount of energy needed for clear, powerful sound!
Technical Characteristics
| Power Output | 2 x 50W (8 Ohms) / 2 x 100W (4 Ohms) |
| Frequency Response | 3-60,000 Hz |
| Amplifier Technology | Class D |
| Distortion (THD) | <0.03% (20-20,000 Hz) |
| Wireless Connectivity | Bluetooth 5.0 (aptX HD and AAC) |
| Input | HDMI ARC Optical Digital (supports up to 24-bit/192kHz) Stereo Line-in (Analog RCA) Turntable (MM) |
| DAC | 32-bit ESS Sabre DAC in fully balanced mode |
| Outputs | Pre-out (for subwoofer or external amplification) |
| Dimensions | 22 x 6.3 x 25.2 cm |
| Weight | 2.2 kg |
| Power Supplies | Separate power supplies for analog and digital circuits (6 in total) |
| Standby Power Consumption | <0.5 watts |
These numbers don’t just look good on paper—they translate into real-world performance you can feel.
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