Kristy RamptonA Stereo Amplifier is one of the more popular ways of improving the quality of sound that is coming from a speaker system. Whether you want to improve the sound coming from your TV, CD, or DVD system, a stereo amplifier will make all the difference. Bad quality sound is as beneficial as watching a movie on mute. You want to experience the true cinematic/concert effects that every person deserves!
There are a few things you will want to consider when choosing the best Stereo Amplifier, and it’s important to remember that an amplifier is the center of your home theatre. What kind of power do you want to get out of your amplifier? What are the input and output controls like?
We are here to help you find the best Stereo Amplifier based on high-quality performance. This review analyzes the best Stereo Amplifiers on the market based on quality, customer satisfaction, and implementation.
If you want better sound quality at home or in the office than the answer is: you need a Stereo Amplifier. Stereo Amplifiers, for the most part, come in one size and the standard color of black or silver. The price varies based on the size of the amplifier.
Best Stereo Amplifier: Buying Guide
There’s a lot to cover when it comes to buying a Stereo Amplifier. We cover everything here for you.
How to Choose a Stereo Amplifier
When deciding on the right Stereo Amplifier for your TV, there are a few things you will want to take into consideration. What do you want to get out of your Stereo Amplifier? You don’t just want to choose the most expensive one you can find because you think it will be the best? You want to make sure it offers everything you want, especially high-quality sound.
Whether you are looking for a heavy-duty amp, a portable amp, one with lots of power and Bluetooth connectivity, you have a few different options to choose from. An amplifier is what increases the power of sound due to the electrical current that reaches your speakers.
The trick with choosing a high-quality amplifier is the wattage. The higher the wattage usually means the better the sound quality. One should look for more watts in their amplifier than in their speakers. In order to get the best sound quality, you will want to look for an amplifier with a direct connection to your receiver.
This makes a world of difference when comparing sound quality. Make sure the stereo amplifier is incredibly constructed to eliminate vibration and to maximize the electrical currents going through your amp.
Choosing an amp that comes with a remote will help you control your stereo amplifier better. You will be able to turn your amplifier on and off after you are done using it. This will help with the longevity of your amplifier.
Look for an amp with multiple input connections for versatility. This will allow you to connect a bunch of different devices to it without interfering with the quality of sound. Also, it is very handy to be able to connect your phone and other devices with an aux cord.
If you want to learn a bit more about stereo amplifiers, than this short video covers three interesting tips about stereo amplifiers for beginners.
What Stereo Amplifier Should You Look For?
This is the most important piece of the puzzle. Your stereo amplifier choice is determinant on what is compatible with your TV and what sound quality you want.. Do you want a minor sound change, or do you want to supercharge your sound? Depending on the different power the amp offers, this will make a huge difference in sound quality.
You will want to find a stereo amplifier that will deliver over twice the speakers program and power rating. Allow for some extra headroom with your amp to ensure you are getting a clear sound and your speakers are picking up on the signal.
This list provides three great options for choosing either the best of the best, a portable option, or the best all-around Stereo Amplifier. Figure out the functions and features that are important to have. This will give you a better idea when you are trying to decide on the right amp. Weigh out the pros and cons and decide based on that.
- Best All-Around – Onkyo M-5010
The Onkyo M-5010 Stereo Amplifier is an amazing all-around amplifier. If you’re looking for the best all-around amplifier that is of high quality and is reasonably priced; then this is a great option.
Specifications
- W x H x D → 17 1/8″ x 5 1/2″ x 12 1/4″ (435 x 139 x 311 mm)
- Weight → 17.6 pounds
- 8 ohm → 75 W/Ch (1 kHz, 0.08%, 2 Channels Driven, FTC)
- 4 ohm → 65W/Ch (1 kHz, 0.08%, 2 Channels Driven, FTC)
- Power Consumption → 160 W in action
Key Features
- Three-Stage Inverted Darlington Circuitry
- Two Large 10,000 microfarad Capacitors
- Daisy-Chain capable for Bi-Amping or Multi-Zone Audio
- All Discrete Output Stage Circuit
- High-Current, Low-Impedance Drive
- Multi-Zone Audio Capability
Onkyo M-5010 2-Channel Amplifier Review
This stereo amplifier is designed to be the one and only amp stereo receiver with incredible sound amplification. This stereo amplifier offers a simple setup process for your home speakers. This specific amplifier features 8 ohms with .08 total harmonic distortion and has two 75-watt RMS channels.
This amp is designed to provide fast-changing dynamics when listening to different movies and CD soundtracks. You will notice with the Onkyo M-5010 it has incredible sound sensitivity, which will deliver dynamic sounds due to its three-stage inverted Darlington Circuitry.
This stereo amplifier is capable of handling multiple zone audios with other Onkyo receivers. Since this stereo amplifier is built with aluminum faceplate, you will notice the extra vibration resistance.
For anyone looking for an easy to setup amp that has no tonal controls or balance controls, then the Onkyo M-5010 Stereo Amplifier is a great choice. You will not be disappointed with the High-Current, Low-Impedance Drive or the Multi-Zone Audio Capability which are two important features for any amplifier.
Also to note, this amplifier runs very quietly when turned on. You will not even notice it there besides the improvement in the sound coming from your speakers. The design is minimalistic and will fit in with any modern or simplistic decor. For the value of this piece of equipment and the outcome it presents, I would highly recommend checking this stereo amplifier out.
Pros
- High-quality sound display
- Logical operation
- Affordable
- Amazing sound quality to play games and watch movies
- Great for its value
- Auto Standby On/Off Switch
- WRAT (Wide Range Amplifier Technology)
- Simplistic setup
Cons
- Lacks balance
- Lacks tonal controls
- Best Portable – Fosi Audio Class D
The Fosie Audio Mini Amplifier with Bluetooth, treble control and an auxiliary selector is an amazing stereo amplifier based on convenience and performance.
If you are looking for an affordable and portable stereo amplifier that still provides excellent sound quality, is practical and powerful, extremely user-friendly, has base control and is great for small spaces; then this is a great option. Discover a more intense sound like never before and be able to pack this machine up and take it wherever you want.
Specifications
- L x W x H → L120*W117. 5*H36MM
- Bare Weight → 0.5 KG
- Working Voltage → DC12-24V
- Max Power Output → 50W*2+100W
- Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz(±3dB)
Key Features
- Base Control
- Treble Control
- Bluetooth
- Bluetooth and Auxiliary selector
- Portable and good for small spaces
Fosi Audio 2 Channel Class D Mini Hi-Fi Amplifier Review
This stereo amplifier provides great features and fulfillment for the price. Not only is it light, but it is extremely powerful for its size.
In terms of user-friendly, connectivity, power, and price the Fosi Audio Mini Amplifier is one of the leading stereo amplifiers on the market. The easy setup and user-friendly controls will have you listening to a better sound in minutes.
This stereo amplifier is a great addition to any TV, with its Bluetooth connection range and sub outputs. The only downfall with this stereo amplifier is that it is smaller than average and is designed for a smaller space. Depending on whether you have a small or large space, you might want to evaluate your options and make sure that this will be the right option depending on the size of your area.
Pros
- Amazing sound quality
- Sub outputs
- Affordable
- User-friendly
- Easy to set up and move around
- Great value for its price
- Long Bluetooth connection range
- Practical
- Powerful
Cons
- Small and designed for a smaller space
- Premium Pick – Yamaha A-S301BL
This Yamaha A-S301BL stereo amplifier is one of the best high-end stereo amplifiers you can buy based on sound performance.
Although it is rather pricey, you get what you pay for. The fine balance, treble, and bass adjustments, good input selections, and pure direct mode to ensure greater sound quality is what gives this stereo amplifier the top spot for being a great choice for a high-end amplifier.
This specific Yamaha A-S301BL stereo amplifier is a little pricey but it is a heavy-duty amplifier built to last.
Specifications
- H x W x D → 151 x 435 x 387 mm
- Weight → 8.98 kg
- Auto Standby (8 Hours)
- Digital coax and TOSLINK optical input
- Max Power Output → 60 W x 2-ch (20 Hz – 20 kHz)
Key Features
- Continuous loudness control
- Simple, yet modern and sophisticated design
- Pure Direct Mode To Ensure Greater Sound Quality
Yamaha A-S301BL Natural Sound Integrated Stereo Amplifier Review
Not to mention the continuous loudness control is an important feature that makes this amplifier a good one to invest in. The max power output is high, which is beneficial for those of you who enjoy loud and quality sound. The large range of features of this stereo amplifier is one reason why many people go out and buy it.
The warmth of the sound that comes out of the Yamaha A-S301BL is pleasant and easy to listen to. You can talk over the sound and the amplifier is not a nuisance and does not prevent you from turning down the speakers.
There are so many features and benefits with this stereo amplifier and therefore it is worth the price and reason to invest in. If you want lots of control options, a clean and heavy-duty piece of sound equipment, good input selections and a subwoofer, then this is a stereo amplifier that is needed in your home theatre.
Pros
- Lots of different features
- A heavy-duty presentation
- Fine Balance
- Bold & Full-bodied
- Good input selections
- Treble & Bass Adjustments
- Lightweight
- Subwoofer out
Cons
- Pricey
- Not as much enthusiasm
FAQ
What Are Some Of The Most Important Features Your Stereo Amplifier Should Have?
Some of the most important features to have on your stereo amplifier would be good input connections, a good signal to noise ratio, lots of power, and total harmonic distortion to measure how much the amp affects the sound output.
Good input connections mean that you have a wide range of inputs to make sure you can connect everything you want to connect. You want to have enough inputs to be able to connect iPods and whatever else.
The power outage is basically telling you how much power you can pump out or how loud your sound can go. If you want loud music, you need to have a good power outage. The signal to noise ratio or SNR is the background noise that everyone hears and can’t avoid. With total harmonic distortion, this makes sure that you hear as much of the music and sound as possible without noises coming from inside the equipment.
How Long Do Stereo Amplifiers Last?
Stereo Amplifiers are designed to last the test of time, which also depends on how often you use it. They are built to last between 10-20 years, and many people who have them can agree with this number.
It really depends on how you treat your stereo amplifier and how often you are using it. If you take good care of it, it should last you for many more years than that.
How Do You Connect A Car Stereo Amplifier?
In order to connect a car amplifier, I would recommend watching this video as it can be a little complex. This video teaches you an easy way to connect a stereo amplifier.
Do Stereo Amplifiers Sound Different?
Whether or not stereo amplifiers sound different is based on the person. Some people believe that all amplifiers are different and you can tell the difference between the sound. Then there are other people who cannot tell the difference.
Again, one with more power will be louder, therefore in comparing loudness; you will notice that one might be louder and more clear than the other.
Will A Stereo Amplifier Actually Make A Difference?
The simple answer is yes, a stereo amplifier will make a huge difference in the sound of your home theatre. If your sound is not that great, try adding a good stereo amplifier and you will immediately recognize the difference. Poor sound is not fun when you are trying to watch a thrilling movie or listen to a good song.
How Do You Test Your Amplifier?
This video is the perfect way to see how you can test your own amplifier and the video will help you go through the necessary steps to make sure you are testing it correctly.
How Do You Repair A Stereo Amplifier?
First things first, you do not want to listen to a stereo amplifier that is not working in full force. If for some reason you need to repair your amplifier, I would recommend checking all the connections to make sure a cord didn’t disconnect. Also, take a look at the fuse and make sure you didn’t blow a fuse.
This could prevent your stereo amplifier from not working properly. If your cable is dirty, this can prevent your amplifier from passing the electricity between the cables. Try cleaning the jacks to make sure this is not the issue. Make sure the amplifier is not plugged into the socket while you are cleaning the jacks.
After you are done dusting it, plug it back in and give it another go. Check the ends of the cords for any damage. If you notice damage or fraying with a cord, you will want to replace that cord.
Do Stereo Amplifiers Need Cleaning?
Just like any other piece of equipment, you will need to disassemble the stereo amplifier and preamp in order to do a deep cleaning of your amp.
Cleaning your stereo amplifier will allow you to figure out issues you might never have thought you had. This will keep your stereo amplifier in good working condition for many years. Remember, what you put into it, you get out of it. Treat your amplifier with love and care so that it will last you a long time.
How do you set up a Stereo Amplifier?
Most, if not all, Stereo Amplifiers come with instructions on how to set them up. If not you will want to make sure none of the cables are connected to electricity. First off, connect the two different plugs on the one side of the audio cable to the right and left outputs for the tape deck, which is on the home stereo. Connect the red plug to the right and the white plug to the left.
By following the instructions above or the instructions that come with your stereo amplifier and watching some videos like this one, you’ll be able to easily set up and connect your amplifier in no time.
