Small amp recommendations

IvanDobskey · 22 Aug 2023 at 10:10

I currently have an audiolab M-one to power my bookshelf speakers and headphones. An expensive mistake really as I get all sorts of buzzing and picking up of radio stations while using it. So I have had enough and want to replace it.

Looking for a small, cheap amp that just does the job. Doesn't have to be particularly powerful. For use with gaming and a bit of light music use.

IvanDobskey · 22 Aug 2023 at 10:58

siumatfung said:
ifi zen v2 otherwise a focusrite scarlette as a cheaper alternative

Is the zen V2 up to powering bookshelf speakers?

IvanDobskey · 22 Aug 2023 at 11:11

siumatfung said:
Which speakers do you have?

I have a pair of Q acoustics 2020i bookshelf speakers. I don't need them to be particularly loud though.

IvanDobskey · 22 Aug 2023 at 11:21

Thanks will take a look.

Was also looking at the SMSL AD18. Anyone know much about this?

IvanDobskey · 22 Aug 2023 at 11:44

Or maybe the topping mx3?

I see this can be had for about £118

IvanDobskey · 22 Aug 2023 at 13:30

mattyfez said:
Define cheap?

I have a tangent ampster 2 mini amp, great little bit of kit and great value at £160

Tangent Ampster BT II

Discover the Tangent Ampster BT II, a compact and powerful amplifier boasting top-tier sound quality and the latest Bluetooth technology. Its versatile connectivity and sleek design make it a perfect fit for any audio setup, effortlessly blending style with performance.

www.tangent-audio.com

Looks nice, but no headphone socket

IvanDobskey · 23 Aug 2023 at 12:13

Ordered a topping mx3 for £117

Hoping it'll be adequate

IvanDobskey · 25 Aug 2023 at 10:57

Just got the amp all hooked up. Have to say I'm blown away by this thing for the money. Drives my 2020i's perfectly and headphone amp sounds good. Can't believe how tiny it is

Only negative is the remote feels the quality of something that dropped out of a Christmas cracker.

IvanDobskey · 18 Sep 2023 at 09:37

mrk said:
What model remote does the MX3 come with? I bought the MX3s the other day and that comes with the RC13A which I think is rather good quality, especially when compared to the NAD amp-3 remote that comes with a £700 amp

Looks to be a much better remote with the mx3s. Mine is super flimsy, it actually flexes slightly when you hold it and push the off button

IvanDobskey · 18 Sep 2023 at 10:11

mrk said:
Interesting, I guess they changed the plastic thickness or something in the A revision

I've had milk cartons with thicker plastic than this remote

IvanDobskey · 18 Sep 2023 at 10:59

I liked the look of the Loxjie too. Couldn't find one easily available for a good price though.

IvanDobskey · 18 Sep 2023 at 11:09

I was trying to get something as cheap as possible, preferably around £100. Otherwise I would have been considering the mx3s and the Loxjie.

Wondering how much better the mx3s is than the mx3.