Integrated amplifiers — SMSL AS400

The AS400 is an integrated amplifier with built-in DAC and phono stage from SMSL, sharing the AL400's output power specifications with the addition of vinyl playback capability. The AS400 brings SMSL's considered engineering to a space-efficient, feature-complete integrated format.

Key specs that matter

Output power is a substantial 2 x 85W into 8 ohms, rising to 2 x 165W into 4 ohms, matching the AL400. Total harmonic distortion plus noise is an exceptionally low 0.003%, also matching the AL400. At a remarkably compact 210 x 46 x 254mm and just 1.56kg, the AS400 maintains a space-efficient integrated amplifier chassis, somewhat lighter than the AL400.

Sound and use context

Expect surprisingly clean, powerful amplification reflecting the exceptionally low 0.003% distortion figure combined with the substantial 165W-into-4-ohms output, with the added built-in phono stage covering vinyl directly without a separate outboard device.

Pairing

The built-in phono stage covers a turntable directly, and the substantial 165W into 4 ohms output suits a wide variety of loudspeaker loads.

Alternatives

SMSL's own AL400 offers a phono-stage-free alternative for buyers not needing vinyl playback within the same broader catalogue.