Integrated amplifiers — Canor Audio Virtus A3

The Virtus A3 is an integrated amplifier with a built-in DAC and phono stage from Canor Audio, built with rich connectivity and a comprehensive feature set. This model represents Canor Audio's serious current integrated amplifier offering, sitting within the brand's Virtus range alongside the more elaborate Virtus I2.

Position in line

It sits below the Virtus I2 in Canor Audio's Virtus range hierarchy. This positioning below the Virtus I2 suggests the A3 offers capable core engineering at a somewhat more accessible tier than the brand's higher model within this specific product line.

Key specs that matter

Two balanced and two single-ended inputs plus phono are provided. Input sensitivity is 550 mV. Input impedance is 50,000 ohms for both connections. Output power is 100 W into 8 ohms, rising to 150 W into 4 ohms. Gain is 34.5 dBu. Rated bandwidth is 10 Hz to 35 000 Hz. Signal-to-noise exceeds 90 dB with distortion under 0.008% at 1 kHz, 1 W. At 435 x 130 x 460 mm and 18 kg it is a substantial chassis.

Sound and use context

Expect a controlled, feature-rich presentation typical of Canor Audio's engineering approach, with the built-in DAC and phono stage covering digital and vinyl sources without separate outboard units - a comprehensive single-box solution reflecting the brand's characteristic Slovak engineering ambition.

Pairing

The built-in phono stage removes the need for a separate phono preamplifier in a vinyl-based system, and the rich balanced and single-ended connectivity covers most typical source lineups without needing external switching.

Alternatives

Canor Audio's Virtus I2 sits above this model in the brand's Virtus range hierarchy, worth the further investment if this model's already comprehensive connectivity and output still leave ambitions for Canor Audio's higher-tier integrated amplifier. Canor Audio extensive dealer network makes arranging a direct comparison against the higher-tier Virtus I2 practical, helping clarify exactly how much additional output and refinement that model buys for a specific system. A dedicated ground connection between turntable and this amplifier built-in phono stage remains essential for hum-free operation. A dealer visit remains the simplest way to compare current pricing between the Virtus A3 and Virtus I2. A dealer demonstration remains worthwhile before committing to any specific purchase.