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Ultra-high-end is sweeping the globe – and engineers, unencumbered by cost constraints, are creating true masterpieces. Our new top-tier list of the most impressive audio components is comprised of ultra-expensive power amplifiers – ones that will surprise even seasoned audiophiles. As usual, the ranking is based on current production models – you won't find any concept amplifiers, one-offs, or long-discontinued components here.

Sumiko company has released a new MC-cartridge for vinyl, the Sumiko Oriole. The model is housed in an open-faced, lightweight alloy body, while the motor and magnet system are mounted on a PEEK (polyetheretherketone) generator mounting plate, ensuring stable vibration transfer to the tonearm headshell for further dissipation.

To celebrate its 80th anniversary, JBL has unveiled a limited edition of the L100 Classic 80, a new version of the L100 model first released back in the 1970s. The anniversary design features an instantly recognizable oak-veneer finish and a black wooden frame. Unlike the standard version, the Classic 80 offers only one foam grille option – brown Quadrex.

Audiophile brand Roksan has expanded its Caspian Series 4G line by introducing the Roksan Caspian Streaming preamplifier with network streaming functionality and the Roksan Caspian stereo power amplifier. The new models complement the two Caspian 4G integrated amplifiers released in 2024.

The new Zeiler Audio SP-02 loudspeakers are based on a professional 15-inch coaxial driver featuring a cone made of fiberglass-reinforced paper and a neodymium magnetic system.

The compact optical disc transport Mission 778CDT was first unveiled in May last year at the High End Show in Munich, and the model has now officially gone on sale. The new product is part of the Mission 778 Series lineup, which also includes the 778X integrated amplifier and the recently announced 778S network player. The transport features an OLED display with adjustable brightness and is housed in a compact aluminium chassis.

Nagra has released a new preamplifier, the Nagra PREAMP II-S, based on a vacuum tube stage. This model features the Nagra Modulometer, similar the iconic Nagra IV-S reel-to-reel tape recorder. It allows visual control of left and right channel levels, while emphasizing Nagra's signature style.

A new floorstanding model has appeared in the lineup of Prague loudspeaker manufacturer Xavian – the Grande Unica, continuing the popular Unica bookshelf monitors. The Xavian Grande Unica loudspeakers are made from solid oak and stand out with their natural, understated design. The cabinets feature a matte lacquer finish with a light natural wax tint, emphasizing the wood grain and making every detail clearly visible.

Bowers & Wilkins has introduced what it calls the best bookshelf loudspeaker system in the 700 Series – the Bowers & Wilkins 707 Prestige Edition. The new model is not a radical departure from previous speakers in the range, but it incorporates more technologies borrowed from such successful loudspeakers as the 705 S3 Signature and the 800 Series.

The latest Musetec MH DA006 Lite desktop DAC inherits the core design solutions from the brand’s flagship DA006 model. The differences in the Lite version lie in the power supply architecture, the analog output stage, and certain digital algorithms.

Born from years of research in signal processing and room-acoustics correction, the Goldmund Ouranos Signature stereo processor combines an advanced DSP architecture, improved control, and the brand’s signature design.

The second part of our ultimate guide of entry- and mid-level integrated amplifiers contains comprehensive conclusions and comparison charts, speakers matching system, answers to frequently asked questions - and, of course, a final rating of winners. Which amplifier should you buy in 2026? The answer placed below.

The $250-$2,500 integrated amplifier segment represents high-fidelity audio's most fiercely competitive battleground. At this price point, you're not compromising on genuine sonic excellence - you're simply choosing which performance priorities matter most to your system and listening preferences.

The legendary British brand Mission continues to thoughtfully develop its compact 778 series of audio components. After the successful debut of the Mission 778X integrated amplifier, the lineup has taken a logical next step: the Mission 778S network player has joined the amplifier, turning the series into a complete two-piece system – compact, and rational in a distinctly British way.

iFi company has released the iDSD Phantom – a digital-to-analog converter that also features a built-in network streamer and a headphone amplifier. The new model implements DSD Remastering up to DSD2048, as well as the well-known K2HD technology for professional sound processing. It also offers expanded sound customization options via XBass Pro and XSpace Pro modes and a set of digital filters.

Romanian manufacturer Meze Audio introduces the Meze Audio STRADA closed-back dynamic headphones. STRADA offers a harmonious acoustic experience where detail, texture, and dynamics come alive with effortlessness and emotional impact. With excellent noise isolation, natural spatial rendering, and a carefully tuned driver system, STRADA creates a private sonic space, perfect for long listening sessions at home or on the go.

The second part of our extensive review of premium integrated amplifiers contains comprehensive conclusions and comparison charts, compatibility matrices, answers to frequently asked questions when choosing an amplifier - and, of course, a parade of winners.

Shopping for an integrated amplifier in the $8,000-$22,000 range means entering the realm where "no compromise" becomes reality. At this level, you're not choosing between build quality and sound - you're choosing which flavor of excellence suits your system best. But with prices that could buy a used car, how do you know which amp delivers transcendent performance versus diminishing returns?

Japanese audio brand Marantz is expanding its lineup of reference-class home-theater electronics with the introduction of the 11.4-channel Marantz AV 30 AV processor and the six-channel Marantz AMP 30 power amplifier. Like the previously introduced pairs Marantz AV 10 and AMP 10, as well as Marantz AV 20 and AMP 20, the new AV processor and multichannel amplifier are, according to the manufacturer, “designed in an exceptionally uncompromising way and offer maximum flexibility in use.” Both AV components integrate seamlessly with other Marantz products and therefore suit a very wide range of theater system configurations, use cases, and performance requirements.

The Luxsin brand has introduced the intelligent Luxsin X8 DAC and headphone amplifier, which became the second model in the manufacturer’s lineup, released just nine months after the launch of the first one – the Luxsin X9. According to the developers, the combination of powerful analogue hardware and an artificial intelligence-driven sound tuning system makes the Luxsin X8 a solution for listeners who value both reference-grade sound quality and modern software-based control.