Audiolab 6000A MkII Integrated Amplifier

Since the inception of the 6000A in 2016, Audiolab’s brand has undergone rapid evolution. The introduction of award-winning models in both digital music playback and integrated amplifier domains has cemented the company’s position at the forefront of audio technology. The 9000CDT, 9000N, 7000CDT, 7000N Play, 9000A, and 7000A models have exemplified Audiolab’s commitment to pushing performance boundaries across a range of price points. With the launch of the 9000A – Audiolab’s most advanced integrated amplifier – and the 7000A, positioned between the high-end 9000A and more affordable 6000A, the brand's engineers have introduced numerous technical advancements, culminating in the 6000A MKII.

Features

• Class AB amplification delivering 2x 50W (8Ω) / 2x 75W (4Ω)
• ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC
• Low-noise, JFET-based MM phono stage
• HDMI ARC, four S/PDIF digital inputs and Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD
• Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier
• Integrated, Pre and Pre-Power operating modes

A Step-Up

The Audiolab 6000A MKII maintains the original 6000A's role as an accessible yet impressive "step-up" amplifier, ideal for entry-level audiophiles, but now with significant upgrades in both sound and features. Visually, the MKII remains almost identical to its predecessor, ensuring seamless integration with existing components from the 6000, 7000, and 9000 series. This consistency in design allows for an enhanced listening experience while maintaining compatibility across the Audiolab range.

Power Supply

One of the key upgrades in the 6000A MKII is the enhanced transformer and power supply implementation. The design offers increased voltage from the secondary windings of the transformer, with reduced impedance for better control over the power supply voltage. This leads to the signature Audiolab sound – exceptional consistency, dynamic range, crisp definition, and rhythmic timing. The inclusion of a robust 200VA toroidal transformer, paired with four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors, ensures superior control over the music and impressive dynamic performance.

Advanced DAC and Expanded Connectivity

Audiolab has significantly improved the DAC performance in the MKII, now featuring the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M chipset, an upgrade from the previous ES9018. This flagship DAC supports 32-bit/768kHz PCM and incorporates HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator, offering ultra-low noise and a remarkable dynamic range. The MKII also boasts expanded connectivity options, including four S/PDIF inputs and a HDMI ARC input for AV system integration. Bluetooth 5.1 aptX HD support further enhances streaming performance with superior range, speed, and quality.

Multi-Functional Operation

The 6000A MKII continues Audiolab’s minimalist philosophy to ensure maximum signal purity, with a precision analogue volume control and independent low-noise power supplies. The amplifier also includes an advanced phono stage with a high-quality, low-noise, JFET-based circuit. Additionally, the dedicated headphone amplifier provides a dynamic and detailed listening experience across a range of headphones. Audiolab has introduced multiple operational modes, including ‘Integrated’, ‘Pre’ and ‘Pre-Power’, offering flexible functionality for various setups, such as connecting the unit to an AV processor for home cinema systems.

A Benchmark in Integrated Amplifiers

The 6000A MKII builds on the reputation of its predecessor by offering outstanding value and high-quality sound in a more refined, versatile, and future-proof package. Audiolab’s continued dedication to improving performance through incremental advancements has resulted in an integrated amplifier that offers even greater performance, ensuring its place as an essential component for audiophiles and enthusiasts alike.

Specifications