SMSL VMV A1 Pro Stereo/Mono Amplifier Review

[375HP2482]

Bridge mode requires changing modes in the menu. When I did that, the amplifier would not produce any output and some red LEDs would be blinking through the back terminals. I tried a few things and eventually gave up. Also, and maybe related, the positive speaker terminal for the right channel was loose.

Perhaps the flaky speaker terminal triggered/latched a No Load detection state (red LEDs blinking).

 

[multichannel_guy]

Amir's numerous tests have shown that the Op Amps update was a placebo and the same goes for the capacitor updates / tweaks

You will not hear any difference between 85 sinad and 120db sinad when we ABX test you. So, feel free to buy this SMSL without worrying too much.

In fact, we could just set the grand sinad chart on fire for all you ABX test failing test subjects. Go out and buy anything....Don't feel so insecure and scared that sinad daddy might scold, discipline you if you bought a low sinad amp or something,

Good luck

 

[Mike_Trueman]

Most reviews seems to be positive.

Is it better to spend a bit more and buy the SMSL PA-X?

 

[JeremyFife]

Most reviews seems to be positive.

Is it better to spend a bit more and buy the SMSL PA-X?

More money will not get you better sound. Look at features (and aesthetics) and make your choice.

 

[daniboun]

You will not hear any difference between 85 sinad and 120db sinad when we ABX test you. So, feel free to buy this SMSL without worrying too much.

In fact, we could just set the grand sinad chart on fire for all you ABX test failing test subjects. Go out and buy anything....Don't feel so insecure and scared that sinad daddy might scold, discipline you if you bought a low sinad amp or something,

Good luck

I never said otherwise) I have what I need in terms of amp. However, I find this SMSL very average considering the performance/price ratio

 

[Roland68]

You will not hear any difference between 85 sinad and 120db sinad when we ABX test you. So, feel free to buy this SMSL without worrying too much.

In fact, we could just set the grand sinad chart on fire for all you ABX test failing test subjects. Go out and buy anything....Don't feel so insecure and scared that sinad daddy might scold, discipline you if you bought a low sinad amp or something,

Good luck

Most reviews seems to be positive.

Is it better to spend a bit more and buy the SMSL PA-X?

I just can't understand why someone would spend so much money on such measurements and relatively little performance.
A Fosi V3 stereo with a 48 V power supply costs just €/$110, has more performance, and shouldn't be any worse.
The closer you get to the price of the A1 Pro, the greater the gap becomes in terms of measurements and/or performance.

 

[amirm]

Perhaps the flaky speaker terminal triggered/latched a No Load detection state (red LEDs blinking).

Same terminal worked in non-bridged mode.

 

[lewdish]

AX has a writeup about more testing methods for the AP for amplifiers

Practical Test & Measurement Testing Power Amplifiers

Power amplifiers present a unique set of testing challenges that are usually not encountered with digital or low-level analog circuits, as they must supply significant current as well as voltage to their loads. This comprehensive checklist on what is needed for testing power amplifiers covers...

audioxpress.com

 

[Tweeter2016]

What about old SMSL VMV A1 (not Pro)? It is also "not so good"?

 

[Roland68]

What about old SMSL VMV A1 (not Pro)? It is also "not so good"?

The VMV A1 is a Class A amplifier and has absolutely nothing to do with the VMV A1 Pro, except for the manufacturer.
It's not bad; I had the chance to hear it once. But it's certainly no better than the well-implanted TPA325X amplifiers, such as the 3E Audio A5/A7 series or Toppings PA5 II.

By the way, it only has 2 x 15 watts at 4 ohms. I'd rather invest that money in an A30a or 2 x B100. But that's just my opinion.