This review dives into the Aiyima A80 amplifier, evaluating its performance as an upgrade for a dated home audio system. The original setup, consisting of an aging receiver and Cambridge Soundworks speakers, suffered from limited music playback options, a lack of remote control, and inconvenient volume adjustments. This upgrade aimed to address these shortcomings, providing a more convenient and enjoyable listening experience. The Aiyima A80, chosen for its versatility and feature set, promised to be the solution.This review explores the A80's capabilities as an all-in-one audio solution. We'll examine its multiple input options, including Bluetooth 5.1, optical, and coaxial connections, along with its built-in ESS938Q2M DAC. We'll analyze the sound quality, focusing on both Bluetooth and optical input performance, and assess the usability of the included remote control. Finally, we'll compare the A80 to its predecessor, the Aiyima A70, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each model for different audio setups.
Pros And Cons
- Step up from A07
- Has PFFB feedback (like A70)
- Multiple inputs (RCA, optical, coax, TRS)
- Bluetooth 5.1 with APX-HD implementation
- ESS938Q2M Saber DAC chip
- Includes remote
- Good sound quality, especially Bluetooth
- Simple music streaming integration
- Better sound than previous setup with old receiver and optical adapter
- Compact size
- Fun display options (V-meters or graphic equalizer)
- Input selector text on remote is too small to read from a distance
- Input selector on the remote only changes small text on the display, making it hard to see which input is selected from a distance
Read more: Fiio K11 R2R DAC/Amp Review: A Worthy Upgrade or Redundant Luxury?
The Setup and Problem
This review focuses on the Aiyima A80 amplifier, used to upgrade a dated home audio system. The original setup comprised an old receiver from the owner's high school days, paired with Cambridge Soundworks speakers.
The primary issue was the limited music playback options. Background music required playing YouTube videos, restricting music sources and lacking phone connectivity. The aging receiver also lacked a remote, necessitating manual volume adjustments.
This presented an inconvenience; changing the volume demanded getting up from a seated position. The goal of this upgrade is to remedy this inconvenience and enhance the overall audio experience.
Introducing the Aiyima A80
The Aiyima A80 was chosen as a solution due to its versatility. It's an improvement on the A07, featuring the TPA3255 chip and PFFB feedback mechanism previously found in the A70.
Unlike the A70, it lacks balanced inputs, opting for RCAs, optical, and coax inputs, plus Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity. Its ESS938Q2M DAC chip enables seamless optical-to-amplifier conversion.
This makes it an ideal all-in-one solution for a setup where multiple input options, including Bluetooth, are desired. This eliminates the need for additional adapter boxes.
Sound Quality and Performance
The reviewer was highly impressed with the A80's audio quality, particularly its Bluetooth implementation. While not ideal for high-fidelity audiophiles, it exceeded expectations for background music or casual listening.
The Bluetooth integration offers seamless connectivity with various music streaming apps, simplifying music playback. Both Bluetooth and optical inputs delivered high-quality audio, surpassing the previous setup.
The inclusion of the remote control was beneficial, although some issues with readability from a distance were noted. The reviewer recommended improving the remote's input selector screen visibility.
Comparison with A70 and Overall Impressions
The Aiyima A80 is a great improvement over the A70 for many users. While the A70 excels for high-fidelity setups with upgradeable components, the A80 is superior for AV systems needing various inputs and Bluetooth connectivity.
The A80's compact design and features make it a practical choice for those seeking a modern, simple audio setup. Its ease of use and multiple input options streamline the listening experience.
The Cambridge Soundworks speakers also received praise; the reviewer planned a separate review to highlight the speaker's performance, which is notable even with the aging speakers.
Conclusion: Is the Aiyima A80 Worth It?
The Aiyima A80 is a highly recommended amplifier for low-key AV setups. Its versatile inputs, Bluetooth 5.1, and excellent sound quality make it ideal for those who want a simple yet effective audio solution.
While the A70 remains superior for high-fidelity setups, the A80 excels in its versatility and ease of use. For users needing a user-friendly, all-in-one amplifier, the A80 is a fantastic choice.
The reviewer highlights the improved sound quality compared to the older system, especially with Bluetooth, and its practicality of eliminating the need for multiple adapter boxes.