Audiolab 6000A + Bowers and Wilkins 607 S2 Package

Audiolab 6000A + Bowers and Wilkins 607 S2 Package

Audiolab 6000A Integrated Amplifier

Audiolab has developed a new amplifier to join their new 6000 series, this is one very versatile integrated amp which needs to set its standards very high, so let's break them down, the 6000A comes with digital and analogue sources, wireless connectivity for any portable devices, a built-in phonostage to compliment your beloved turntable and built-in headphone amplification as well as speaker connectivity. This amplifier can pull of many pros, but it's how exceptionally well it pulls them off. The 6000A is an easy temptation without a doubt.

The 6000A shares a few similarities with Audiolab's 8300A with its rotary controls and large central OLED display, but, unlike the 8300A which cost more, the new 6000A incorporates a high-quality D/A conversion, enabling any digital sources to be connected directly without needing an external DAC. The 6000A has four digital inputs, three line-level analogue inputs, an input for your turntable, a favourite feature, wireless connectivity via Bluetooth and a dedicated headphone amp.

Digital circuitry

When it comes to new amplifiers, Audiolab likes to go above and beyond, a lot of time and effort has gone into the 6000A's digital circuitry to make sure it delivers the level of quality that one might expect from a high-performance standalone DAC. If the circuitry that surrounds the ES9018 (Reference chip) is not at a sufficient standard, the testing will result in the sound feeling 'cold' and 'harsh' - this is what Audiolab avoids, precise circuitry without compromising any quality loss.

Analogue circuitry

The 6000A is a very discrete Class AB power amp, which will deliver 50W per channel into eight ohms, with a maximum current delivery of 9 amps. Like the digital circuitry, Audiolab has invested a lot of time and effort into the analogue circuity of the 6000A. A substantial 200VA toroidal transformer, followed by 4x15000uF reservoir capacity (60000uF in total), helps the amp to maintain firm control of the music whilst enabling excellent dynamic range. The preamp section of this amplifier is kept as simple as can be to maintain signal purity with line input signals passing to a precision analogue volume stage.

Phonostage & Headphone Amp

Throughout these past current years there been a sharp incline with vinyl usage, Audiolab has recognised this and added a built-in phonostage into the 6000A, this can be used for both moving magnet and moving coil cartridges with a 'high quality, low noise, JFET-based circuit with precise RIAA equalisation'. In addition to this, there has been a higher demand for headphones, so headphone users will now have the privilege to listen to Audiolabs dedicated headphone amp with current-feedback circuitry. Audiolab has nailed this addition due to the gain bandwidth and high slew rate, ensuring a dynamic yet detailed engaging performance to any type of headphone user.

Overview

I personally believe that the 6000A will stand out from the crowd, not only due to its iconic looks but its outstanding performance. This price point is spot on and yet maybe a good starting point for some people who want to have a high-quality start. With features like Bluetooth connectivity, which is a strong selling point, it's perfect for times where you want to kick your feet up in the living room and relax listening to your favourite Spotify playlist. With now a built-in phonostage, turntables are more viable. If you've also stumbled across your dusty vinyl collection in the attic, the 6000A would bring all those memories back to life, easy connection, happy times. With headphones increasing in demand, it was a perfect move to add a built-in headphone amplifier. Headphones are becoming more advanced so getting that max quality output from your headphone will be at ease with this amplifier.

Bowers & Wilkins 607 25th Anniversary Edition Speakers

Key Features:

- Compact Speaker -
- Outstanding Bass Response -
- 130mm (5”) Continuum Cone mid/bass driver -
- Available in Matte Black, Satin White and Oak -

The new Bowers and Wilkins 607 Anniversary Edition bookshelf loudspeakers are the smallest addition to the 600 series, not to be fooled though, this speaker may be small but delivers pristine sound with punchy bass. The 607 AE features Bowers and Wilkins' award-winning Continuum cone technology which will create a pure and precise soundscape. The 607 AE isn't just about boasting about how exceptionally good it sounds, it also has some very nice design tweaks from the previous 607 edition. This standmout speaker will sit proudly with a nice, clean look. Bowers have removed the grille pegs and replaced them with magnets, the port has been moved to the rear cabinet, creating a modern and premium aesthetic, topped with a matte finish. The finish options are Matte Black, Satin White and Oak.

Priced as a pair. Stands sold separately.