There are many out there, and you could include us in this one, that thought the new Synthesis integrated amplifier would never arrive.

It was always “about to leave...” and “On the way....”, but, it never actually seemed to be HERE.

Well, as if by magic, in the last weeks of December, Santa came early, because our brand new Action series 100 arrived.

For those who don’t know why we were all so excited, we should tell you that this is a full 100 watt valve amplifier that incorporates inside the name famous Matrix Valve DAC.

This is such a substantial bit of kit that we thought we would spend the next three to four weeks getting used to it, running it in and any other expression you could think of, and would then give you a Worlds first full and exclusive review.

This is now complete and so to read the full review, please click “here”.

To download the full manufacturers brochure that covers both the A100 and its slightly less powerful sibling the A50 version, please click Here.

Primare has launched a new I32 integrated amplifier which boasts a whole host of features.

Excellent sound quality and fine build quality aside, which you can take for granted with pretty much any Primare device, it comes with a unique optional sound board.



This board gives a number of very handy inputs. Notably 2 x Digital Coaxial inputs, 1 x Toslink optical digital input, 1 x USB input, 1 x SD memory data input with convertor to USB (optional), 1 x LAN input, 1 x Composite or SVideo output for iPod playback, Digital and Analogue audio for iPod/iPhone interface as well as a WiFi/DAB+ interface.

With this optional board in place the whole amplifier becomes more of a media handling centre than just a mere integrated amplifier. Primare have obviously put a lot of thought into this design.

With its great looks and excellent build aligned to excellent audio qualities and technical finery, this looks to be a truly integrated system in more than just the usual sense.

Synthesis is preparing the release of two new monster valve integrated amplifiers. The Metropolis 100i (and the later to be released 175i) are hugely powerful integrated valve amplifiers. The 100i, due immanently, features 8 x KT66 power valves, 2 x 12BH7 driver valves and 2 x ECC83/12AX7 input stage valves.



The outcome of this is a massively powerful 100W with real World driving capabilities. Inputs for a DAC, Tuner, DVD, CD and an XLR offer more than enough for most people, with the addition of a Pre Out, for those who may wish to use it in a Home Cinema loop.



The 100i weighs in at a hefty 50 Kgs. So don’t expect to be lifting it up with one hand free to do the dusting.



The amplifier offers all of the subtleties and depth you would expect from this manufacturer of valve amp extraordinaire. However, what you also get is a vice like control over the lower bass notes that previously you just couldn’t expect from the lower powered range of Tube amps. You also therefore get the chance to use speakers that would not have been available to the lover of Valve sounds because of either speaker inefficiencies or driving problems. With the new Metropolis range this is not really an issue.

So, awesome control and bass reproduction aligned with fluid valve depth, detail and musicality. All boxes ticked we think.

Audio Analogues latest product is a warm and friendly addition to an already excellent range of products.



The introduction of the new Crescendo range brings about a pleasant surprise for would be owners of the High End Italian audio brand, in as much as the components are very well built, featuring a good wealth of inputs, a fine build quality with a great feel in operation as well as a fine sound quality, all at a very un-expected price point.



Their smooth delivery, when matched to a good pair of revealing speakers, is just the ticket for a relaxing time in front of your hi-fi. Although with ample power on tap, don’t think that you can’t raise the game play if you want to. There’s certainly enough grip and excitement there when you need it.

At just £599.00 they represent top drawer quality at a very affordable price indeed. Enough to raise a bit of a din, a Crescendo in fact!

Roksan have just released their heavily updated Kandy integrated amp and CD Player.

The new K2 look is very funky and professional looking aligned to the familiar Roksan family sound, but with a whole host of improvements.

Available in a choice of Black or Silver anodised brushed finishes, they have better bass control and more depth in the sound stage than the models they supersede. More authority also makes them stand out from the crowd.

You'll also get a very nice programmable Roksan learning remote control with a very handy built in back light (why aren't other people doing that?).

Roksan were always top for build quality anyway, and this has continued on with the new designs, and if possible, maybe even improved.

Many manufacturers may have struggled to upgrade what was already a great little package, but evidently, the Kandy man not only can, but has.