✅ 🛒 *amzn.to/2S4HVCf**, **bit.ly/M5si* ★ *QOTD: What other product line have you experimented with in order to find that “sweet spot” for yourself and what made you ultimately land on “the one”?* ★ *🎵+ 🎥 + PRODUCTS SHOWN☝️CLICK “SHOW MORE” in the description* ★ *RULES: Please be respectful. NO OUTSIDE LINKS, URLs, email addresses, etc.*
@SeanVedell3 жыл бұрын
Headphones. You should see the graveyard of cans at my house. It’s embarrassing. After many iterations and much wasted money I have “invested” in a pair of Shure SE846’s. Not the most expensive IEM’s but not cheap either, however, they’re worth every penny for me. Your review of the Sony XM4’s made me re-enter the over-the-ear camp but I used AirMiles rewards to get those for free so that’s a win-win all around.
@deonellis85773 жыл бұрын
Hi Andrew! Great review...thank you very much! 👍🏻 I am looking to put together one of the "classic" combos - M6Si paired with Focal Aria 948s. The NAD Masters M33 sure looks "Yummy!" - but not sure if it will be able to drive the Focals with the same authority as the M6Si 🤔🤔
@TheLkdude3 жыл бұрын
HEGEL, please!
@zachariahadams3 жыл бұрын
I have an idealised idea about how something sounded in my memory. I look for the negative space. Haven't found it really. My ears are probably past that age.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
@Diego Armando For full specifications please refer to the Musical Fidelity website.
@franks35933 жыл бұрын
Great review. I have spent 3 months researching integrated amp options and you helped me close in on a winner. In the end it was between the M5si and the M6si with the winner being the M6si since I liked the addition of a balanced input. Upgraded from a Rotel RX-1052 and I'm really loving my choice even right out of the box. Thank you for the help and keep it up!
@jamesslane41352 жыл бұрын
I just got my M5. It is awesome. I had an AVR receiver for 25 years. This kills it.
@jacek.radunc10 ай бұрын
Influenced by your review on YT, I replaced my M3si with a silver M5si and I'm delighted. Thanks to you, I have a beautiful amplifier and my house is filled with wonderful sound.🥰
@guydaviddezarn5090 Жыл бұрын
Who does this Andrew Robinson think that he is that he can be, at once charming and informative, witty, yet self-deprecating. By far, the best review of any stereo product that I've ever enjoyed, whether in person or online. Well done, you! I've just purchased an M5si, after an email from Heinz Lichtenegger. He highly recommends it, as well.
@simonkenny8924 Жыл бұрын
Hi I was thinking also to purchase the M5si. What do you think of it
@guydaviddezarn5090 Жыл бұрын
@@simonkenny8924 I cannot speak highly enough about this musical fidelity and it is gorgeous and has somebody far more knowledgeable than I says it makes your system sing
@simonkenny8924 Жыл бұрын
@@guydaviddezarn5090 cool I’m saving up I’m lost without my vinyl, and want best amp I can afford cheers
@GR8Tmate Жыл бұрын
Are you happy with the amp?
@trr92303 жыл бұрын
Thank God you came to THAT conclusion! I looked all over KZfaq and the web for reviews for the M5SI, found just a few, but decided to buy it anyway, this morning. Then came this review, the same day😅
@urakur000 Жыл бұрын
I had the M6si for an audition home in my system, with the end result sound out of a pair of Spendor A4. I absolutely loved the M6si for the tonal quality and the size of the projected sound stage either side of my speakers. However I really felt the power output was wasted on me and as much as I would have loved to keep it, I decide upon the more cost effective M5si…
@timothygiordano36283 жыл бұрын
Hello Andrew, I recently bought the M6si to pair with a pair of Focal 1038Be, a Rega Planar 6 turntable with a Soundsmilth Carmen MKII ES moving iron cartridge, with cables by Cardas Clear Reflection. Long story short, divorce, sold all of my HT equipment, moved from a house with a dedicated HT room to a loft apartment with space for only analog and listening to music. I do not miss the HT. The M6si drives those speakers with such ease and the bass that is coming through is amazing. Most music listened to is Vocals, Jazz, Classical, and Classic Rock. The vocals are amazing. I was not impressed with the phono stage on the M6si so I added a KC Vibe phono stage which made a HUGE difference. Amazing sound. I'm streaming through a BlueSound Node 2i that is connected directly to the Internet (my music is on Amazon). I totally agree, the remote is horrible, but I hardly use it as I don't find it very responsive as well. I like to turn that heavy dial to achieve the proper volume. BTW, I've never pushed the volume more than 1/3 the way and this is in a loft that is 32'long x12'wide x 16'high. Love your reviews and your passion to achieve a wonderful listening experience. Thank you.
@joshuabrain97513 жыл бұрын
I have the M6si with Focal 1038Be too. Amazing combination. I just need a better DAC now and a streamer and I’ll be set
@timothygiordano36283 жыл бұрын
@@joshuabrain9751 Since I stream through Amazon, I use the BlueSound Node 2i; however, it's best to be directly wired to the router, otherwise it drops a lot over wifi. It has it's own DAC.
@zachariahadams3 жыл бұрын
I really respect how you talk about your decisions as a family unit. It seems like y'all collaborate well respecting each other's strong points any you narrate that. So many other channels highlight the conflict between the system and a wife. I had to drop a Q+A channel because a lot of yucks got made about what held more value, You're system or your wife.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I'll let Kristi write her own remarks, but it means a lot to me (and I know her too) to read your comment. If I may, all either of us want for this channel and for our viewers is for them to have fun and enjoy their systems -hopefully with their loved ones. This hobby isn't meant to be exclusive, for music and movies aren't exclusive, they're about sharing. I have no stomach for male chauvinism, or people who claim to know more or be better than someone else -especially because of a hobby. You can share your experience without making others feel bad or less than. That mindset starts in one's own home and then (should) work its way out to the rest of the world. Be well. -Andrew
@KristiWright3 жыл бұрын
I just want to thank you for saying this, Zachariah. One of the most challenging things for me as a woman nevermind the fact that I'm a significant part of this channel, is seeing the WAF comments from the audio community. The constant blame game that it's the fault of women that X products exists or that "my wife won't let me have..." is tiresome and truly skips over the discussion that really needs to be taking place - that there is a lack of inclusion (and not just with women) by the audio community. I really hope that will change over time.
@spaige6603 жыл бұрын
@zachariah adams For real - some of the other channels are so toxic.
@dennisdickey22673 жыл бұрын
I'm keeping my Kenwood KA-109 (1990) integrated amp. Works great. Phono preamp. Bluetooth added. Running four KLH speakers and an 80w sub. Current cost $0.00. Old doesn't mean obsolete or dead. Wish I still had that old Phase Linear 400 from the 70's. That was a monster. AR speakers. Killer setup.
@petervanvalderen91362 жыл бұрын
Last week I bought the M5si also because of this review. It's paired with my Bowers and Wilkins 702 S2. It's seems to be a match in heaven.
@musicman8270 Жыл бұрын
Thanks, just bought a pair of 702s2 's and was just wondering...
@willmould39713 жыл бұрын
I’ve been searching for a powerful yet affordable analog amplifier for awhile now. Your video really helped me make my decision. I just bought the M5 after 3 months of looking. Keep up the great work!!
@__-vo7iq3 жыл бұрын
Those La Scalas look HUGE in that room.
@brianjoseph39373 жыл бұрын
To answer the QOTD, I'm not so much sure for me it was experimenting with a product line as it was doing some reading and just taking a chance on one. Over the years I've had a couple Yamahas, a couple Denons, a Marantz and a Harmon Kardon. Nothing seemed to really it home for me. Ended up doing some reading and bought a Dayton Audio HTA100BT and haven't looked back. Only 50wpc but pairs great with both my Elac B6.2 bookshelves and my old Pioneer GS-301WA2 floor standing speakers. Sounds alive, fills the space, but never seems too overpowering. Have a great afternoon. Always enjoy and look forward to your videos.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for sharing and for watching! Be well!
@donnhall98003 жыл бұрын
Thank you for being here - I spent a year testing stereo components while stationed with the US Marine Corps in Okinawa from 1976 - 77 where I ended up with a Pioneer SX 1050 Receiver, a TEAC double cassette player, now retired, JBL65 speakers and when I returned to the states I purchased a Bang and Olufsen Beogram 2400 turn table. Since then I have added a TEAC X-10 reel to reel and a Marantz CD player. My pioneer receiver is screwing up so badly I am no longer able to tolerate it. Either channel might at any moment drop out, lose power, fade quickly away; when I turn the balance to that channel/speaker and crank the volume I get static and then a break through, the sound returns to normal but at any moment this might reoccur on that channel or the other. I took the receiver to my tech guy and he could not reproduce the problem. When I brought it home and reconnected everything the problem disappeared for a month and then came back as bad or worse than before. I am going to watch your videos to help me learn about what is available in stereo equipment today, before I make any purchase. Might I trouble you for a citation of a video to begin? Sorry to be so long winded, I think I needed to vent...
@mikevincent63323 жыл бұрын
Check youre speaker relays, speaker select switches, source select switches- also noisy transistors in the front end of the offending channel - you can try and induce the fault through selectively heating or freezing the transistors individually. (can of "freeze") So these are the transistors that for the differential amp or ones around them that I have seen go noisy in the past and cause this kind of thing.
@diluxe3 жыл бұрын
You and Darko are fast becoming my favourite audio tech channels
@false_binary Жыл бұрын
M5si arrived today, paired with Dali Oberon 7s, and Rega P2. The latter components were really brought to life; amazing detail and endless power (like very much ALOT of power 😯). I would agree that any flaws a source may have are noticeable, the M5 is very true to its signal and does make it obvious other integrated amps often not as much. I am glad MF kept the M5 mission specific as a power integrated that owners can pair with the evolving inputs on our own. Great review!
@avro663 жыл бұрын
Having owned and used many musical fidelity products from the 1980,s I have never experienced a bad product, anybody wanting to build a good quality hifi system, could do a lot worse than choose a musical fidelity item.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Good to know. I'm just starting with MF, nice to see they've been doin people right for a long time. Appreciate you chiming in!
@monkeygod20242 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review - surprisingly few in depth looks at Musical Fidelity products floating around out there, but it's a brand I've always been fond of, based on previous encounters. This actually prompted me to take a second look at the M6si, which I had mentally crossed off my list because it 'only' had 1 balanced input (i switched most of my stuff over to balanced a while back), but with supply chain issues and my budget, this was literally the only amp that was a) a clear improvement over my previous, b) within my budget ($2-3.5k USD) and c) actually in stock in Singapore. I was tempted by the NAD M33, Anthem STR and Hegel 190 - but those were more expensive and crammed all the streaming/usb dac/bluetooth features in the amp whereas I personally prefer to keep my sources seperate. Needless to say, I am very happy with my choice - although I slightly wish my budget could have stretched to afford the limited M6si Chrome Edition which purportedly has improved selected components for better audio - then again, with a new toddler running around, that mirror finish probably wouldn't last too long :P I absolutely agree that the MF does a great job adding a level of realism or even vibrancy to acoustic instruments - my first test disc was some Rodrigo y Gabriela and it did indeed "slap" :) Good amount of bass, detail, texture and very dynamic. Fresh out of the box, I'm getting a bit more sibilance than with my prior amp and the soundstage is a bit muddled, but that may be due to a mismatch in power cords as I was testing with the upgrade cable I was using previously (need to order in a new one to match my power conditioner), but overall very happy and I think this will stick around my home for a good few years :) It does run pretty hot though!
@KitsuneBleu3 жыл бұрын
Andrew, Thank you very much for this and your earlier video this past spring on the Musical Fidelity M3si and M8xi. It was that earlier video that directed me toward the brand. When I eventually made my purchase this fall, I went with the M6si and paired it with KEF R7s. I could not be happier with my decision. Thank you so very much for this and your previous review. These amps really are something special and fit my tastes perfectly. I can't recommend this line highly enough.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
So glad you found it helpful. Happy listening.
@craigcoughlin18343 жыл бұрын
For anyone considering this, I have a 20+ year old MF A300 integrated. It's worked flawlessly in all of that time. Beyond watts, these are high current amplifiers that can deliver massive dynamic peaks. As Andrew mentioned, they can be a little dry and unforgiving in the top end especially. On a great recording that can mean a lot of 'air' and sparkle but it can make poor source material almost unlistenable. People with bright or metal dome tweeter owners be warned!
@chewingcheung2 жыл бұрын
Just purchased the M5si today. I heard them side by side the M3si. It is definitely worth the top-up. Paired it with an Audiolab 6000N.
@Rascallucci2 жыл бұрын
Congrats! Personally, I went for the Roksan Blak instead as I have a history with their amps. But, there is no doubt the M5si is much more value for money at its price point. If I were to do it again, I probably would have given the M5si's big brother the M6si a better look. At 220W into 8 ohms, it can drive a lot of speakers. Again, specs wise it can't be beat at its price point, it would be all down to the sound difference.
@HerrFinsternis2 жыл бұрын
Hi Cheung, cool to hear you listened to them side by side. Could you tell what is different in terms of sound? I am not interested in the extra power itself, but if the sound characteristic changes from the m2 to the m3 to the m5 that may be all the reason one needs to prefer one over the other. I for one like what I hear in this review about the m5, but if the m3 gives the same sound at less power I'm ok with that, given the sensitivity of my speakers. More often then not, along with the power comes a (slight) change in sound. Is that the case here?
@chewingcheung2 жыл бұрын
@@HerrFinsternis The difference in power will give you some headroom. The differences are subtle. For me it was about the build quality. The sound is about the same. Felt like the M5si had slightly better control over the speakers. I was listening to a pair of Sonus Faber Sonneto I.
@HerrFinsternis Жыл бұрын
@@jfloop77 No I was able to get another amp that was on my shortlist (Marantz PM8006) with a 35% discount. Figured I could always resell it without a loss, but I've been really happy with it and ended up pairing it with the nd8006 to get all forms analogue and digital of input you could possibly want, except for hdmi. I mainly listen to cd and vinyl, but the streamer and/or bluetooth is really handy for when you have people over and want something running in the background. I paired it with the Wharfedale Linton's, which many people would advice against because your stacking warm on warm on warm. But I own a lot of bad recordings that need some smoothing over and this setup gives me that whilst still giving detail and a bit of punch to more modern songs and especially higher quality vinyl (from days past). The build in tone controls are set to accommodate my living room and I highly recommend an amp that has them. I now have a sound that doesn't annoy me whatsoever, whatever I play, so I can just focus on the music 😊
@spaige6603 жыл бұрын
That ending was 🔥. Great review guys.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. Always appreciate that you watch until the end.
@SeanVedell3 жыл бұрын
Priceless.
@Andre_Ons_Marshall Жыл бұрын
I'm using an Musical Fidelity M5si with a pair of Acoustic Energy AE309 Floor standing speakers and I love the sound. I find their is great detail and the mids and bass are just right. Looking at replacing my old Denon CD player with Musical Fidelity CD Player next.
@B1tterAndThenSome3 жыл бұрын
Recently I've been coming back to RATM, both the self-titled and Evil Empire each have amazing production in their own way. The debut sounds super slick while Evil Empire sounds like four guys jamming in a room.
@mjmonjure6 ай бұрын
I know, it’s 3 years later, but on the other hand it just proves how lasting and relevant your reviews are 😊…. I am buying either the M3 or M5, but after watching your M3 review, then watching the M5 video, it seems like you are reluctantly recommending the M5 over the M3. If they sound the same (roughly) and I get more juice with the M5, simple decision. Is there something else that I’m missing?
@MrTmilovan5 ай бұрын
I've had M2si (which they say is essentially the same as m3si power wise) for some time now and have upgraded to M5si recently. I have speakers that are not the most sensitive and the difference is substantial in my case making m5si upgrade really worthwile.
@RichardGreen4223 жыл бұрын
I had an MF X-150 for more than 15 years, and it finally failed. Instead of repairing it, I sprung for the M5si. It is all you say--powerful, transparent, and musical. I expect to keep it for 15+ years.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
That's so great to hear. I too hope to be enjoying it for years down the line.
@MSDOGS19763 жыл бұрын
I like your last statement. "The only person that has to like your system is you". I'm glad I don't have ears that requires more refined equipment that cost a lot of money. Ha. My Sony av receiver serves me fine. Enjoy these videos even if I won't buy most of the tech reviewed. Thumbs up!
@snowrang3r6573 жыл бұрын
Even though I'm done my hunt for now, still enjoy watching your reviews! Forte III and A-S2200 in the house and wow a big step up from what I was using before.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I bet that is a GREAT system. Thanks for continuing to watch and support the channel. We really do appreciate you.
@Rascallucci2 жыл бұрын
In terms of specs vs price point as an integrated amp, I think it will be hard to beat the M5si. The caveat being as Andrew was trying to say is whether you are after a best sounding integrated amp at this price point or a trendy all-in-one streaming integrated amp which is what a lot of people seem to want these days? Personally, I am more old school and I value sound quality over the jazzy looks of an all-in-one streaming amp with a colourful screen on its front panel more. Don't get me wrong, I am not saying these streaming amps don't sound good, in fact many of them sound reasonably good, but typically they just don't sound quite as good as a quality integrated amp. So, for me I would rather run a separate streamer to my amp. The only thing I would say about the M5si is that I think the sweet spot at least in my eyes is one model up the M6si. It is slightly more expensive at around US$3K, but it is also considerably more powerful at 220W into 8 ohms. When I was looking for an amp within this particular price point, I actually ended up going for the Roksan Blak purely because I've had a history with Roksan amps before and I do enjoy their dynamic, punchy and sweet house sound. But, to be honest with you, I still don't know whether I picked the right amp as at least on paper the M6si is much more bang for the buck. It is a good bit cheaper than the Roksan, but comes with an additional 70W. So, if you are on a budget at this price point, I think you will have to audition the M6si at least. Or if you feel 150W is already plenty for your system, then try out the M5si or both.
@laurelhardy40643 жыл бұрын
Screw bluetooth, the best advice for any audiophile, great review, thanks.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for watching until the end.
@gizzy24033 жыл бұрын
@@andrewrobinsonreviews luv that ending scene Andrew, made me lol! Oh & how's Kadi?? Miss her in th vids🍻🍸
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
@@gizzy2403 She'll be coming back here soon. She needs to get her hair did first.
@johnlawrence9630 Жыл бұрын
I bought the ATC SXM 7s as my utimate affordable small bookshelf speaker for my Elex-r. Guess what ? The amplifier is struggling and treble seems to treble ( well double!) itself and become somewhat harsh. However the SXM,s do show excellent reception with the right power. I know of MF because my son-in-law has the original Pre and Power amps and CD player played thru Proac floorstanders. Wonderful. Watching your excellent presentation on You Tube of the M5si, I realize that that is the amp I should have bought - slightly better clarity and power at just about an affordable cost. I have found a dealer that will buy my Elex-r which will bring down the cost of the Msi significantly. My problem with electronics is that I live on an island which uses US voltage, so I effectively have to buy US side, where the prices are higher and in some cases now with the weak pound double. Only very few brands of amplifiers are dual voltage. John D.K.
@Santoshlv4263 жыл бұрын
I went from the AS1000 to and AS3000 recently. Mated with a CDS3000. Levels of accuracy and detail is phenomenal. I've heard stuff on my CD's I didn't even know were there. I agree though that the "bass is light". Speakers I'm using are the NSF901 Soavo 2's. While the bass may be light, it's substantially more controlled and tighter.
@DominiqueMon3 жыл бұрын
As one who paid $100 extra for Rogue Audio's 1/4 lb remote that only controls volume and can't even do that precisely, AND as an extremely satisfied M5si owner, I don't agree at all with your complaints that the M5si review is too plebian. Remotes are functional devices and this one functions well.
@JosephTongret3 жыл бұрын
Man, I've been following you for quite a while now, but I just have to applaud your videography and editing skills. They really stand out! You guys do a phenomenal job! Edit: I laughed my @$$ off at the end! 🤣😅😂
@fletchermunson62253 жыл бұрын
Good review. If I'd auditioned the Musical Fidelity, I might not have the amp I now love. The Schiit Ragnok 2 integrated is a charmer. So neutral, transparent and engaging that I lost my desire to keep looking for other amplification. The only limitation is the power at 60WPC. That said, Schiit makes a 100WPC AB amplifier for $700 that I could couple to the preamp via the pre-outs. That would put the Schiit amp, preamp combination at $2200 and would put it within 10% the Musical Fidelity price unless you add in a good interconnect, then we are looking at 20%. As long as we are talking about quality Brit products, I have been very impressed with my Audiolab 6000 CDT transport. Solid, reliable and does an excellent job.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I hear good things about the Schiit Audio amps. I hope to try one or two in 2021. Thanks for sharing!
@garyvause26282 жыл бұрын
I bought the m5si and the m3scd about 2 years ago and have paired them with monitor audio gold 200 speakers and a nad 588 turntable ,the sound is stunning through the cd player and the turntable even more now i have upgraded the cartridge to a 2m black .
@mrpmj005 ай бұрын
Yep, I'm striving for a live/realistic human vocalist. ---- I've just bought the Musical Fidelity M6s prx amplifier (230 wpc) to replace my Parasound 2125v2 (I'll repurpose it to power my movies surround L/R and take that load off of my Arcam AVR5 receiver in a 7.4.4 setup). My weight requirement is < 50 lbs. I was gonna get an integrated Musical Fidelity M6si (my requirement is a Home Theater bypass and L/R balance) but it didn't have a L/R balance; but my Parasound 2100 preamp does. streaming source=Apple Music lossless
@flodvx6 ай бұрын
My biggest mistake: Rotel RA-1592. It took me 3 years to sell it, 3 years in denial 😅 I finally found the Atoll IN300, which goes perfectly with my B&W 603s.
@monzarace Жыл бұрын
I would like to take the opportunity to add in a few comments to the review of this Musical Fidelity amp. I think for the sake of newcomers to HiFi, more so the ones who spend a few years with micro stuff, small class D, only streaming and so on, that a few comments more on Musical Fidelity's history and more over it's house sound, is a good idea. Where do they come from? I mean, what did they do earlier on? The A1, the MA50, the P470, the x-cans etc. driven to a degree in Class A, would go a long way to explain what the brand stands for. Next, I don't know what the setup have been set up to. If for example an amp is new in box, there will always be a certain time of burning in, then it opens up and reveals what it can do. So was this nib or was it allowed to get used to play, and what was the time from off to on, to good music? Or was it not shut down during the test? Also, a more detailed explanation of how it plays or does it have certain preferences, such as big symphony orchestra, or s small jazz band or blues band, or maybe an all rounder? More elaborate on what transients sounds like, how is an attack on a drumskin, how does it handle human male and female voices and so on, would be nice. What is the capacitor size, what brand, what temp limit, how does it sound when playing muted and when playing loud? A bit more on how it handles low impedances etc, would also be nice. How is the room setup for the review, cables and sources (more) so we, the viewers/listeners can get a feeling for the circumstances under which it was being tested etc. How does it handle the line inputs compared to the phono stage. And how does it handle a separate better external phonostage in the understanding of weather it can "grow" in sound and reward upgrades? I am not making critique, but positive critique. Thanks for posting. Kind regards.
@jasonme35573 жыл бұрын
Andrew if I may. I have a comment about Musical Fidelity. In no way am I blaming you for my disappointment just making a comment. I just took delivery of the MF M3si, I know not the 5 but should be the same product line. I have two sets of speakers I tried it on and yes the sound is nice, very open and forward. Bass has a bit of coloration going on. This is not a sound I was expecting. My speakers are KEF R3's. The highs are right in your face. The bass is hollow and deep, like Bose hollow ... Set two Monitor Audio Silver 8's. I can see the Silvers like this amp more than the KEF. The bass is a more soothing puncher and the highs are less tinny. Mids are good, not great. Both auditions are being connected through the USB and a computer as the source. I tried analog RCA's the USB is better. Did I miss something? My comparison is the Arcam SA20 which I have yet to find a flaw... Thank you for your channel. Love the content. Jason
@vafakarimi8773 жыл бұрын
Best Hi-fi review channel on KZfaq. By far. Great, great work Andrew, so thanks to you and your lady for that and best regards from Iran....
@ZachandEthan3 жыл бұрын
Laughed out loud at the Cheesecake Factory analogy. Because it’s true.
@robertperry52063 жыл бұрын
Your reviews are so well thought out and produced. Thanks for all the great content keep it coming.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much. Will do.
@JavierGarcia-wi9yp2 жыл бұрын
I have the M5i about three years ago. Yesterday use for the first time the USB connection to my iphone . I am positively surprised about the great Quality!!!
@hubsi52632 жыл бұрын
so you think the internal DAC is good?
@b0ltus Жыл бұрын
@@hubsi5263 I own the m5si also and compared the difference between the internal usb dac with a topping e30, topping d10, ifi zen dac, ifi zen dac signature and the ifi zen one signature dac and couldn't really be bothered with the difference in sound quality, yes those other dacs sounded a bit better, but within reason the internal dac is good enough
@matthewhilty42093 жыл бұрын
Omg the cheesecake factory reference was so on point , and yes the musical fidelity 5 series is really good, I heard it at Upscale Audio a few years ago . It was open clean with a touch of warmth that made me question to this day why I purchased something more expensive for minimal gain.
@robcaputo97083 жыл бұрын
Well about 20 years ago I got my foot into the audiophile world and got a system that I was pretty. Recently though I decided that I wanted something a little higher up. Started looking at different KZfaq reviewer‘s including yourself, I’m really impressed with your stuff. You”re comments on musical Fidelity along with other peoples has decided me to go ahead and do the M5. I live in a fairly large space I listen to Classical music, jazz And hardly a day goes by without a little Zepplin or Tool. The room tends to be hard lots of glass and hardwood floors. I really enjoy insight into the music but I listen for long hours and so it can’t be fatiguing. If you had to make a short list of speakers to try to suggest to match with the M5 what would you recommend. Certainly I would respect your opinion greatly.
@sebastianrosenbach78733 жыл бұрын
would love to see this compared to a Hegel Amplifier
@meajmal3 жыл бұрын
@andrew .. Love your videos. I would say you made me care about listening to music the way it is supposed to, ie. am in the rabbit hole.I feel now I have to setup a proper system and re-listen all of my favorite music as I do not think i did any justice to some of that art :) Building my first system based on good sales out there in the holiday season. Not going too crazy as i am still a NOOB. Receiver: Denon x-4500h L-R: JBL Studio 530s Center: Infinity RC -263 On the look out for a single or dual sub now to complete a 3.1 OR 3.2 setup for now. Will eventually get a proper floor standing set to complete a dual surround and stereo setup once i move onto a bigger space and once i understand what I like a bit more in terms of sound. Keep doing what you are doing. I think youtube lacks quality audio content like yours. A small recommendation would be if you could show some of these features that you are talking about and voice over them. P.S: If you or any one have recommendations on the subs to complete that above setup, totally appreciated. 60-40% music to movie ratio.
@davidbeauchamp54459 ай бұрын
Just bought M5si tried a NAD can't remember what model also tried Yamaha 801. So glad I watched you review and tried Music Fidelity love this amp.
@mantasdapkus11983 жыл бұрын
I wasn't convinced by M5si's DAC either, so i added RME ADI-2 DAC. Holly snacks, the improvement was bigger than i anticipated! But i must say that i had Arcam iRdac previously and i though that the integrated DAC of Musical Fidelity was doing a silghtly better job.
@F1fletch3 жыл бұрын
Great review Andrew!! It’s hard to ignore the M5/6Si vs the Technics SU-G700 Considering I have the Klipsch RP-8000F speakers. What are your thoughts?
@mikegallegos73 жыл бұрын
I use: Marantz SR8015 Doge 10 padc (runs to other amps to get mod #s) SONY TA-A1ES - has good remote ... Sanyo DCA 611 - was the first in collection and now it on does dust collection duty - Yamaha A-S1200SL Technic SUG700 (it is digital) ... now I gotta put this stuff away - tend to use the SONY lots Like your vids. Thanks. Have ordered a Wilsentin(sp?) R8 ...
@m6j1593 жыл бұрын
Thoroughly enjoyed that review, guys...spot on. Andrew, I couldn't agree more re: remotes...there is no excuse. Sweet spot experiment would be speakers and I ended up going vintage - two stacked pairs of Meridian M1 active (upper pair inverted). I am clearly in need of help 😂👍. Take care, guys and keep up the excellent work. Thank you.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I love Meridian speakers! Thanks for watching and thank you for the positivity!
@brianbrockhoff3 жыл бұрын
Another fantastic review! Great job as always! Love the look of the M5! Also, I notice a new painting in the background! Very nice! Lol
@brianbrockhoff3 жыл бұрын
Oh... Also to answer the QOTD... I have a simple white Orbit turntable and Audioengine A2+ speakers. Small and simple. Thinking I may need to upgrade down the road when the funds are available, but for now this setup works to spin my beat up old albums from the 70's and 80's. Lol
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
@@brianbrockhoff I love that setup. Only what you need, nothing you don't. 👍
@brianbrockhoff3 жыл бұрын
@@andrewrobinsonreviews Lol... Thanks my friend. It is hard not to have gear envy when watching your amazing videos! Lol
@marcusaurelius29883 жыл бұрын
If someone from Musical Fidelity ever reads this comment, please help us understand why? Why that remote? Why? And again why? Is there something mysterious we are missing about that remote? Is it so very great that we cannot fathom its hidden abilities and it goes beyond our comprehension ? What kind of designer in their right mind would think that hideous thing would be a match for one of the best amplifiers on market? Why?
@hubsi52632 жыл бұрын
I only set the volume once and then serve the amp from the netbook...
@justinsugay11493 жыл бұрын
You deciding to keep this over the Yamaha... wow, what an endorsement if any. Thank you for this video. It was very helpful!
@lancekluemper37083 жыл бұрын
So if i somehow scored a musical fidelity m8 encore for $2500..... I hit a grand slam. These reviews just reinforce my deal of a lifetime. Great review as well. My audio research ref stack beat the m8 encore in 3d depth. Musical fidelity has more detail. Not as much depth but it does have a wide sound stage. The arc gear made the music 3 dimensional. I wont say the arc is better sounding. It was just different sounding as are all amps. You just need to find the best sound for you!
@koszyklbn3 жыл бұрын
If we talking about amps my patch in last yeara was Yamaha rn-602, Nad c326, Onkyo 9130, Onkyo 9150 and after that I've found my sweet spot with Atoll in100se.
@deputy36902 ай бұрын
Andrew nailed this review 100% in my opinion.
@tomscott44386 ай бұрын
This is very much on my short list of integrated amps. After compiling a large (and heavy) separates system, I find myself in a position that requires downsizing. I'm pushing 70, and having recently moved, lifting a 65 lbs (Rogue ST-100) amp was eye opening and revealing. I want quality, but fully understand that achieving parity with my former system is not possible. What I want is quality, listenability, and transportability. This might be it. (I already have a Chord Qutest DAC and Sutherland phono stage, so I don't care what it does or doesn't have)
@dt90193 жыл бұрын
Thank you much, for allowing me to check out some new gear. I have some 15 year old equipment that I’m contemplating replacing, (revel m22 speakers, linn classik stereo, and meridian 555 amp. I WANT a Naim 250DR, 282, w/ some Spendor SP100s, but, the price isn’t the cards, nor do i NEED a system that large. Musical fidelity integrated intrigues me as do the Bowers 702s (i have heard the 805 d3’s ~tasty).
@jeffwinney36733 жыл бұрын
Another great review. The comments at the end cracked me up.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Appreciate you sticking it out through the end.
@abrahamvillegas37523 жыл бұрын
My research from Arcam SA30 -Yamaha AS1200 to Parasound Halo Hint 6. Now I think this is sweat spot budget wise..I finally found my Integrated amp Thanks Andrew
@BenoitMaheMTL3 жыл бұрын
Very interesting product indeed. Do you plan to review the Lyngdorf TDAI-1120 at some point? I'm very excited by it but there's not many reviews... Is it too exotic? I know my room is problematic in many ways, so I'm really curious about the RoomPerfect feature... By the way, I can't wait for the La Scala review :-)
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I want to review the Lyngdorf, maybe in 2021 we'll get to. Thanks for watching!
@jaysworld53783 жыл бұрын
Besides the awesome equipment that you review and the great reviews themselves, I just love the look of your room/listening environment! Looks so relaxing and inviting.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Really appreciate that, Jay. Thank you so much for watching.
@jayaramg94113 жыл бұрын
100% agree with you Andrew. The M5si is my go to amp :P I don't care about its remote nor its DAC, what it does right is more than enough to do justice to its purchase, period! Thanks for putting out real world reviews with weightage given to strength's & weaknesses in a simple & to the point manner. Cheers!
@mrglasses89533 жыл бұрын
My previous system consisted of a Musical Fidelity X-Ray CD player, X-A2 integrated amp, and Tannoy DC6 SE speakers (upgraded from Tannoy Revolution R1s.) I'd had this system since 1999. Time to upgrade though.
@alexandermogollon87853 жыл бұрын
Excellent work as usual, question, in what category can enter the Hegel H95, I know that you can't rate it or testing..by the way, is in the bright future of you review the kef LS50 meta??
@AsadNazif3 жыл бұрын
Would love to see you review Exposure amplifiers and compare these to them! 😃
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I'll have to look into Exposure amps and get back to you. Appreciate you watching!
@froidd7582 жыл бұрын
Good review Andrew. Would the Kef R3 speaker be a good match for this m5si. I'm trying to upgrade my system and considering these two components to match. TtIA
@sean_heisler3 жыл бұрын
Nice review! Still loving my M2si. I use mine as a preamp often with a much more expensive amp and as a preamp it's superb. I have heard that the preamp section in these integrateds are the star of the show that pulls huge amounts of detail and sets the superb tonality. All of their units from the M2si on up use a laser trimmed, resistor based stepped attenuator and that has much to do with the detail retrieval, soundstage and scale. On its own as an integrated it's superb for the price and the way you described the sound of all the three that you reviewed it aligns spot on with what I hear in the M2si. In large part, as you move up the line the basic sound is there throughout but you gain more power and features as you go. Thanks, guys!
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much Sean, appreciate the added insight and perspective!
@ashtangayogagent2 жыл бұрын
Thank you Andrew. Your reviews are greatly detailed and elaborated. I enjoy so many of your reviews. You have a great sense of beauty and delicacy on your videos. Do you think that this musical fidelity m5si is a great match with the fyne audio F502?
@randyshakes3 жыл бұрын
Finally landed on the Rogue Sphinx v3 and Tannoy Revolution xt8f speakers with Kimber Kable speaker wire. TT is Project Debut Carbon Esprit SB with Ortofon 2m blue. TT will be the next piece to upgrade. Almost went with Musical Fidelity but I wanted to play with tubes.
@hammondcaroline2 жыл бұрын
I am looking at this amp or the Rogue Sphinx as well. I also own a pair of LRS speakers. Have you listened to both amps? How did you land on the Rogue amp? Would be so nice to be able to A/B equipment before a big purchase. Looking to upgrade from my Integra surround sound amp for stereo listening with my Maggies.
I've been hoping you would review the m5si, as I had noted it in several other reviews. I've ran a pair of MF M1PWR monoblocks for about 5 years, and loved them. I was wanting to step up from using my AVR as my 2 channel preamp, and your m8xi/m3si review was very helpful. I had decided the m5si was the sweet spot in the range, based on specs and value. When I started looking I found a very gently used m6si for the price of an m5si retail, and decided to take the plunge. I plan to acquire the cambridge CXN v2, which I can use via the xlr inputs. Paired with Monitor Audio Silver 300 towers. Have you ever auditioned Monitor Audios? Love the channel.
@Bazerk6663 жыл бұрын
Thankyou for this great review. This amp has been on my top 3 list for some time. Really loving your work. Cheers from Australia
@DBravo29er3 жыл бұрын
Internal DACs are exactly like built in GPS/Nav systems in cars. It doesn’t matter how cutting edge they are now. They’ll still be inferior ten years from now. At least at these price points.
@Cooliewhistles3 жыл бұрын
Then you can buy an external one in ten years and still hook it up to you int amp
@DBravo29er3 жыл бұрын
@@Cooliewhistles I’m not seeing a good argument for living with a sub par DAC for a decade. Buy a better DAC now and again in ten years if you feel the need. Inbuilt DACs are not a good value proposition.
@mrk8212 Жыл бұрын
I am old enough to not care about a remote for my audio gear. They didn't exist when I cut my teeth on audio and even not having one at all is no problem.
@sunshine16963 жыл бұрын
@Andrew Robinson - when you're forming your impressions, what volume are you usually listening at?
@fattnersgeekfile54782 жыл бұрын
just bought one , thanks for review
@deputy36903 жыл бұрын
Totally agree Andrew! I also have the M2si and that was the first of the two that I purchased and that was on sale for like $560.00 a few months ago. I loved that one so much I got the M5si for my Elacs.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
I bet the Elacs really respond well to the M5si. Thanks for sharing!
@hubert-williams3379 Жыл бұрын
Going with the M6si, reason.. I don't know for sure other than it has a few more bells and whistles.. i.e balanced inputs??
@prestonphoto2212Ай бұрын
Hi Andrew. Thank you for your great work 🎉 Will you choose M5Si over Audiolab 9000a in terms of amplification not connectivity? Thanks
@tech2audio8073 жыл бұрын
"screw Bluetooth", classic! 😂😂
@zarg052 жыл бұрын
I tried Bang & Olufson then Arcam and Cyrus as serious kits, but ended up with Musical Fidelity A5 series Cd and Integrated amp. I had an Arcam A85 pre and power combo but found the A5 integrated sounded much betted. I Upgraded the cs player to the M6 and had the A5 modified by an ex MF engineer. Been happy with it and just changed speakers but ended up with Totem Stfaffs upgraded from Arros.
@tebbywafer16653 жыл бұрын
you spoke about the m5si not forgiving the poor quality from the audio extractor. Have you seen a mid-fi to hi-fi audio extractor? This brings me to my pet peeve with the industries (Audio and Video). I love my two-channel system and used to love my Dolby systems until I realized the products are not built to last more than three years and that the tech only lasts a year. I can't justify spending $5K a year for each new version of Dolby or HDMI. Can the audio industry let the TV do the video (including switching) and have an outboard processor for Dolby, etc... and leave my pre-amp alone? I have a lot more to say on configurations, but I am sure you have thought of this. I would like to see a video with your thoughts on the subject. Thank you
@swietekf2 жыл бұрын
What would be best pair for Kef Q750 - Audiolab 6000A, Musical Fidelity M3si, or Cambridge Audio CXA81?
@neps4th2 жыл бұрын
My recent re-entry into audio: Freya+ and a pair of Aegirs (bridged, of course)
@CarlosPerez-eb5er3 жыл бұрын
I tried Schiit Multi bit, for me to digital. Cambridge DacMagic, offers no improvements. Chord Mojo, again don’t get the hype. IfiZen, good for the price but not what I was hoping for in my system. The Topping 90 brought a relaxed air and smooth texture I was looking for and a price I was happy with.
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Wow, great list! I'll have to look into the Topping now. Appreciate you watching!
@tigertiger16992 жыл бұрын
Cheers🙏 I purchased the M6Si.., just beautiful sound.., even at 1/4 volume… driving 87db 4 ohm speakers..🙏🙏🙏
@robertdiffin91362 жыл бұрын
Those wouldn’t it be Magnapans would they?
@YouTob.2 жыл бұрын
What is the max volumen that you cranked ?
@tigertiger16992 жыл бұрын
@@robertdiffin9136 Dynaudio Contour 30…, year ago I heard the Dyn C4… which I’d never afford.. But I found these new for 1/2 price, their amazing & every improvement I make to the system , they get better.., give them a great recording, at times you’ll hear the drummers breath.., but likewise if flat recording I’m sitting there wondering why I spent the coin😂 I’m a lucky lad👍
@tigertiger16992 жыл бұрын
@@YouTob. Accidentally to about 70-80%? But when there alone.. (wife out), had The Cure to like 50%… f it was loud as, like 100-200 mtrs down the road load. I don’t like driving that hard.., but then it wasn’t distorting at all.., or uncomfortable.., was clear as.., just fn load.., the deep base these Dyn Contour give .. for their size.. 🤯
@YouTob.2 жыл бұрын
@@tigertiger1699is the bass strong too? like you say "beafy" in english? thanks.
@baronofgreymatter143 жыл бұрын
Excellent video. Very balanced. You make it hard to decide which way to go . Id like to see you review the ohm walsh 2000 speakers with this Musical Fidelity amp.. Thank you
@pgsahlman3 жыл бұрын
Look's like a GREAT product. The thing I like the most? I can easily read the labels under all the knobs and switches. So many black audio products use not white, but a dar ochre-colored type which is all but illegible unless you stand there with a flashlight every time you need to use the panel. Ugh. Great review Andrew!
@andrewrobinsonreviews3 жыл бұрын
Good point! Thank you for watching!
@richardgiblin69 Жыл бұрын
Hey Andrew, thanks to this review, I have been and purchased the M5 and really am quite impressed. Not going to lie, it was to replace an Sonos Amp, running Monitor Audio Silver S8, Michell Gyro SE and Vertere Phono Stage - Adding this amp has been transformational, and has well, in the shor-term saved me circa £4k as I was about to upgrade the Monitor Audios to the 300 Gold Series, but now I sit questioning this? Also trying to find a supplier that will let me test in my own home is problematic, and somewhat annoying too. Either way, I want to say thanks for the review ;-) KR, Rich
@josephchamberlain36813 жыл бұрын
I was looking for a well reviewed class a/b amplifier on a budget. It came down to the iotavx integrated and the Sound Artist SA200ia integrated. In the end I decided on the Sound Artist based on a reviewer's claim that it drives the Magnepan LRS speakers "fantastically". I don't have a pair of those but for its price point it seemed like I could have reasonable expectations of it. I gotta say... It's pretty amazing to my ears and for its $409 price tag I feel like you'd be very hard pressed to find it some reasonable competition. Worth a review if you feel so inclined.
@jimbower42492 жыл бұрын
Musical Fidelity is a interesting company. When I looked up their history involving Dan and his ex wife. The Musical Fidelity house sound is interesting and seams like I'd be happy for years with. Thank you for the review keep up the excellent work.
@leoasjj3 жыл бұрын
Hello Andrew, I'm in doubt between three amplifiers. Are they.. Vincent SV-207 - Hybrid Musical Fidelity M5si or M6si Hegel H-190 My boxes are Q Accustics 3050i (25 to 165w at 6 ohms - 91db) What would be the right choice? Congratulations on the channel !!
@wim19833 жыл бұрын
150 watts per channel at 8ohm, so it's 300 watts per channel at 4ohm, and it can go as low at 2ohm or 1ohm?
@thomashobbes87863 жыл бұрын
Very excited by all your Musical Fidelity M reviews I've seen (and I, too, love the looks of their integrateds). The HT pass-through is also intriguing since I do plan on my music room and future 5(7?).1 room being the same. I have a pair of Monitor Audio Silver 300s (and read your prior review of those after I acquired them, but good to know that you are pretty familiar with those speakers). I don't plan on upgrading those speakers further (very happy with them, listening on a borrowed Yamaha RX-V559 while I figure out what to decide upon for an amp). Do you think the M5si is a good pairing with the Monitor 300s? ("good," not looking for "best" or "what will I like," but I think I'm a person who would want an amp that balances with given speakers rather than accentuates a speaker's qualities-for example, I wouldn't want to add a bright amp to bright speakers.) Or might I be on a snipe hunt about amp-speaker pairing being a thing?
@thomashobbes87863 жыл бұрын
Though I might want to wait until they get a better remote. :D