Musical Fidelity A1 Integrated Amplifier

The design of the A1's transformer is a direct inspiration from the 1988 design, but it has been updated with more efficient dual-mono split-rail windings and better components for improved stability and heat management. The amplifier stages are now powered by fully independent supplies for the left and right channels, allowing for better power handling and stereo imaging. Each power amplifier also now has double the supply capacity, resulting in reduced ripple and noise artifacts.

The low-noise pre-amplifier circuitry is the same as the original A1, but it benefits from some modern touches. The DIRECT switch on the front panel allows users to bypass the Gain stage before the musical signal reaches the volume dial. By switching this button on, the pre-amplifier stage will apply roughly 10dB less gain, suiting it to more modern, high-gain source devices that may benefit from a wider volume dial range. Additionally, the use of a new ALPS RK series motorised potentiometer for the volume dial not only allows greater accuracy and reliability but also enables the 2023 A1 amplifier to make use of a remote control for volume adjustments.

In addition to five RCA stereo inputs, a fixed level output, and a variable output, the A1 also features a high-quality built-in phono stage. The phono input allows for a direct connection to a turntable, whether it has a moving magnet (MM) or a moving coil (MC) cartridge. The low-noise design and automatic impedance-matching for MC cartridges make this a viable solution and a great convenience for vinyl record lovers.

The industrial design of the A1 remains the same as the original from the 1980s, with its angular front panel, full-length top-mounted heatsink, and side-mounted ventilation panels. The only minor modifications are intended to help enhance the user experience and manage the heat output from the pure Class A technology employed within. The result, when combined with the intricate workings, is an amplifier that takes you right back to the original design brief for the A1: to enjoy music.

The return of a true hi-fi classic, the A1 demonstrates that there is more than just power when it comes to excellently-crafted amplifiers. With an updated transformer, power supplies, and modern low-noise components, the A1 is a true sight to behold and an amp that needs to be heard in person. Experience first-hand and learn more about the day-to-day working of this specialised amplifier by visiting your local dealer.

We endeavour to despatch same day for orders placed up to 1pm on available stock items (items with stock message "Usually dispatched within 24 hours"). Please remember to check with us first for a physical stock check if next day delivery is important to you. Any items with stock message "Usually dispatched within 72 hours" are items that we do not hold in stock but order in from the importer or manufacturer as soon as a customer order is received. Occasionally these may be delayed beyond 72 hours due to importer/manufacturer stock levels but we will inform you as soon as we can if this is the case.

UK Orders

We despatch the bulk of our UK mainland items on a 24 hour service – Free of Charge. Non Mainland locations - Isle of Man, Isle of Wight, the Scilly Isles, the Scottish highlands and Islands, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland may take a day or so longer and are not Free of Charge. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail 24 or special delivery. Larger items are delivered using a courier service such as DPD or UPS.

International Orders

Due to the nature of our products and brand restrictions we are only able to send certain items internationally. Smaller items are delivered using Royal Mail Small Packets Airmail with International Tracked and/or Signed depending on value of item and availability of the service. Larger International shipments are sent by insured and tracked services using UPS. If there are any delays due to specific customs regulations, etc, you will be contacted by Hifisound or by the courier with a request for any further information required. Customs duties can apply for shipments to any countries outside of the UK depending on where the product you have bought is made. Customers are responsible for all taxes and duties incurred when the items enter their country.

Collect in Store or Home Install

At the request of the manufacturer some items cannot be supplied by mail order but you can click and buy them and then elect to collect them from our store or arrange a home install (if applicable). Applicable items clearly state that they are Collect in store or home install. Once ordered you will receive a message prompting you to contact us by phone or email to arrange for us to deliver and install or to reserve and collect from our store at your convenience, you will also be advised of the delivery time / stock availability as not all Home install / collect in store items are held in stock.