Good insight into the music, very good detail and solid bass

Bit dry, i.e. can't really reproduce the space and air around intruments and voices

I bought this at the beginning of 1998 and it has definately shown it's worth as a very good all round amp. I tested it next to the Audio Analogue SE and although the AA was significantly better with acoustic music it had weak bass and not much weight, which I like- it gives the music more excitement and feeling. I do like the way the Audiolab powers into anything giving music real verve, from stereophonics to the Eagles. It's forte lies in electronic and dance music however, where the beats are reproduced with amazing punch and the samples spring from the mix. This can all be played at high volume without it running out if steam.
I use it with a Rotel 991 cd player and B&W P4's with Van Den Hul D102 III- which definately improves acoustic recordings with its natural sound. The audiolab isn't the ideal choice for the B&W's as they prefer a warmer amp- Musical Fidelity would work well and need an amplifier with more grip than the audilolab, ideally biamped or monoblocked. I am looking at the MF A300 dual mono which should work well.
I would also recommend, wholeheartedly, the use of a LAT AC Power Cord on Audiolab equipment. I purchased one about a fortnight ago and it performed wonders. Increasing the detail, injecting more pizazz and excitement and providing lower bass- GREAT! I suggest everyone owning an Audiolab to go out and purchase one straight away, LATs need Atleast 200 HOURS burn-in (MUST be done), so leave it on. They cost £60 for 1 metre here. Trust me, it is most definately worth it.
I may be upgrading to Tag Maclaren 100 5r soon so watch this space for more reviews. Merry Christmas

Similar Products Used:

Marantz 66se KI signature amp, Audio analogue SE

I picked one up for $495 from audioadvisor. Sleek look, fantastic sound, crisp, clean, punchy bass. It will point out the limitations to the rest of your gear though.