The Musical Fidelity A1 is ideal for those seeking a good sound system with a vintage soul and modern reliability. Its pure Class A operation delivers a warm, detailed sound that brings out the best in your music, whether you’re spinning vinyl or streaming digital tracks in your home sound system. Despite its modest 25W output, the A1’s ability to drive difficult speakers makes it a versatile choice for a hi-fi stereo system, solving the problem of pairing classic sound with modern setups. The updated power supply and low-noise components ensure a cleaner, more dynamic listening experience, perfect for audiophiles who value musicality over raw power in their home cinema or listening room.

The A1 is a faithful reissue of a hi-fi icon, blending the charm of its 1985 design with modern enhancements like an updated transformer and power supplies. Its robust build and pure Class A topology make it a standout choice for anyone serious about hi-fi audio. Whether you missed out on the original or simply want a reliable, updated version, the A1 delivers a listening experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh, perfect for any audiophile’s home sound system.

Technical Specifications for Musical Fidelity A1 Integrated Amplifier

General Specifications

• Type: Integrated amplifier with pure Class A topology
• Design: Discrete symmetrical circuitry with dynamic Class A operation
• Finish: Black with classic 1985-inspired design

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: 440 mm (W) x 68 mm (H) x 283 mm (D, including connectors)
• Weight: 10.5 kg

Power Output

• Power Output (8 ohms): 25W per channel (pure Class A)
• Power Output (4 ohms): 50W per channel (dynamic Class B operation)
• Maximum Output Current: 25A peak

Audio Performance

• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD + Noise): < 0.05% (20 Hz–20 kHz)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (S/N): > 82 dB (A-weighted)
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz–40 kHz (+0, -1 dB)
• Channel Separation: > 60 dB (20 Hz–20 kHz)

Inputs

• Line Inputs: 5 x RCA (Aux 1, Aux 2, Aux 3, Tuner, Tape)
• Phono Input: 1 x RCA (MM, moving magnet)
• Input Sensitivity (Line): 300 mV RMS
• Input Sensitivity (Phono): 3 mV RMS
• Input Impedance (Line): 100 kΩ
• Input Impedance (Phono): 47 kΩ

Outputs

• Speaker Outputs: 1 pair of binding posts (suitable for 4 mm banana plugs, spades, or bare wire)
• Tape Output: 1 x RCA (fixed output)
• Preamp Output: Not available

Phono Stage

• Type: Moving Magnet (MM) phono stage
• Gain: 40 dB
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (Phono): > 70 dB (A-weighted)

Power Supply

• Transformer: Updated dual mono split rail windings for improved efficiency
• Power Supply Design: Independent left and right power supplies for better stereo imaging
• Capacitance: Double supply capacity per channel to reduce ripple and noise
• Mains Voltage: 230V–240V (50/60 Hz)
• Power Consumption: 130W (maximum)

Additional Features

• Volume Control: High-quality ALPS RK series potentiometer
• Circuit Layout: Faithful to the 1985 design with improved component placement
• Protection: Thermal protection (note: amplifier runs hot due to Class A operation)
• Cooling: Passive cooling with top-mounted heatsinks
• Feet: Rubber feet for stability and vibration reduction

Materials and Build

• Chassis: Steel chassis with aluminium front panel
• Connectors: Gold-plated RCA inputs and speaker terminals
• Shielding: Minimal shielding (consistent with original design)