Aavik U180, U280, and U580 integrated amplifiers
Darkz T2 Resonance Control
So far, I have listened to each amplifier with the Ansuz T2 Resonance Control footers. From my recent Ansuz review of the D2 and D-TC Power Distributors, I know that their influence is not to be underestimated but still, I wasn’t prepared for hearing such a large reduction in performance with the feet removed. I mean, the amplifier still portrayed the music with all the aforementioned facets but they were all reduced to the point of making the U-580 sans feet sound almost like the U-180 with feet. Such is their contribution that I would consider them mandatory with the purchase of either of these amplifiers. Yes, even the U-180. I realize that 3200 euros may seem like a ridiculous amount of money to spend on something seemingly as trivial as a set of footers but their influence is arguably even larger than the difference between the U-280 and the U-580. Ultimately, the best sound is achieved by going for the top model U-580 and using it with the T2 footers.
Price Points
8.998 Euros for the U-180 is not pocket change but it is fair for what’s offered, considering the very high-quality built-in DAC. And if you can live without the digital inputs, the I-180 can be yours for an even more reasonable 5.995 euros. At that price point, Aavik offers great value for money. At the U-180’s price point, however, there is competition from the likes of Mark Levinson, AVM, Luxman, and Accuphase, to name just a handful, of which most also offer built-in DACs.
A price hike of 6.000 euros for the U-280 (14.995) may seem disproportionate for what is the exact same product but with more of Ansuz’ Tesla Coil technology. But Aavik really did their homework with this and the extra measures do absolutely deliver. I’m not sure if I’d still regard it as good value for money but there is no denying that this amp’s performance is several notches above the U-180. If your wallet will stretch to it, the U-280 is the one to get.
At 29.995 euros, the U-580 is most definitely extravagantly-priced. While this is the best-sounding model of the three, the reality is that there is strong competition at this price point. Accuphase’s Class-A top models spring to mind, as well as integrated amplifiers from brands such Analog Domain, CH Precision, and Goldmund. The list grows exponentially when including pre-power combo solutions and one could even assemble a high-quality DAC-Preamp-Power amp system. However, one should also add the significant cost of all the extra cables that will be required.
When the objective is a one-stop solution and 30k is within reach, then it’s worth adding the U-580 to the (very short) shortlist. But for many prospective buyers, the U-280 is a saner choice. Just make sure not to listen to the U-580 as it will spoil you!
Conclusion
With the U-180, U280, and U-580, Aavik has introduced a very interesting range of amplifiers with very distinctive aesthetics and a fabulously large display. Nay-sayers will comment on the Pascal modules that are used but Aavik truly elevates these modules’ base performance with their Tesla Coils and overall technical know-how. Contrary to expectations, these amplifiers sound surprisingly potent and solid, and tonally full, with excellent resolution and a great built-in DAC.
As you move up the model range, what you get is an ever-increasing sense of spaciousness, soundstage depth, and liquidity. In this respect, it can be dangerous to listen to a higher-up model that you can’t really afford. The biggest step is arguably made from U-180 to U-280 in terms of added soundstage depth and overall richness while the U-580 further increases the liquidity and raises the neutrality and transparency.
If the wallet stretches, do not hesitate to add a set of Darkz T2. Such is their contribution that I would consider them mandatory with the purchase of either of these amplifiers. Yes, even the U-180. Be forewarned, just as with the amplifier models, each successive Darkz model brings further sonic improvements. So, if they are financially out of reach then do not try them at home as you will be spoiled!
External Links
Distributor for the Netherlands: Ohm Audio
Manufacturer: Aavik
Ohm Audio
Open by appointment
Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 – 18:00
Zernikepark 21
9747 AP Groningen
Phone line 1 : +31 (0)6-38027736
Phone line 2 : +31 (0)6-38027745
Email : i n f o @ o h m – a u d i o . n l
Hello Christiaan, thanks a lot for your review… very helpful.
Have you tried also other filters (non-upsampling/fast or slow) or do you think that the default one (upsampled/slow) is the best when combined with the Aavik streamer?
Thank you
I’m not 100% sure now but I believe I tried them and found either the default best or the difference very subtle.
Hello Christiaan,
Some questions about the u180
I’ve read the article and did see the following line: “ It avoids sounding clinical or overly technical but it does sound quite controlled and it is not the sunniest or emotionally most engaging performer in the business.”
It does have the ability to bring over the emotion in a song?
You also state that it is a darker sounding amplifier. Do you mean it has some “meat-on-the-bones”?
Would it be a good amplifier for rock and metal?
How would you recon it holds up against Naim? (Current set up is a Naim NAC-N272 with a 250-2 power amp)
Thank you.
Rene
I find the U180 to be technically correct but not hugely emotional or lyrical. By dark, I mean that the treble appears rolled-off. Of course, when measured, that won’t be the case, but it does sound like that. None of the three sound lean and all have proper meat on the bones. I’m not a rock or metal person so I can’t really tell you if these amps would work well with those genres. It also depends on which aspects you value most. I have not heard Naim amplifiers in my system, so, afraid I can’t be of much help beyond this.