Audiolab 6000A MKII Review – The Audiolab 6000A MKII Integrated Amplifier pushes the boundaries of accessible high-fidelity, merging decades of innovation with modern enhancements drawn from Audiolab’s flagship 9000A and versatile 7000A models. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or stepping up from entry-level gear, this amplifier brings precision, power and pristine DAC performance at a price point that demands attention.

Design & Legacy

Visually, the 6000A MKII retains the sleek, minimalist aesthetic of its predecessor, ensuring seamless rack or shelf integration alongside other 6000, 7000 and 9000 series components. Under the bonnet, however, it’s a different story: meticulous circuit refinements and a beefed-up power supply elevate its sonic signature to new heights.

Power Supply & Class AB Amplification

At the heart of the MKII lies a substantial 200VA toroidal transformer feeding four 15 000µF reservoir capacitors (30 000µF per rail). The result is rock-steady voltage delivery, low impedance under load and tight bass control that belies its price. Unlike many rivals chasing Class D efficiency, the 6000A MKII embraces Class AB operation with a Complementary Feedback (CFB) topology. You benefit from warm, natural tonality, 50W per channel into 8 Ω (75W into 4 Ω) and a peak current capacity of 11 A to wrestle demanding speaker loads into submission.

Next-Level DAC Technology

Audiolab has upgraded the digital stage with the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M chipset, offering 32-bit/768 kHz PCM decoding. The HyperStream® II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator ensure ultra-low noise and exceptional dynamic range, while a new Class A active filter stage – inherited from the 7000A – adds refinement to every musical nuance. From the subtlest reverb tail to thunderous orchestral crescendos, playback is engagingly rich and detailed.

Connectivity & Flexibility

• Four S/PDIF inputs (2× optical, 2× coaxial) and HDMI ARC for seamless AV integration
• Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX/aptX HD for high-resolution wireless streaming
• Three analogue RCA inputs plus a dedicated MM phono stage with precision RIAA equalisation
• Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier for dynamic, detailed headphone listening
• Multi-functional modes: Integrated, Pre, and unique Pre-Power configuration for external processing or AV processor pairing

Technical Highlights

• 2×50 W into 8 Ω / 2×75 W into 4 Ω (THD <1%)
• THD <0.0004% (preamp), <0.003% (power amp at 50 W/8 Ω)
• S/N >110 dB (Line), >116 dB at DAC (A-weighted)
• 32-bit ES9038Q2M DAC, 768 kHz PCM support

Who Should Consider the 6000A MKII?

If you’re upgrading from a consumer-grade receiver or first-generation integrated, the 6000A MKII delivers a step-up experience without the sticker shock of ultra-high-end separates. It’s ideal for:

• Analogue purists who value a precise MM phono stage
• Digital enthusiasts seeking top-tier DAC performance
• Home cinema fans wanting HDMI ARC support
• Headphone devotees who demand low noise and high dynamics

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Class AB warmth with lashings of detail, flagship-grade ESS Sabre DAC, robust power supply and dynamic control, versatile connectivity (HDMI ARC, aptX HD), minimal noise phono and headphone amps.
• Cons: No network streaming (rely on source device), 50 W may suit modest speakers best, traditional analogue styling might not suit ultra-modern AV racks.

Elevate Your Audio Journey

The Audiolab 6000A MKII Integrated Amplifier stands as a testament to what accessible audiophile amplification can achieve. With an exceptional DAC, refined power stage and thoughtful feature set, it rivals units at twice the price. Ready to transform your listening room? Speak with our team at The Audio Tailor on 1300 308 711 or email us for personalised advice. Explore full specifications and secure yours via our Audiolab 6000A MKII product page today.