Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Applied Research and Technology SLA-1 Amplifier (SS) by Chris R

Model:	SLA-1
Category:	Amplifier (SS)
Suggested Retail Price:	$300 USD
Description:	100 Watt Amp: unbalanced TRS/balanced XLR inputs, bridgeable, ground lift,,variable sensitivity
Manufacturer URL:	Applied Research and Technology
Model Picture:	View

Review by Chris R ( A ) on July 22, 2005 at 19:09:14
IP Address: 24.74.110.25

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This amp can be had for $170, and that's what it is worth. It is not in the same league as $300-$600 "hi-fi" amps. It is bright, it is not refined, and it does not image well. If you're looking for a bargain, the ART does not qualify. A Samson Servo 170 or 260 at equal price is head and shoulders above the SLA-1, imho.

Product Weakness: bright, low reserves, poor imaging...
Product Strengths: price

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	ADCOM 5300 - Samson 260
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Adcom 710
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Yamaha cd/dvd - MSB DAC III
Speakers:	Magnepan MG12
Cables/Interconnects:	Zu
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	OPUS selection
Room Size (LxWxH):	18 x 14 x 8
Room Comments/Treatments:	Front wall covered w/ auralex tiles
Time Period/Length of Audition:	40 days
Type of Audition/Review:	Home Audition

Product Weakness:	bright, low reserves, poor imaging...
Product Strengths:	price