93%
Ch Precision A1.5 Two-channel Power Amplifier
Faced with exactly the same challenges as the M1.1, the A1.5 embodies the same sophisticated, modular and scalable approach. It might be (slightly) smaller than the M1.1 and around two-thirds of its weight, but it’s still four amplifiers in one. It still offers the same adaptable, software controlled topology, adjustable input configuration and gain, user selectable global feedback ratio and cost-effective upgrade path. It offers exactly the same, incredibly short signal path, fully discrete, fully balanced and fully complementary circuit, built with the same carefully selected components to the same exacting standards. Even the casework, although shorter, has the same footprint, uses the same construction and includes the same mechanical grounding/stacking system. In fact, in every important way, the A1.5 is, quite literally, an M1.1 writ small – or, in Hollywood terms, “Honey, I shrank the amp…”.
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Ch Precision A1.5 Two-channel Power Amplifier
The A1.5 pairs refined musicality with formidable control: a purpose-built supply and high-current output stages deliver punchy, tight low end while preserving exceptional clarity. Its pure Class A input stage, DC-coupled signal path and user-adjustable global-feedback let listeners tailor damping and tonal balance for different loudspeakers. Reviewers from Audiophilepure and HiFi Advice highlighted its transparency, natural timbre and large-scale imaging, crediting the design for lifelike vocals and piano. Built with heavy isolation, shielded transformers and vast reservoir capacitance, the A1.5 is engineered for demanding speakers and flexible system roles (stereo, bi-amp, bridged or mono). For audiophiles seeking a highly controllable, sonically neutral amplifier that still moves with authority, the A1.5 is a compelling high-end choice.
Pros
- Outstanding transparency and timbral realism that renders vocals and piano with convincing presence and texture.
- Powerful, well-controlled bass and dynamic slam supported by a 1,700VA transformer and large reservoir capacitors.
- Highly flexible user controls and modular inputs — adjustable global/local feedback and input boards let you optimize amp–speaker interaction and bi-amp configurations.
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Cons
- Premium price and, while class-leading in many respects, it doesn’t fully eclipse much more expensive reference amplifiers in ultimate refinement.
Sound Quality
93/100
Dynamics
93/100
Very strong dynamic performance driven by a large 1,700VA transformer, twin 82,000µF reservoirs and high-current capability (2x150W/8Ω stereo; much higher into low impedances and bridged modes). Reviewers praised tight, deep, articulate bass and expressive transient slam (HiFi Advice: "tight, deep, articulate yet sonorous"); Audiophilepure noted it falls just short of the very highest reference amps in ultimate relaxation and absolute grip, which supports a top-tier but not absolute-reference dynamics rating.
Soundstage Imaging
94/100
Multiple reviewers reported a marked improvement in focus, channel separation and vocal imaging (HiFi Advice: vocals "lifelike and completely decoupled", with a "superb sense of presence"). The combination of low noise, wide bandwidth and high control translates into very stable, large-scale soundstaging even with demanding speakers.
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Build Quality
95/100
Top-tier engineering: heavy transformer mounted on isolated chassis bed, magnetically/electrostatically shielded, ExactBias circuitry, extensive monitoring and large custom low-ESR capacitor banks indicate excellent construction and thermal/power management. Modular input boards and robust binding posts are consistent with pro-level build; unit is a stereo two-channel design with strong bridged/mono options rather than true monoblock construction.
Value for Money
86/100
At US$39,500 the A1.5 sits in high-end territory; reviewers emphasize sonic gains and synergy with premium speakers but do not explicitly call out pricing as a bargain or a steal. Given the amplifier's power (2x150W into 8Ω, up to 550W bridged into 8Ω and very high current into low impedances), advanced topology and build quality, the price is defensible for its segment but not presented by reviewers as an exceptional value compared with much more expensive reference gear.
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