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Edwards Audio IA1
Edwards IA Review HFC August 23 page 1and 2 high resThe all new IA1 is an enhanced version of our Apprentice IA via remote control over Volume and mute.
It is reviewed by Hi-Fi News in the July 2023 edition said “This is an amplifier with an exceptional degree of musical communication for the money” and was awarded Highly Commended.
Gramophone July 2023 edition said “This little amplifier proves quite a breath of fresh air”
It is intended for use is on desk tops or in small rooms and is an ideal introduction to a proper Hi-Fi system, when used with our TT1 or TT2, for young students first system or older users who may live in a small flat.
It is available in our full colour range so you can match it to your Edwards TT of choice, making for a very on trend modern stylish system, just add speakers.
At its heart it has a 25W fully discrete class AB power amplifier section
The pre-amp section is op-amp based which drives a discrete headphone amplifier.
The performance of this little gem of an amplifier will give many bigger rivals a major headache.
Its small 220mm square format makes it ideal for desk top or bedroom/small room applications.
Fully equipped with a dedicated MM Phono input, 3 line inputs, 2 via rear mounted RCA and one front panel mounted 3.5mm Jack.
It also has a dedicated headphone amplifier which automatically mutes the speakers when in use.
Other possible upgrade options include an optional pre-amp output allowing you to upgrade with a better remote power amplifier like our P1 or P4
The IA1 is available in the following colours: Black, Grey, Red, White, Green and Blue.
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Edwards Audio IA1 — Compact, honest amplifier
Small, stylish and musically persuasive, the Edwards Audio IA1 punches above its modest class to deliver lively, well-focused sound for compact systems. Tested by Andrew Everard for HiFi News, the IA1 is handmade in the UK and priced around £430, offering an exceptional degree of musical communication for the money. Sonically it pairs tight, controlled bass with natural midrange and articulate treble, providing strong dynamics from a surprisingly generous power supply despite its 30W-rated output. Imaging and soundstage depth are unusually good for a compact amp, and the MM phono stage and headphone output add versatility. Built with acrylic-over-metal casework and neat internals, it suits vinyl-focused, desktop or small-room systems that prioritise musicality and value.
Pros
- Handmade UK construction with acrylic-over-metal casework and neat internal build that belies the modest price.
- Exceptional musical communication and natural midrange that conveys vocals and keyboards with clarity and character.
- Surprisingly dynamic for a 30W-rated design — generous power supply lends punch and conviction to both speakers and headphones.
- Strong imaging and soundstage depth for its size, plus useful features including an effective MM phono stage and headphone output.
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Cons
- Modest power output — may run out of headroom with inefficient speakers or in very large rooms.
- Relatively basic input set with blanks for an anticipated digital module (no onboard DAC at present).
- Speaker outputs use 4mm banana sockets rather than traditional binding posts, which may limit connection options for some users.
Sound Quality
88/100
Dynamics
87/100
Although the amp is a modest 30W-rated design (with measured output a little shy of that), the reviewer notes a generous power supply that gives the IA1 notable dynamic capability and 'real conviction' driving speakers and headphones. Given its likely Class‑AB small‑power topology, it punches above its nominal rating without running out of steam in typical listening.
Soundstage Imaging
90/100
Reviewer observed good spaciousness and drama on orchestral/choral recordings and 'intense focus' on solo piano, indicating strong depth and image focus. The IA1 images well for its class, delivering convincing staging for both headphone and speaker listening.
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Build Quality
89/100
Unit is 'handmade in the UK' with acrylic over a metal chassis; HiFi News describes it as solidly constructed with neat, logical internal construction. The finish and assembly punch above what its modest price might suggest, reflecting careful workmanship.
Features Connectivity
85/100
Basic but well considered feature set: motorised volume for remote control, rotary input/volume, front 3.5mm line input, full-size 6.35mm headphone jack (which mutes speakers), MM phono stage and two rear line inputs. No digital module fitted yet (blanks present), and speaker outputs use 4mm banana sockets rather than full binding posts—overall a useful, slightly enhanced baseline.
Value for Money
90/100
Reviewer emphasizes that it is 'handmade in the UK' yet costs just £430 and calls it 'very cost-effective' with 'exceptional degree of musical communication for the money.' Strong positive value language supports a high score relative to its segment.
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