Electrocompaniet AW 800 M REFERENCE MONOBLOCK POWER AMPLIFIER

Hifi Pig found the AW 800 M detailed across the frequency range without harshness, while SoundStage praised its clean, resolving and glare-free treble. Fidelity likewise found fine internal textures readily available, though not spotlighted. Stereophile heard less black space between notes and an omnipresent veil that softened color contrasts, indicating that resolution is presented smoothly rather than with maximum incisiveness.

The amplifier is repeatedly praised for its warm, full-bodied, musically engaging voice, with beautiful timbres and a smooth, sweet midrange. Stereophile found cello uncannily real and admired its natural timbres, while Fidelity called its piano reproduction incredibly organic and smooth. Several reviewers note a slight upper-bass/lower-midrange emphasis, giving instruments and voices extra body, bloom, and inviting warmth.

Dynamic performance draws especially emphatic praise. Hifi Pig called the amplifiers hugely dynamic, fast, and immediately responsive, while Audiodrom admired both massive orchestral swings and fine instrumental gradations. Stereophile was struck by the dynamic variation and nuance recovered from an old recording, and reviewers report effortless authority at elevated levels with demanding loudspeakers.

Reviewers describe an expansive and stable spatial presentation, with sound detached from the loudspeakers, wide-open layering, and strong image focus. SoundStage heard a slightly laid-back but fully liberated stage, while Fidelity praised immense dimensions, precise placement, and images extending convincingly behind the speakers. Hifi Pig also found stereo images and small details more clearly exposed than through lesser systems.

The AW 800 M is extensively engineered for high-current delivery, using two shielded 800VA toroidal transformers, a 210,000µF filter bank, and 32 output transistors. Its strengthened modular chassis, mechanically substantial housing, and mono, stereo, and bi-amp operating options reflect serious system flexibility. Measurements also confirm exceptionally low noise and distortion alongside output beyond its rated maximum, although Stereophile advises providing adequate ventilation because the amplifier can run hot.

At roughly €21,500 per unit and with pricing rising substantially in some markets, the AW 800 M remains a major investment. Nevertheless, SoundStage found it performed marvellously at a little over half the cost of its reference amplifier and never left the reviewer feeling short-changed. Audiodrom also regards its flexible operating modes as a future-proof advantage, though reviewers acknowledge that the asking price places it beyond many buyers.