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Kinki Studio EX-M1
The EX-M1 is a part of the EX Series, which has been designed to provide a balanced midrange and smooth extension at both the high and low ends, resulting in high-quality sound reproduction. This model is a dual mono design contained within a single chassis, and is fully modular.
It is rich in tonal quality, dynamic range, and high resolution, with a silky smooth volume control system that utilizes the MUSES volume control.
This volume control system is known for its precision and accuracy in adjusting volume levels, due to its use of precision-matched resistors.
JRC MUSES 72320 VOL CONTROL
Unlike most amplifiers that use a potentiometer for volume control, the EX-M1 utilizes an advanced JRC MUSES72320 2-channel electronic volume control that is microprocessor-controlled.
This volume control is optimized for high-end audio and professional audio applications, and is designed with advanced circuitry and layout to ensure optimal performance.
The MUSES72320 is known for its low noise and low distortion characteristics, and it employs a resistance ladder circuit for precision volume adjustment.
QUALITY AND PERFORMANCE OVER COST
The EX-M1 is a cost-no-object design, as evidenced by its use of an extremely high-cost 0.2µm gold-plated printed circuit board (PCB).
The designer has taken into account the limitations of a typical circuit board, and has increased the soldered area at each joint while also adding as much shielding as possible. This ensures optimal performance of the PCB and contributes to the overall high-end audio quality of the device.
In addition, the EX-M1 features two 400VA encapsulated transformers, one for each of the left and right channel power supplies. The dual mono power rails have been designed in such a way as to avoid interference between channels, resulting in improved channel separation and overall audio performance.
This product was designed with the purist, perfectionist, and minimalist in mind, and engineered to meet the highest standards of quality.
HIGH DAMPING MODULAR POWER STAGE
The power amplification circuitry of the device is directly mounted on a custom-made, gold anodized heat sink, providing efficient heat dissipation. The power stage features two pairs of power EXICON MOSFETs, which are driven in Class AB to ensure optimal performance.
The device features two identical power stage modules that are arranged on the left and right sides of the chassis. These modules deliver exceptional power to the two channels, providing 215 watts into 4-8 ohms, ensuring reliable and high-quality audio performance.
The EX-M1 is designed with a high damping factor, which allows for the full potential of the loudspeakers to be unleashed and for optimal sonic performance. The device features high power rail supplies that deliver fast and high recovery DC supply to the power stage, contributing to the overall high-quality audio performance.
The device is also designed with an ultra-high slew rate and is DC-coupled, meaning that there are no capacitors in the signal path. This design feature results in exceptional acoustic performance, with neutral, transparent sound quality, exceptional detail, dynamic range, and ultra-fast transient response.
CRAFTED TO PERFECTION
The EX-M1 boasts an impressive 215 watts RMS power output into 8 ohms, making it one of the few integrated amplifiers in its price range capable of such driving capability. With both channels driven, it can easily power any type of loudspeaker.
The sound signature of the EX-M1 is characterized by a focus on neutrality and musicality, with the goal of achieving rich tonal quality, vivid sound imaging, exceptional detail, high resolution, and dynamic range. These sonic characteristics are the result of careful component selection, thoughtful design, and meticulous tuning, resulting in the distinctive sound signature that is a hallmark of KINKI STUDIO
The Universal Integrated Amp?
Today's Kinki should uncramp your finger and pull that trigger. The EX for 'extreme' in the name isn't idle puffery. It's well deserved. If enough people catch on, this amp will become a classic. For now, it could already be your classic. Classy all around!
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Kinki Studio EX-M1
The Kinki Studio EX-M1 punches well above its class with a muscular yet refined sonic signature. Backed by large dual 300VA transformers and a high damping factor, it delivers tight, tuneful bass, quick transients and a balanced midrange that preserves vocal naturalness. Highs are described as smooth and extended rather than etched, which aids long-term listening. Imaging and soundstage are strengths, offering convincing width, height and depth for orchestral and vocal material. Build-wise the EX-M1 feels substantial (25 kg) with solid binding posts and an R-2R 256-step relay volume attenuator for precise level control. Ideal for music lovers who want power, control and musicality without exotic extras—Marvin Bolden highlights it as a standout value in its price tier.
Pros
- Musical, well-balanced tonal presentation with strong midrange clarity and overall transparency.
- Exceptional low-frequency control and dynamics — tight, impactful bass with good transient speed.
- Precise imaging and convincing soundstage depth and width for ensemble and vocal presentation.
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Cons
- Feature set is modest—basic analogue inputs only (RCA x3, XLR x1) with no onboard DAC, phono or headphone output noted.
- Accessories and cosmetics are basic: reviewer notes a cheap factory power cord and a spare, spartan front panel treatment.
- High-frequency presentation is slightly recessed compared with some more forward-sounding designs, which may not suit listeners who prefer a very bright top end.
Sound Quality
92/100
Dynamics
92/100
The reviewer notes 'tight tuneful bass, good transient speed' and 'bone shaking' low-end impact on tracks that are not normally chest-thumping, implying ample headroom and control relative to its class. Spec'd power (215W/8Ω, 290W/4Ω) and a very high damping factor (2000) support strong dynamic control and punch. There are no comments about strain or lack of headroom, so dynamics are rated very highly for a Class AB/high-power integrated.
Soundstage Imaging
91/100
Reviewer reports 'pinpoint stereo imaging' and a soundstage with convincing width, height and depth, noting orchestra depth and stable images. The only mild note is that the stage 'lays just behind the back of the speaker enclosure', but this is not presented as a deficit to realism. Imaging and depth are clearly strengths in listening impressions.
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Build Quality
90/100
Physical evidence and review: the unit is heavy (25 kg), uses two 300VA transformers (one per channel) and arrived with solid binding posts and good-quality RCAs; packaging and included remote noted. These indicate robust construction and a substantial power supply; only minor mention of a 'cheap power cord' tempers an otherwise strong build impression.
Features Connectivity
83/100
Baseline feature set is modest: RCA x3 and XLR x1 inputs and speaker binding posts. Positives include a microprocessor-controlled, relay-based R-2R 256-step volume attenuator and balanced XLR input; review notes remote included. No phono stage, no built-in DAC/streaming, no headphone outputs are mentioned, so the feature score is modestly above baseline.
Value for Money
90/100
Reviewer repeatedly frames performance relative to price: 'goes lower and tighter than many in or way above its price range' and calls it 'a no-nonsense choice for those... [without deep pockets]'. Given the praise for sound and dynamics at the listed price (~$2,686), reviewers present the EX-M1 as a justify-the-price offering in its segment.
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