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Kinki Studio EX-M1+
"The true universal integrated amp, period".
The EX-M1+ from KINKI STUDIO is the ultimate universal integrated amplifier, without question. Positioned as the flagship model above the highly acclaimed EX-M1, it boasts a range of sought-after features including a dimmable display, preamp output, and home theater bypass.
THE GOOD OF EX-M1 · PRESERVED
Drawing inspiration from the award-winning EX-M1, the EX-M1+ retains all the positive aspects of its predecessor. It boasts an advanced microprocessor-controlled design, as well as a MUSE volume control and dual 400VA encapsulated transformers.
The quasi-monoblock amplifier stage with EXICON MOSFET lateral is another feature that enhances the EX-M1+'s already outstanding sound quality, renowned for its ultra-fast and dynamic sonic response.
PREAMP OUT · HT BYPASS
The EX-M1+ offers highly anticipated features such as Preamp Output and HT Bypass, but with a unique twist. The Preamp Output can be conveniently enabled or disabled using the redesigned Remote Control Unit.
This feature enables the EX-M1+ to function as a standalone preamp, or an integrated amp where the preamp output can be connected to a subwoofer or our monoblocks EX-B7 for bi-amping loudspeakers.
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+ is a dual‑mono, high‑power integrated amplifier that pairs 215W/8Ω muscle with a remarkably transparent, three‑dimensional soundstage. Reviewers from Dean Cacioppo / Enjoy The Music and Steve Crowe / Pursuit Perfect System highlight its pinpoint imaging, low noise floor and airy treble, while others note its exceptionally clean transient response and enormous damping factor. The thick brushed‑aluminum case, hefty 25kg build and smart rear layout reflect high‑end construction, and functions like HT‑bypass and preamp‑only mode make it system‑flexible. Ideal for listeners who prize resolution, depth and control over warm tube coloration, the EX‑M1+ is repeatedly called a compelling value and a practical alternative to far more expensive separates.
Pros
- Standout soundstage and imaging — wide, deep and highly stable three‑dimensional presentation.
- Ultra‑low noise and transparent top end with fast, controlled transients (high S/N and low distortion).
- Robust, high‑quality construction and practical flexibility — dual‑mono topology, solid connectors, HT bypass and preamp‑only mode.
- Excellent price‑to‑performance for its power and capabilities — frequently described as a bargain at its price point.
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Cons
- Bass can be reserved or slightly lean on some speakers and may lose a bit of weight when used via HT bypass/power‑amp only.
- Purist feature set — no onboard DAC, phono stage or headphone output, and a relatively small selection of inputs for those who want an all‑in‑one unit.
- Minor ergonomic/operational foibles reported (remote labeling and feel, display/HT‑bypass behavior and volume default on power‑up).
Sound Quality
92/100
Dynamics
91/100
With 215W/8Ω (290W/4Ω), a dual‑mono topology and an enormous damping factor (~2000), reviewers consistently report fast, controlled transient response and exceptional low‑noise headroom. A few reviewers noted a ceiling at extreme volumes and slightly reduced slam vs large separates on some tracks, so dynamics are excellent overall but not absolutely reference-level limitless.
Soundstage Imaging
94/100
Soundstage and imaging are repeatedly singled out as a standout: wide, deep, three‑dimensional, highly stable and well organized, with excellent channel separation due to the dual‑mono design. Several reviewers used strong language (layers, palpable images, pinpoint placement) indicating best‑in‑class presentation for its price.
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Build Quality
93/100
Solid, heavy 25kg construction, thick brushed aluminium case, clean internal layout and high quality connectors (Furutech inlet noted) — reviewers praise the mechanical feel and finish. Dual‑mono internal design, large transformers/capacitors and quality remote further support a high build standard.
Features Connectivity
86/100
Purist, all‑analog feature set: 3x RCA, 1x XLR input, HT bypass, preamp output and speaker binding posts; no DAC, phono, digital inputs or onboard headphone jack. Useful flexibility (preamp-only mode, sub/pre outputs, remote, display dim and grounding/filter switches) lifts it above a barebones unit but it remains intentionally minimalist.
Value for Money
94/100
At roughly US$2,898 reviewers repeatedly call the EX-M1+ a bargain or excellent value, noting world‑class sonic and build quality for the price and recommending it over feature‑heavy but sonically inferior alternatives. Multiple reviewers explicitly praised its price/performance and recommended the unit strongly.
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