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YBA GENESIS IA3A INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
The IA3A integrated amplifier was the recipient of a French 2016 Choc Classica award’
Full explanation on YBA’s balanced input output
Read the StereoNet UK review
The addition of Bluetooth to the Genesis range of products added a level of excitement to the legendary YBA hi-fi brand. Without too much trouble, a user can simply pair with whatever device may be preferred (phone, tablet etc.) and be listening to music in no time at all!
The preamplifier offers so much more however …. the IA3A is equipped with one S/PDIF (75 ) COAXIAL digital input, USB (24/192KHz) as well as Bluetooth to receive digital signals from separate digital components. All digital inputs automatically adjust to any of the standard digital-audio datarates from 16/44.1 KHz to 24/192 KHz. There is one digital output plus a pre-out option to use a subwoofer, a separate power amplifier or active speakers.
The preamplifier allows the connection of 2 RCA input sources, where the video input has a bypass option. There is also a balanced input. Should you wish, you can disconnect power to the digital section of your IA3A when using an analogue source. Remember to re-engage this switch when using any digital input.
The addition of Bluetooth to the Genesis range of products added a level of excitement to the legendary YBA hi-fi brand. Without too much trouble, a user can simply pair with whatever device may be preferred (phone, tablet etc.) and be listening to music in no time at all!
The preamplifier offers so much more however …. the IA3A is equipped with one S/PDIF (75 ) COAXIAL digital input, USB (24/192KHz) as well as Bluetooth to receive digital signals from separate digital components. All digital inputs automatically adjust to any of the standard digital-audio datarates from 16/44.1 KHz to 24/192 KHz. There is one digital output plus a pre-out option to use a subwoofer, a separate power amplifier or active speakers.
The preamplifier allows the connection of 2 RCA input sources, where the video input has a bypass option. There is also a balanced input. Should you wish, you can disconnect power to the digital section of your IA3A when using an analogue source. Remember to re-engage this switch when using any digital input.
Genesis IA3 Chinese
Genesis IA3 France CHOC
Genesis IA3 Germany
Genesis IA3 Hong Kong
IMAGE HIFI REVIEW IA3 CD4 02-19 YBA
Read the StereoNet UK review
Genesis IA3 Chinese
Genesis IA3 France CHOC
Genesis IA3 Germany
Genesis IA3 Hong Kong
IMAGE HIFI REVIEW IA3 CD4 02-19 YBA
Read the StereoNet UK review
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YBA GENESIS IA3A INTEGRATED AMPLIFIER
The Genesis IA3A pairs solid-state punch with a warm, musical voice: 105W per channel, a switchable built-in Cirrus Logic CS4398 DAC and aptX Bluetooth give this integrated broad capability for modern systems. Reviewers at HiFi Choice, StereoNET and Audiophilepure note its engaging midband, tuneful, propulsive bass and confident dynamics. Treble is smooth rather than etched, and imaging delivers good width though not extreme holographic depth. The 300VA linear UICore transformer, black acrylic/aluminium fascia and distinctive toggle controls make for a well‑made, charismatic package. Ideal for listeners who prioritise musicality, rhythmic drive and flexible digital/analog connectivity, the IA3A is a compelling high‑end integrated that favors natural, enjoyable playback over forensic dissection.
Pros
- Musical, transparent midrange with strong rhythmic drive and punchy low end.
- Well‑specified, switchable digital section (Cirrus CS4398 DAC, USB 24/192, coaxial I/O and aptX Bluetooth) for versatile source use.
- Attractive build and distinctive user interface—solid aluminium/acrylic finish with tactile toggle controls.
- Generous power and control (105W/8Ω) that suits a wide range of loudspeakers and delivers confident dynamics.
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Cons
- Review sample exhibited a faint mains‑transformer hum that could be audible in very quiet setups.
- Treble can be slightly veiled and less resolving compared with the most revealing rivals.
- Lacks a front‑panel headphone output, which some users expect on a modern integrated.
- Imaging and depth are good but not reference-level; precise placement can be a touch vague versus ultra‑holographic competitors.
Sound Quality
88/100
Dynamics
90/100
Given its solid-state Class-AB-level power (105W/8Ω) reviewers report plenty of drive and rhythmic authority: Audiophilepure and HiFi Choice both mention "lots of power" and "gutsy" low end, while StereoNET says its dynamics punch "above its pay grade." HiFi Choice flags a touch of looseness/grip loss compared with the very best, but overall headroom and pace are repeatedly commended.
Soundstage Imaging
86/100
Imaging and staging are good but not reference-level: StereoNET highlights clarity and ability to render space, whereas HiFi Choice observes staging is "good, if not exceptional" and can be "a little vague" in precise placement. The amp tends to keep images closer to the speaker plane rather than creating deep, highly airy soundstages, so it performs well but without exceptional holographic placement.
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Build Quality
88/100
Finish and engineering are generally praised — StereoNET calls the fit and finish "faultless" and HiFi Choice notes an attractive acrylic/aluminium fascia — indicating high-quality construction. Minor practical issues are reported (HiFi Choice notes a slight mains-transformer hum and Audiophilepure mentions quirky ergonomics), so excellent build quality minus a couple of small annoyances.
Features Connectivity
92/100
Well-equipped for its class: built-in Cirrus Logic CS4398 DAC (switchable off), USB (24/192), coaxial digital I/O, Bluetooth with aptX, two RCA analog inputs, balanced XLR input and an RCA pre-out. The only commonly expected omission is a headphone jack, but the combination of DAC, USB, balanced input and Bluetooth places it among fully-featured integrateds.
Value for Money
89/100
Reviewers frame the IA3A as a justified premium purchase for its performance at its stated price (HiFi Choice lists Price: £3,200). Multiple outlets call it "well worth a listen" or "highly recommended" and note it competes very strongly in its segment, supporting a solid 'worth it' value judgement rather than bargain-level praise.
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