In this video collaboration with Tarun, (aka A British Audiophile) we pick our favorite streaming amplifiers so far in 2022 in the mid tier priced category, between $1000 to $4,000.
The term “streaming amplifier” denotes an integrated amplifier with digital music streaming capabilities built-in. Such a component adds two key elements — a DAC (digital-to-analog converter) and a network interface (Wi-Fi and/or Ethernet) for connecting to the Internet. An internal operating system determines what music services are supported and how easy they are use.
How well an integrated amplifier combines traditional amplification with the usability and convenience of streaming digital music is what sets these picks apart from the pack. Interestingly, it’s the software and app usability that seals the deal for both of our winners.
Naim Uniti Atom
Being a trend setter isn’t always easy because there will be plenty of copies going forward, but the Naim Uniti Atom is still the king of the castle in the network amplifier category. It doesn’t offer a phono pre-amp or mountains of power — but it just works better than anything else and we could touch that dial forever.
Where to buy: $3,799 at Amazon
Learn more in our Naim Uniti Atom Review.
NAD M10 V2
The NAD Masters M10 V2 BluOS Streaming Amplifier offers a lot for less money than the Naim and some excellent sonics along the way. It isn’t as “pretty” as the Uniti Atom but it gets the job done and the BluOS app keeps getting better with each passing year.
Where to buy: $2,749 at Crutchfield
Affordable Alternatives
In the under $1,000 streaming amp category, refer to our favorite picks in our best budget integrated amps article and video, which includes best budget streaming amps near the bottom of the article.
Related reading: Best Integrated Amps below $3,000 (mid tier) without streaming.
ORT
April 8, 2022 at 12:53 am
By my faith, I canna believe ye have left the gorgeous Marantz 40n owt o’ this mix!
’tis doubtless the Grail o’ any group o’ integrated amps, laddie and therefore shouldna been left owt! Penance I would give ye but alas, I fear ye are lost to the Naimless One and given o’er to the Dark Side o’ the Farce…For now.
ORT
Ian White
April 8, 2022 at 2:03 pm
ORT,
Until I try at home…I can’t include.
Ian
ORT
April 9, 2022 at 1:36 am
Ummmmm…I thought you did just that and wrote about here it on Feb. 15th, 2022?
It was a good review too.
ORT
Ian White
April 9, 2022 at 2:30 am
ORT,
The Marantz? That wasn’t a formal review. I spent a few hours with it in two systems but I don’t consider it the same as the Naim which I had at home for 3 months.
The Marantz was very impressive based on that experience but until I have it at home with my own speakers — the Naim holds onto its title.
Best,
Ian
Justin
April 8, 2022 at 11:43 am
One concern I would have with the Naim is dust collecting on top.
Ian White
April 8, 2022 at 2:01 pm
Justin,
Valid but I use a soft cloth with it.
Ian