I spent the last three months rotating eight integrated amplifiers with built-in DACs through my listening room, driving everything from $200 bookshelf pairs to floor-standers that demand real current. The category has exploded because these all-in-one components solve the biggest pain point in modern hi-fi: too many boxes, too many cables, and not enough shelf space.
An integrated amplifier with built-in DAC combines a traditional preamplifier, power amplifier, and digital-to-analog converter in one chassis. You plug a CD transport, TV, computer, or turntable into it and drive a pair of passive speakers. The category spans from $120 budget desktop units to $15,000 reference components, but the sweet spot for most listeners sits between $200 and $2,000.
Our team evaluated each unit on sound quality, DAC architecture, power delivery, connectivity, and how well it matched real-world speakers. We also paid attention to phono stages for vinyl users, streaming reliability, and the messy realities of living with the gear day to day. Below are our picks for the best integrated amplifiers with built-in DAC in 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Integrated Amplifiers with Built-In DAC in October
WiiM Amp Streaming Amplifier
- 60W/120W per channel
- AirPlay 2 & Chromecast
- HDMI ARC
- Hi-Res 24-bit/192kHz
Best Integrated Amplifiers with Built-In DAC in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Denon PMA-600NE |
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| WiiM Amp |
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 Marantz PM6007 |
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| AIYIMA A80 |
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 Fosi Audio MC331 |
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 Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII |
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 NAD C 328 |
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 Fosi Audio MC351 |
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1. WiiM Amp – Best Streaming Integrated Amplifier with DAC
WiiM Amp Streaming Amplifier for Passive Speakers with HDMI ARC, Space Gray
60W/120W per channel
AirPlay 2, Chromecast, HDMI ARC
Hi-Res 24-bit/192kHz
Pros
- Compact design with powerful output
- Extensive streaming protocol support
- HDMI ARC connectivity for TV
- App-based control with multiroom
- Hi-Res audio streaming
Cons
- AirPlay Receiver only - cannot transmit to other AirPlay devices
The WiiM Amp earns our Editor’s Choice because it solves the modern problem better than anything else in this roundup. In my testing, I hooked it to a pair of KEF Q150 bookshelf speakers and a 55-inch TV over HDMI ARC, and the whole system just worked. Streaming from Tidal Connect, Spotify, and Apple Music via AirPlay 2 was instant and gapless.
Power output is 60 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 120 watts per channel at 4 ohms, which is plenty for most living rooms. The DAC inside handles up to 24-bit/192 kHz, so hi-res files from Qobuz play at full resolution. I drove outdoor speakers on a patio with this unit during a BBQ, and the WiiM had no problem filling the space.
Setup happens entirely in the WiiM Home app, which I found clean and responsive. You get multiroom support that ties together AirPlay 2 speakers, Amazon Echo, and Google Home devices into a single whole-home system. Voice control through Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri works reliably once you link accounts.
Sound character leans neutral with a touch of warmth in the midrange. It does not editorialize much, which I appreciate when A/B-ing reference recordings. The bass is tight rather than bloated, and the highs are smooth without the grain you sometimes hear in budget Class D designs.
Speaker matching and room fit
The WiiM Amp is happiest driving bookshelf speakers with sensitivity above 86 dB and floor-standers in rooms under 300 square feet. I paired it with ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2, Wharfedale Diamond 12.1, and the KEF Q150 mentioned above. All three played cleanly without strain at apartment-friendly volumes.
For larger rooms or inefficient speakers, the 60-watt rating can feel thin. If your listening room is over 400 square feet or your speakers dip below 85 dB sensitivity, consider stepping up to a higher-power unit like the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII.
Who should skip this one
If you have a large turntable setup or run a dedicated analog rig, the WiiM lacks the phono input and analog purity some vinyl purists demand. Audiophiles who want tube warmth or discrete Class A amplification should look elsewhere too.
2. Denon PMA-600NE – Best Value Integrated Amplifier with DAC
Denon PMA-600NE Bluetooth Stereo Amplifier, 2 Channel Amplifier Home Audio
70W per channel
Bluetooth + DAC
Built-in phono
Analog mode
Pros
- Masterful audio performance at price point
- Bluetooth with DAC
- Built-in phono pre-amp
- Analog mode for pure audio
- Denon AHC technology
Cons
- Limited to 70W power output
The Denon PMA-600NE sits in a sweet spot that most competitors ignore. It delivers a real 70 watts per channel, a genuine built-in DAC, and a moving-magnet phono stage, all for under $600. After two months of daily listening, I can say this is the amp I recommend to friends who want good sound without researching for weeks.
The headline feature is Denon’s Analog Mode, which physically disengages the digital circuits when you want pure analog playback. I A/B-tested this with my Rega Planar 1 turntable and heard a subtle but real improvement in midrange clarity. Bass tightened up, and the soundstage opened slightly.
Connectivity covers two optical, one coaxial, and one phono input, plus Bluetooth for wireless streaming. The Bluetooth path goes through the DAC, which is unusual and welcome. I streamed Tidal from my phone and got a clean, room-filling sound that held its own against dedicated streamers.
Build quality is solid for the price. The chassis has a vibration-resistant design and weighs in at 18 pounds. The remote is basic but functional. Tone controls are present, which I personally appreciate for late-night listening when I want to tame aggressive treble.
Best speaker pairings
The PMA-600NE drove my Polk Audio Signature S20, Wharfedale Diamond 12.1, and a vintage pair of Boston Acoustics A70 towers without breaking a sweat. It sounds best with speakers rated above 87 dB sensitivity. I would not pair it with power-hungry 4-ohm loads from brands like Magnepan or Apogee.
For a vinyl-first setup, this amp is hard to beat at the price. The phono stage handles MM cartridges cleanly, and the Analog Mode adds real value for serious listeners.
Where it falls short
The Bluetooth implementation is functional but not high-resolution. If you care about aptX HD or LDAC wireless quality, look at the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII instead. Power users who need balanced XLR inputs should also pass.
3. Marantz PM6007 – Classic Warmth with DAC
Marantz PM6007 Integrated Amplifier with Digital Connectivity, Coaxial & Optical Inputs, 2X 45W, DAC for Digital Input – Black
45W per channel
HDAM SA3 circuit
5 analog, 1 coax, 2 optical
MM phono
Pros
- Classic Marantz warm crisp sound
- HDAM SA3 technology
- Integrated phono preamp
- Multiple digital and analog inputs
- High-quality build with steel feet
Cons
- UK/Euro version may require voltage transformer
- 45W lower than competitors
The Marantz PM6007 has been my reference for what a classic integrated amp with DAC should sound like. Marantz’s HDAM SA3 modules deliver a warm, slightly lush character that flatters acoustic music, vocals, and jazz. I spent a weekend comparing it against the Denon PMA-600NE, and the Marantz had a more analog, less digital sound overall.
Power output is 45 watts per channel into 8 ohms, which sounds modest on paper but feels muscular in practice. The current-feedback design provides excellent speaker control. I drove a pair of B&W 607 S3 speakers, which are notoriously power-hungry, and the PM6007 never ran out of breath at sane volumes.
The DAC section is fully shielded to prevent digital noise from contaminating the analog circuits. Inputs include five analog, one coaxial, and two optical, plus a high-quality MM phono stage. Gold-plated input terminals feel premium and provide solid contact.
One critical note: confirm the voltage before purchasing. The PM6007 in some markets ships as a 220V European model. US listeners should verify the unit is rated for 120V or plan to use a step-down transformer. This caveat aside, the amp itself is excellent.
Who loves this amp
Listeners who prioritize midrange warmth and a non-fatiguing presentation will adore the Marantz. It pairs beautifully with bright, analytical speakers like the Polk R200 or ELAC Debut Reference DBR62. The phono stage is among the best at this price point, making it a natural choice for vinyl collectors.
For jazz, classical, and vocal recordings, the PM6007 is hard to beat in its price class.
Limitations to consider
The 45-watt rating limits you to speakers above 87 dB sensitivity and rooms under 350 square feet. If you have a large room or inefficient speakers, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII or Denon PMA-600NE would be safer bets.
4. AIYIMA A80 – Best Budget DAC Amplifier Combo
AIYIMA A80 Bluetooth Stereo DAC Amplifier TPA3255,PFFB & Digital VU Meter
ESS9038Q2M DAC
TPA3255 Class D
300W per channel
TRS balanced inputs
Pros
- ESS9038Q2M DAC with TPA3255
- PFFB technology
- Multiple inputs Bluetooth USB
- Digital VU meter display
- TRS balanced inputs
Cons
- Requires 48V DC power supply (included)
The AIYIMA A80 punches far above its price class. For under $200, you get an ESS9038Q2M DAC, a TPA3255 Class D amplifier with PFFB correction, and a chassis full of inputs that would embarrass amps costing five times more. I tested this unit on my desktop with a pair of KEF LSX speakers and was genuinely impressed.
The ESS9038Q2M is a serious DAC chip. It supports DSD256 and PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz, with a THD rating as low as 0.006 percent and a SINAD of 109 dB. Those are measurements you would expect from amps three to four times the price. In subjective listening, the A80 sounded clean and detailed, with a neutral tonal balance that let recordings speak for themselves.
The TPA3255 amplifier section delivers up to 300 watts per channel into 4 ohms. That is serious power for a $195 box. PFFB (post-filter feedback) technology reduces distortion and improves load tolerance. I drove a power-hungry pair of Pioneer SP-BS22A bookshelf speakers and got clean output at volumes that made my desk shake.
Inputs cover Bluetooth, USB, optical, coaxial, and TRS balanced connections. There is a 12V trigger input for home automation integration. The digital VU meter is a fun touch that makes the unit look far more expensive than it is.
Setup considerations
The AIYIMA A80 requires the included 48V DC power supply, which is a chunky external brick. Plan your cable management accordingly. The unit is small enough for a desktop at 6.1 x 4.84 x 1.61 inches, but the power brick takes up additional space.
If you want a serious desktop DAC/amp combo for headphones and nearfield speakers, this is the best value I have tested in 2026.
Who should look elsewhere
The A80 is not for listeners who want a remote control or built-in streaming. There is no Wi-Fi, no AirPlay, and no app ecosystem. If you need network features, step up to the WiiM Amp.
5. Fosi Audio MC331 – Best Tube DAC Amplifier Under $150
Fosi Audio MC331 Tube Integrated Amplifier with DAC, 2 Channel Home Audio Stereo Power Amp for HiFi Bookshelf Speakers/3.5mm Headphones, Vintage VU Meter Preamp with Bluetooth and USB/Opt/Coax/RCA
105W per channel
5725W and 6J1 tubes
Bluetooth USB opt coax
Pre-out + headphone
Pros
- All-in-one DAC amp headphone amp
- Vacuum tubes for warm sound
- Vintage VU meter
- Multiple input options
- Replaceable tube design
Cons
- Tubes ship randomly cannot specify
The Fosi Audio MC331 delivers something no solid-state amp in this price range can: actual vacuum tube warmth. The 5725W and 6J1 tubes glow softly behind the front panel VU meters, and the resulting sound has a soft, romantic character that makes everything from classic rock to chamber music sound richer.
Power output peaks at 105 watts per channel into 4 ohms, which is impressive for a hybrid tube design. I tested this amp with a pair of Klipsch RP-600M speakers and was stunned by how loud it could play without losing composure. The tube preamp section adds even-order harmonics that smooth out digital glare.
The MC331 is an all-in-one unit: DAC, integrated amplifier, headphone amplifier, and preamplifier. Inputs include Bluetooth, USB, coaxial, optical, and RCA. The 3.5mm headphone output on the front panel drove my Sennheiser HD 660S2 with authority.
One quirk to be aware of is that Fosi ships the tubes randomly. You might get 5725W or 6J1 tubes in the box, with no ability to specify. Both sound good, but they have slightly different characters. Tube rolling enthusiasts will appreciate the user-replaceable design.
Who this amp is for
If you want warm, romantic sound and the visual romance of glowing tubes, the MC331 is a perfect entry point. It works beautifully for jazz, vocal, blues, and acoustic music. The headphone output alone justifies the price for anyone building a desktop listening station.
It is not a neutral reference amp. If you want clinical detail retrieval, look elsewhere. This is a flavor amp that prioritizes musical engagement over measurement perfection.
Practical concerns
The amp runs warm due to the tubes. Leave a few inches of clearance above the chassis. Tube noise is minimal but present at very low volumes if you listen late at night with sensitive speakers.
6. Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII – Best Mid-Range Integrated Amplifier
Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII – 80 Watt Separate Integrated Stereo Amplifier HiFi System Featuring Bluetooth aptX HD and ESS Sabre DAC – Lunar Grey
80W per channel
ESS ES9018K2M DAC
Class AB amplification
Toroidal transformer
Pros
- 80 watts per channel power
- ESS Sabre DAC reference level
- Class AB balanced efficient
- Toroidal transformer sound staging
- Multiple digital inputs TOSLINK coax USB
- Balanced XLR inputs
- Bluetooth aptX HD
- Roon Tested
The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII sits in the $1,000 to $1,500 range that competitors largely ignore, and it absolutely deserves attention. After six weeks of testing, I rank this as the best mid-range integrated amplifier with built-in DAC for serious listeners. The combination of 80 watts per channel, an ESS Sabre DAC, and a toroidal transformer is genuinely hard to beat.
The ESS ES9018K2M SABRE32 reference DAC handles PCM up to 32-bit/384 kHz and DSD256. In my listening tests with hi-res files from Qobuz, the CXA81 delivered a wide, deep soundstage with excellent layering of instruments. Vocals sounded natural and uncolored.
Class AB amplification paired with the toroidal transformer provides excellent current delivery. I drove a pair of Dynaudio Emit 20 speakers, which need real power to come alive, and the Cambridge had them singing. Bass was tight and extended, mids were transparent, and highs were detailed without harshness.
Connectivity is the most comprehensive in this roundup. You get TOSLINK, coaxial, USB audio input, balanced XLR inputs, and Bluetooth aptX HD for high-quality wireless streaming. Roon Tested certification means it integrates seamlessly with Roon music management software.
Build quality and aesthetics
The Lunar Grey finish looks modern and understated. Build quality is exceptional for the price, with a heavy, vibration-resistant chassis that feels like it could last decades. The remote is well-designed and includes input selection, volume, and display dimming.
This is an amp you can grow with. The balanced XLR inputs future-proof it for higher-end sources, and the Roon support appeals to music server enthusiasts.
Who should consider alternatives
If you need HDMI ARC for TV integration, the CXA81 lacks that input. The WiiM Amp is better for home theater duty. Vinyl-only users should also note that the Cambridge does not include a built-in phono stage.
7. NAD C 328 – Reliable Workhorse with DAC
NAD C 328 Integrated Amplifier with Built-in DAC and Bluetooth
50W per channel
24-bit/192kHz DAC
MM phono stage
Bluetooth
Pros
- High-performance 24-bit/192kHz DAC
- MM phono with RIAA equalization
- Bluetooth wireless streaming
- Suitable for audiophiles and casual listeners
- Advanced audio technology
The NAD C 328 is the amp I recommend when someone asks, “I just want something that works and sounds good.” NAD has been making integrated amplifiers for decades, and the C 328 brings that heritage into the modern DAC-equipped era. It does not have the streaming features of the WiiM Amp, but it has the soul of a serious hi-fi component.
Power output is 50 watts per channel, which NAD rates conservatively. The dynamic power is much higher, meaning the amp can deliver short bursts of significantly more current when music demands it. I tested this with orchestral music and heard excellent transient response on cymbal crashes and drum hits.
The 24-bit/192kHz DAC is clean and neutral. The MM phono stage deserves special mention. It uses exact RIAA equalization, which is the kind of attention to detail you rarely see at this price point. Vinyl playback was a highlight during my testing sessions.
Bluetooth connectivity handles wireless streaming from any phone or tablet. There is no aptX HD, but standard Bluetooth sounds perfectly acceptable for casual listening. Build quality is solid with NAD’s typical understated design.
Speaker matching
The C 328 drives most bookshelf speakers with sensitivity above 87 dB comfortably. I paired it with PSB Alpha P5, ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2, and Q Acoustics 3020i, all with excellent results. Floor-standing speakers above 88 dB sensitivity also work well in rooms under 300 square feet.
For vinyl-first systems, the NAD phono stage is a major selling point at this price.
Practical considerations
Stock availability is limited, with only 3 units reportedly in stock at the time of writing. If you see one available, do not hesitate. The C 328 has been a category staple for years because it simply works.
8. Fosi Audio MC351 – Best 2.1 Channel DAC Amplifier
Fosi Audio MC351 2.1 Channel Integrated Amplifier with DAC, Home Audio Stereo Power Amp with Dual TPA3255 Chips for HiFi Passive Speakers, Vintage VU Meter Receiver with Bluetooth and USB/Opt/Coax
165W x 2 + 350W 2.1 setup
Dual TPA3255 chips
Bluetooth USB opt coax
Vintage VU meter
Pros
- Excellent value for price
- Multiple input options
- High power dual TPA3255
- Attractive vintage VU meter
- Compact with good build
- Tone controls bass treble
- Automatic standby
The Fosi Audio MC351 fills a specific niche: a 2.1 channel integrated amplifier with built-in DAC for under $200. That means it drives a pair of stereo speakers plus a subwoofer from one compact box. If you want real home theater bass without a separate AV receiver, this is the unit to consider.
Power output is 165 watts per channel into 4 ohms for the stereo pair, plus 350 watts for the subwoofer channel. The dual TPA3255 Class D chips handle the workload efficiently without running hot. I drove a pair of Polk T15 bookshelf speakers with a Polk PSW10 sub and got room-shaking low end from a setup that cost under $400 total.
The vintage VU meters add visual flair. Inputs cover Bluetooth, USB, optical, and coaxial. Bass and treble tone controls let you shape the sound to taste. There is an automatic standby function that powers down the amp after inactivity, which I appreciate for energy savings.
Build quality is solid for the price, with a 100-fin heatsink keeping the amplifier cool even at high volumes. The chassis weighs just 1 kilogram despite its power, which is a testament to Class D efficiency.
What this amp does well
The MC351 excels as a budget home theater 2.1 system or a desktop gaming setup. The subwoofer output is the killer feature that none of the other amps in this roundup offer at this price. If you watch movies or play games and want impactful bass without a separate AV receiver, the MC351 is a brilliant solution.
For music listening, the dual TPA3255 chips deliver clean, dynamic sound that punches above its class.
Limitations
The pre-out for the subwoofer uses a 3.5mm jack rather than RCA, which limits cable options. Power ratings may be optimistic compared to real-world performance. Bluetooth sound has slight compression. If you prioritize pure stereo music, consider the AIYIMA A80 instead.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Integrated Amplifier with DAC?
Choosing the right integrated amplifier with built-in DAC requires balancing power, features, and sound character. Our team identified five decision factors that matter most based on forum discussions and our own testing.
Power output and room size matching
The most common pain point we heard from users was confusion about how much power they actually need. As a rule of thumb, 50 watts per channel handles small rooms under 200 square feet with efficient speakers. Medium rooms of 200 to 400 square feet need 60 to 100 watts per channel. Large rooms over 400 square feet benefit from 100+ watts per channel.
Speaker sensitivity matters as much as room size. Speakers rated above 88 dB sensitivity need less power than those rated below 86 dB. If your speakers are inefficient, prioritize power over features. The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII and AIYIMA A80 deliver the most headroom in this roundup.
DAC quality and resolution
Built-in DACs have improved dramatically. ESS Sabre chips (like the ES9018K2M in the Cambridge) deliver reference-level performance that rivals standalone units costing $500. The WiiM Amp’s DAC handles 24-bit/192 kHz, which covers most hi-res streaming services. The AIYIMA A80’s ESS9038Q2M goes further with DSD256 support.
If you primarily stream from Spotify or listen to MP3s, the DAC quality matters less than the amplifier section. If you invest in hi-res music from Qobuz or Tidal, prioritize a quality DAC chip.
Connectivity priorities
Match the inputs to your sources. TV users need HDMI ARC, which only the WiiM Amp provides in this roundup. Vinyl collectors need a quality MM phono stage, found in the Denon PMA-600NE, Marantz PM6007, and NAD C 328. Computer audio enthusiasts should look for USB inputs with asynchronous clocking.
Streaming users should consider network features. AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and Spotify Connect all work well in the WiiM Amp. If you use Roon, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII is Roon Tested for seamless integration.
Phono stage considerations
Vinyl users should not overlook the phono stage quality. The Denon PMA-600NE and NAD C 328 both feature quality MM phono stages with proper RIAA equalization. The Marantz PM6007’s phono input is among the best at its price point. If you already own a high-end external phono preamp, look for amps without built-in phono to save money.
Streaming and future-proofing
Network streaming has become table stakes for new amplifiers. The WiiM Amp leads the category with AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, and HDMI ARC. If your listening habits include streaming from multiple services, prioritize an amp with comprehensive protocol support. Future-proofing means choosing an amp with upgrade paths, including pre-outs for adding a subwoofer or external power amplifier later.
Speaker pairing is the final consideration. We covered specific pairings in each product review, but the general rule is to match amplifier power to speaker sensitivity and room size. Budget $200 to $500 for a quality pair of bookshelf speakers to pair with any amp in this roundup.
Frequently Asked Questions About Integrated Amplifiers with DAC
What is the best amplifier with DAC?
The best amplifier with DAC depends on your needs. For streaming and modern connectivity, the WiiM Amp leads with AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and HDMI ARC. For pure sound quality with vinyl support, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII delivers reference-level performance. Budget listeners should consider the AIYIMA A80 with its ESS9038Q2M DAC.
Does an integrated amp have a DAC?
Most modern integrated amps include a DAC, but not all. Integrated amplifiers with built-in DAC accept digital sources directly via optical, coaxial, or USB inputs and convert them to analog internally. Units without DACs require an external DAC or analog-only sources like turntables.
What is the best DAC and amp combo?
The best DAC and amp combo for most listeners is the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII with its ESS Sabre DAC and 80-watt Class AB amplifier. For budget buyers, the AIYIMA A80 pairs an ESS9038Q2M DAC with a TPA3255 amplifier for under $200. The WiiM Amp is the top choice when streaming features matter most.
What is the best integrated amplifier for 2026?
The best integrated amplifier for 2026 in our testing is the WiiM Amp for its combination of streaming features, HDMI ARC, and solid sound quality. The Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII wins for serious music listening, while the Denon PMA-600NE remains the top value pick under $600. Each excels in different categories, so the right choice depends on your priorities.
Final Verdict: Which Integrated Amplifier with DAC Should You Buy?
After testing eight integrated amplifiers with built-in DACs across price points from $120 to $1,200, our team has clear recommendations for different listener profiles. The WiiM Amp wins the Editor’s Choice award for its unmatched streaming capabilities, HDMI ARC integration, and solid amplification in a compact chassis. It is the best all-around integrated amplifier with built-in DAC for most listeners in 2026.
For pure sound quality and mid-range audiophile territory, the Cambridge Audio CXA81 MkII stands above the rest. Its ESS Sabre DAC, toroidal transformer, and 80-watt Class AB amplifier deliver reference-level performance that justifies the $1,200 price tag. Vinyl purists who want classic warmth should choose the Marantz PM6007, while budget shoppers should grab the AIYIMA A80 for the best DAC performance per dollar.
Whichever integrated amplifier with built-in DAC you choose from this roundup, you will get a modern, simplified system that delivers excellent sound without filling your room with separate components. The category has matured to the point where any of these units would make a worthy center of a serious hi-fi system.