Top Picks

Audio Separates & Integrated Amps

Elac Element EA101EQ-G Integrated Amp/DAC
(April) Elac created in the EA101EQ-G a compact, affordable, hi-res-friendly audio component with some great features (including auto-EQ and app-enabled subwoofer blending) and what our reviewer Dan Kumin called “surprisingly audiophile sound.” $699, elac.com

Onkyo PR-RZ5100 Surround Processor
(October) A fully loaded, state-of-the-art 11.2-channel surround processor that plays all manner of Dolby Atmos and DTS:X or pretty much any hi-res audio file you can throw at it, while offering a slew of wireless and connected network features, good sound quality, and not-bad value. $2,399, onkyousa.com

ATI AT527NC/AT524NC Power Amplifiers
(April) Morris Kessler and his team at ATI worked with Hypex Ncore Class D modules to create the first full-range amplifiers of that topology they deemed worthy of the ATI name. Our reviewer David Vaughn actually traded in his fine Class A/B reference amps to keep these around. $3,695 and $2,595 for seven- and four-channel versions, respectively. ati-amp.com

Emotiva BasX A-500 Power Amplifier (See "Value")