Arylic's LA150 streaming amplifier is a powerhouse of a device, offering a significant leap in performance and features compared to its predecessor, the LA50. While the LA50 was already a capable streaming amplifier, the LA150 takes things to the next level with a host of upgrades that will delight audiophiles and tech enthusiasts alike. In this article, I'll delve into the key features of the LA150, explore its implications, and discuss why it's a game-changer for audio enthusiasts.
A Step Up in Power and Performance
One of the most notable upgrades in the LA150 is its increased amplifier power. The LA50 delivered 50W per channel, but the LA150 doubles this to 110W RMS per channel. This is a significant improvement, especially for those looking to drive larger floorstanding speakers or more demanding bookshelf speakers. The LA150's amplifier is based on Texas Instruments' TPA3255 Class D amplifier chip, which has earned a strong reputation for delivering clean, efficient power in compact hi-fi amplifiers. While the published specifications list 110W for both 4Ω and 8Ω speakers, this is an unusual figure, and we'll need to wait for Arylic's official documentation to confirm the exact measurements.
Enhanced Connectivity and Versatility
The LA150 also brings a substantial expansion in connectivity options. While the LA50 offered HDMI ARC, USB audio, analogue RCA input, optical input, and a subwoofer output, the LA150 adds a host of new features. These include a built-in MM/MC phono stage for turntables, coaxial digital input, RCA pre-out, optical digital output, USB Host for local music playback, and HDMI ARC with CEC. The addition of a dedicated USB-B DAC input further enhances the LA150's versatility, allowing users to connect a wide range of audio devices.
Bluetooth 5.4 and Streaming Features
Bluetooth also receives a substantial upgrade in the LA150. The LA50 used Bluetooth 5.0 with support for SBC and AAC when receiving audio. The LA150 moves to Bluetooth 5.4, adding support for higher-quality codecs such as aptX, aptX HD, LDAC, and LC3. This provides greater flexibility for wireless headphones or speakers, and the LA150 can also transmit audio over Bluetooth using SBC, aptX, and aptX HD. Like the LA50, the LA150 continues to support Arylic's latest streaming platform, including AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Roon Ready.
Networking and Design Considerations
The LA150 also includes dual-band 2.4GHz / 5GHz Wi-Fi (802.11ac), 10/100 Ethernet, and Bluetooth 5.4 for wireless connectivity. Its larger physical size, measuring 215 × 65 × 245mm, accommodates the more powerful amplifier section and expanded rear-panel connectivity. However, there are still some questions surrounding the LA150's specifications, such as the use of an AK7735 as the DAC, which is actually an AKM digital signal processor rather than a standalone DAC. Further clarification is needed from Arylic on this point.
Implications and Future Developments
The LA150 represents a substantial step up from the LA50, offering more than twice the amplifier output, a built-in MM/MC phono stage, significantly expanded inputs and outputs, upgraded Bluetooth capabilities, and support for the same comprehensive range of streaming services. While the LA150 doesn't support Matter, Apple users can still benefit from AirPlay 2 integration, allowing them to add the amplifier to the Home app and group it with HomePods and other AirPlay 2 speakers. In my opinion, the LA150 is a compelling alternative for anyone looking to combine traditional hi-fi with modern wireless streaming.
Conclusion: A Game-Changer for Audio Enthusiasts
In conclusion, the Arylic LA150 streaming amplifier is a powerhouse of a device that offers a significant leap in performance and features compared to its predecessor. With its increased amplifier power, enhanced connectivity, and upgraded Bluetooth capabilities, the LA150 is a game-changer for audio enthusiasts. While there are still some questions surrounding its specifications, the LA150 is a compelling alternative for anyone looking to combine traditional hi-fi with modern wireless streaming. Personally, I think the LA150 is a must-have for audiophiles and tech enthusiasts who want the best of both worlds.
