Make an $80 Amp Beat $1,000 Amps?! Find out How!

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Sparkos Labs Op Amps sparkoslabs.com
Aiyima A07 amzn.to/3KIH7wO
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Recommended Streamer
WIIM Mini amzn.to/33CL99w
Bluesound Node shop-links.co/cgGiqJ2UFIO
Recommended Speaker List
Around $100 (These prices will fluctuate between $75 - $150)
Sony SSCS5 - Lively amzn.to/3pZNnGk
Pioneer AJ First Gen - Laid Back
Neumi BS5 -Neutral amzn.to/3q0SR3B
Around $200
Emotiva Airmotiv B1+ - Crystal Clear and Punchy emotiva.com?aff=9
Elac Debut b5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/2WPNQxw
Wharfedale Diamond 11.2 (In and Out of Stock) - Laid Back/Bassy/Detailed amzn.to/37W8hPA
JBL Stage A130 - Neutral/Great All Arounder at $179 the best value amzn.to/3t7gOHe
Around $400
Klipsch RP600M - Neutral amzn.to/3pBoXCf (This speaker’s price can fluctuate between $440-630 which is really dumb)
Jamo C93ii Bit - Boosted on Top amzn.to/3beIG6F (Can also be found cheaper at Crutchfield)
Q Acoustics 3030i - Neutral with Punch - amzn.to/2OQkpLo
Around $500
SVS Prime bit.ly/2LozJgF
Wharfedale Diamond 12.2 bit.ly/2ZckoD9
Around $600
Elac Uni-Fi UB5.2 - Neutral amzn.to/3s3srPG
Elac Debut Reference - Buttery but Detailed amzn.to/39bt6WC
Polk Reserve R100 - Neutral
Aperion Novus - Neutral and probably the best desktop speaker one can get $599 bit.ly/2Q1H9rW
Aperion Novus Open Box $449 bit.ly/3us8zGx
Wharfedale Diamonds Lush and Detailed amzn.to/3aBAso0 Come as singles
Recommended Amp List
Under $100
Aiyima A07 - Neutral and Full amzn.to/3g9YLNf
Around $130
SMSL AD18 - DAC/Amp Lively on top but solid tone controls amzn.to/3rVZxkN
SMSL SA300 $140 amzn.to/3u83oLs
Around $250
SMSL DA-9 Balanced Amp amzn.to/34SdbLs
Around $400
Emotiva TA-100 - DAC, Phono Stage, Pre Outs - Balanced and Tasty emotiva.com?aff=9
Vista Audio Spark www.vista-audio.com/products.htm
Recommended DACs
FX D01 amzn.to/3d9GY6U
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Denafrips Ares 2 www.denafrips.com/ares
Subs
Emotiva SE8 emotiva.com?aff=9
Emotiva SE12 emotiva.com?aff=9
SVS SB1000 Pro bit.ly/3scmwsc

Опубликовано:

13 апр 2022

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Комментарии : 721

@wertzinhiemer 2 года назад

It’s awesome seeing you go from spoof sponsors to real ones. I’m sure it’s small to many but it probably means a lot for the channel support-wise and you totally deserve it! People are taking notice of the great content here. Long live sith audio!

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

I appreciate that! lol. I never thought I'd have real sponsors

@miff227 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman hang on..."square space" is REAL ?!!!

@victorgomeza 2 года назад

But I love the Sith Audio stuff, I LMAO with some of the occurrences

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

@@victorgomeza they’ll be more. I promise

@RobertGerman 2 года назад

I think sith audio should become a real thing 😉

@TurtleWaxed 2 года назад

You forgot the most important tip! Always take a few pictures with your camera before you take anything off the board. That way you know how the parts went and what the part numbers were (just in case the parts were not the same).

@ount252 Год назад

A bit late, but for posterity sake I learned that you must use dual circuit OP amps in the AO7 - In other words the SS3601 will not work, you must use the SS3602 (which is what Randy is using in the video). Sparkos did an exchange credit for me and after paying the difference I've got the SS3602s headed my way. Don't make my mistake!

@moss8448 Год назад

be nice to hear what (in your opinion) differences it made with the SS3602s once you got 'em

@ount252 Год назад

@@moss8448 It made the Aiyima A07 a bit clearer on a pair of Jamo S803s (which sounded a bit bloated and muddy before - not the A07's fault, those 803s just aren't great speakers). It definitely livened things up a bit and made for a bigger larger soundstage. Having said that, I'm not sure it's worth the money tbh. For the $160 for the two discrete op amp chips and $80 for the A07 - at $240 you have a lot of other options out there would would probably sound better and give you more clean power. If you are using the op amps on a different product (I know there are plenty of applications), then I'd say maybe they are worth it depending on what you are doing.

@carnut374 Год назад

@@ount252 I think one of these other things to consider though is form factor. You could buy something else in that $250 range but at least for me right now, the A07 is just the right size. Also as another data point, I just did the swap to the SS3602's yesterday and there is definitely a difference in the sound. There was a jump in detail that surprised me because I thought I had it pretty good already (speakers are Polk R100s,) and the soundstage did get bigger particularly front to back from what I could hear. I'm really pleased.

@ount252 Год назад

@@carnut374 That is a very fair point.

@jaromaston1068 Год назад

How are these 80 dollars on the website when he said 4dollars?!

@riccitone 2 года назад

This is super cool. Never knew how straightforward opamp changeout could be. Particularly cool that there are little risers to accommodate the space needs of the upgrade. Now I want to try this!

@genesxse3744 Год назад

Randy, just wanted to say thanks for the advice the ss3602's do provide excellent clarity and separation from the originals that were installed. The over all installation was easy to perform and took about 5-6 mins. Keep up the great work as the cheapaudioman it is truly appreciated.

@jamms2966 2 года назад

@cheapaudioman - I followed your guide & "rolled" the factory op amps for the Sparkos. It wasn't hard to do & my wife & I both wholeheartedly agree the sound is MUCH better! I also swapped out the factory power supply for the DROK 48v 10A so I cant be sure of the results but our SVS Ultra Bookshelfs are for sure louder as well. Thanks for the great content

@bryang9290 2 года назад

I started off not liking you and almost turned off the first video I saw from you, you are now probably my primary channel for audio equipment content. I appreciate your show and hope you continue to grow. Nice job!

@MrBenherrmann 2 года назад

Hey gang....just to let you know, I installed these Sparkos op-amps in my Aiyima A08 also (now do be advised though that the A08 takes 3 of them), and again - a major sound change for the better ensued! The amp now (also) has that class AB sound - that is warmer and more dynamic. Now do be advised that with the A08, it's a bit more tricky. The top does NOT come off. Remove only the front panel (where you'll see the 3 op-amps right towards the front for easy access), unscrew the 4 screws, pull off the volume knob, and unscrew the nut that holds the volume knob control ring in place tightly. Then you pull off the front (it won't come all the way off because wires are attached). Now, reach in carefully and remove the stock 3 op-amps (use tweezers - they work the best), and then you just replace them with the Sparkos ones. At first, I tried taking off the entire top - can't be done, and you have to be very careful because you could damage the unit. Again though - it's another wonderful upgrade, bringing the A08 to amplifier audio levels that usually you'd have to pay 10 times as much for, or more. Enough said! Thanks again to Randy for making us aware of upgrades like this.

@sarahjh785 Год назад

Thank you for sharing your setup. I'm thinking of getting A08. Did you have to buy the leg extension to put in, like the video above for A07? or it doesn't require the extension?

@MrBenherrmann Год назад

@@sarahjh785 At first I thought about getting some extenders - after all, they are only $2 a piece (or something like that). But surprisingly enough, they go in without the extenders, although it was close. So if you want to use the extenders, that would be fine also. I swear, I'm dumping entirely too much money into Sparkos Labs. I put the Sparkos Labs Op Amps into both my Aiyima 07 and 08 amps, and also, I put one in my inexpensive FX-Audio DAC X6 Mk II DAC, where it made an appreciable sonic difference. I've got two more inexpensive Chinese amps coming and between the both of them, they will take an additional 6 op amp change-outs. Damn, I'm goin' broke here.

@sarahjh785 Год назад

@@MrBenherrmann Thank you for sharing your experience, I can't wait to hear mine when it arrives!

@joseph.m.hodges Год назад

I want to stop and take a quick second to say thank you for all this awesome information you are putting out for people like myself who just don't have the experience or knowledge in audio equipment and components in general such as yourself. I am learning so much from you and gleaning everything I can and I really do appreciate your content so I figured the very least I could do is let you know. So thanks man.. I really appreciate what you do. Keep up the good work.. Lock in another new fan and subscriber from southwestern Indiana.. Peace and love to all.. Joseph M Hodges

@Christopher-bl3tn 2 года назад

Love the diy videos! I’m cheep as well and enjoy building and improving My audio stuff as much as I do listening to it. Keep up the good work!

@dawolyan13 2 года назад

Absolutely Randy. What’s old is becoming new again! So many little options on amps that got left behind for convenience sake are popping up again!

@ronaldsavage5211 2 года назад

I recently viewed your video about the $80 Amp and decided to give one a try. I would like to thank you for the info you provided, here is a copy of the review I left about the Neoteck Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo amp. I purchased. Title: The surprise was on me! I purchased this amp for my home office as an experiment, well the surprise was on me. I never expected that this little amp would perform so well. I hooked it up to my Polk S60 towers, this little amp powered them surprisingly well. I then hooked it up to a pair of Energy Connoisseur C3 book-shelf speakers I had stored away and what a surprise I got. The Neoteck Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo amp was where it is supposed to be. I had planned to sell these speakers, I've had a complete change of heart! This little amp breathed new life into them, I had forgotten just how good these speakers could sound. The Neoteck Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo amp punches well above it's weight class. I spent 1 1/2 days listening to all types of music on this combination and I'm still amazed with the sound quality. I highly recommend the Neoteck Bluetooth 5.0 Stereo amp for a small room or office, you will not be disappointed!

@dipanjanbiswas6580 Год назад

You're an inspiration you know that 👍I was fretting over what tools to use to change op-amps, scared of damaging something - and then I see you using fingers and knives - and thought what the heck - went ahead and did the same - and am all set 😃 thanks for this Randy

@ahuesphoto 2 года назад

I still have my first Hi-Fi system that consist of a pair of Pioneer 3-Way speakers, that I bought used when I was in college, one of the original Lepai LP-2020A+ *Tripath* Class-D amp with an upgraded power supply, and a Pure Audio A2 Bluetooth receiver. The upgraded power supply reduced the distortion dramatically, even at lower volumes. I moved it to my office and I enjoy it every day, mostly for listening to music.

@ryanjofre Год назад

I upgraded my 1984 Denon DCD 1500 II CD player with Texas Instruments op amps. The sound quality improvement was even greater than the new DAC & new capacitors. I now have a magnificent Audiofool quality CD player that started out as a $5.00 thrift store score.

@perryharrison797 2 года назад

Game changing ! Thankyou so much this is a brilliant little chip. Going to use one of those style amps for a large soundbox style portable speaker. Your video has given the build a real edge

@Scrufboy 2 года назад

Did it! Installed yesterday... Love it! Excellent Upgrade... Thanks Randy!

@Ezees23 2 года назад

I have the Sparkos ss-3602's inside my HP amp (Gustard H20) and they're very good sounding pieces. I am also trying out the Burson v6 Vivids in comparison and they're great too (but in my amp the Sparkos are slightly better - in another component it may be the exact opposite). This is a relatively cheap mod to upgrade SQ on any component that has compatible opamps and DIP8 sockets - much cheaper than buying a different component and most discrete opamps stomp IC opamps, IMO. Be careful to make sure which types of opamps are inside of your component before you replace them - ie: single or duals, opamp inter-compatibility, and orientation. Happy listening...

@williamweber4844 Год назад

Thank you for your educational videos, super helpful reviews, and introduction to audio space. I actually bought the amp and the op amps. Hooked it up to some LS50’s I bought for half off. The system sounds fantastic. This is coming from a guy who loves McIntosh and vintage tube Marantz. Great fun!

@ernesttricarico6402 2 года назад

Very cool! It's great at letting us know about these fantastic upgrades

@triplelindys 2 года назад

Just wanted to say thanks, Randy. Based on your recommendations, I've picked up a new amp (Aiyima D05), new speakers (Sony SSCS5's) and now, I have a Fluance RT 83 and a U-Turn Pluto 2 Phono Preamp on the way. Sounds real good for my small home office to play some vinyl and the occasional Bluetooth Spotify stream from my phone.

@Bobcatspiritdude 2 года назад

Hi total noob here - what are some reasons why people use a Preamp?? Thanx

@kenlane3001 2 года назад

Hey Randy.........Thanks a ton for this.....Just got mine in today and have yet to fool with the op amps.(oh..it will happen) But over all, I am super impressed with just the stock sound! Best 100 bucks I have ever invested in this wacky love.

@ilikedeathmetal7458 2 года назад

You can push the pins on your old op amps into foam packing to keep them from bending further. Then put in bag.

@SmallChurch Год назад

Hi from Japan, Randy - Long-time audiophile, first-time viewer. Love your reviews and down-to-earth, easily understable little nuggets of advice, etc. Now a subscriber to your great channel - guaranteed BS-free, friendly, very personable character, too. Cheers! and all the very best from the Far East (Scotsman, but long-time resident...).

@kennethoransky4881 2 года назад

Best video I've seen on this topic. I think you're the first to explain it in this detail. Excellent!!

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

Glad you enjoyed it! I feel unqualified. but I appreciate the compliment

@kennethoransky4881 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman You did it successfully? You're qualified.

@jimmclain2089 2 года назад

Good advice! Bought the amp and those op amps and spacers. Easy install and great sound. Thanks!

@rosschapman966 2 года назад

Awesome video! I was leaning toward getting an Emotiva Basx A2 but after watching this video you have me rethinking that.

@jabezhane 2 года назад

I remember upgrading the $0.50 op-amp in my old Creative labs 2:1 sound system with a OPA2227 many years ago. Certainly made a difference. Not really had the ability to do it again since.

@rey892 2 года назад

Just yesterday I swapped out the OPA2134s in my AkitikA PR-102 preamplifier with Sparkos SS3602s. Everything sounds even better now...more clarity, more detail, punchier bass, better soundstage, etc, etc. What was already a fantastic preamp is now "next level." I also replaced the stock opamp in my Topping D50s with a Burson V5i, and that was a game changer!

@newtongsm Год назад

I am using it with vivid v6 also professional 15amp 48 volts.power supply shocking results thanks 👨 🧍‍♀️

@jsclayton 2 года назад

Success! Sparkos op-amps installed and no magic smoke! Going to be a great afternoon for some listening while working!

@foreverendeavors6210 2 года назад

Impeccable trimming on this video, been looking at an Ayima tube pre-amp, and they recommended a chip upgrade, was just looking into it, awsome..

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

thanks

@2high2die 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman i was noticing your trim too. not bad for an old guy

@robertleon1195 2 года назад

Just emailed Sparkos, told them I came from here, and asked them about whether my NAD D3020 can be upgraded/modded. Thanks much for the info and instructions! Hope you get to 100k soon!

@willemvdg9557 2 года назад

Interesting, pls post the result, I have the D3045.

@brianchristen5849 2 года назад

Thank you for the suggestion, I ordered parts today as I have the Aiyima AO7 and the tube-A3 pro pre amp, also after your suggestion. I like the small set-up. I also have a Marantz 2270, and an Adcom GFA 5802 for my larger rooms. Thanks for your videos!!

@timc_2433 2 года назад

You notice a difference?

@brianchristen5849 2 года назад

@@timc_2433 I have this setup in a 10x10 room using Klipsch RP-160m bookshelf and a Polk PW108 powered sub. It’s sounds amazing, I didn’t have a final resting place for system until I upgraded the op-amps, so I can’t give you a yes or no on noticeable difference. I did listen to setup with factory op-amps, but in different listening room.

@brianchristen5849 2 года назад

I do have original op-amps so now I can change back and listen again now that it’s in its final listening room and position.

@Viks021 2 года назад

Good tip, but an actual side-by-side sound comparison and spectrum analysis graph would be nice.

@billsmith5166 2 года назад

It won't show anything that you can hear. You should install these if they make you feel better.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

I don’t do measurements but it would be interesting to see if there was a difference

@RaveyDavey 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman You could easily do blinded A/B testing to see if can actually hear what you think you can hear. At least then you'd know if the amp really was subjectively improved at all. Otherwise it's kind of meaningless. Who has such good audio memory that they can listen to an amp, spend an hour or so dismantling it etc and then confidently state that it now sounds better? I sure as hell can't unless we're talking night and day differences. At best op amp rolling is going to be subtle and a single sighted comparison, hours apart is not remotely reliable.

@lukaszcieslak839 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman You definitely should do measurements. Without real values of frequency response, noise level, THD, IMD, stereo crosstalk and others, before and after change, only upgrade which you showed is price upgrade. Of course, comparison of those values to values of few random $1000 amplifiers to proof title of video would be also nice...

@fdski Год назад

Got me some Sparkos op amps en route. 👍💥🔈

@merdith6 Год назад

I ordered the 36w 10amp power supply and it is perfect. Thank you for all your help.

@indianapolisindiana7856 Год назад

Do you have a link to the power supply you bought?

@KarmaElectronics. 2 года назад

also going to try it with a 48v lithium power humpty. isolated it from the wall all together. thanks for sharing!

@johndavidlawson Год назад

Thanks for this brilliant and fun video with the life-saving advice about "aligning the notches" and the plug for good music at the end. Upgrade achieved. Mug purchased.

@francescotenti193 2 года назад

Another great video and something you will not find anywhere else in reviewing channels: how to soup up an inexpensive class D amp without going broke. Thanks again, Mr. randy!

@stevespanaway2344 2 года назад

I ordered the Op Amps. Thanks for the hookup!

@victorcatalina8510 2 года назад

I love this little amp and was considering buying another and using them as mono blocks. I currently use a vintage harken Karen pa2000 amp.

@DynastyVinyl Год назад

I have learned a tonne from this vlog. Not the least of which is to embrace my budget audio limits,and have fun playing within it. Op amp rolling you say? Me like!

@MichaelBruceTaos 2 года назад

Hey @cheapaudioman I made a video after yours. I love Sparkos and have been trying to hype them for more than a year! Thanks for this one.

@MarkoVukovic0 Год назад

A great upgrade, but Sparkos discretes are a bit pricey at $80 a pop. I'm going with a pair from Orange Amps, ~$58 apiece. Already upgraded my DIYRE HC-1 headphone amp with these, that has the identical IC op-amps and the difference is amazing. They also come with sockets included.

@scottlowell493 11 месяцев назад

Does that means the orange are as good or better? If so, how do you know?

@MarkoVukovic0 11 месяцев назад

@@scottlowell493 as good or better than Sparkos? I don't know, as I have never tried the Sparkos. I would imagine that they will be very similar. I can tell you that they are a big improvement over the standard IC opamps.

@impuls60 2 года назад

Respect for such a well used knife! Knives are great!

@ralphe.thompson5010 2 года назад

i bit the bullet and bought the risers and chips for my ayima a07. for me, even with equalization which did improve the sound, with some rockish-songs my stock a07(paired with a AYIMA T8 PREAMP) running to DUAL polk subs paired to tsi-100s just had a 'missing middle' and slightly hissy highs and maybe bass that was disconnected in an odd way. i tweaked and tweaked and got it sounding good but was still a little unsatisfied. the sparkos do make a very noticeable difference and to me improvements. separation is definitely increased...just more space and depth to all forms of music. and that 'missing 'middle' that i was experiencing has been fixed. much more balanced sound and seamless sound now. i wasnt sure about these but i am much happier about turning the system on now and listening to music.

@BigChungusthe3rd Год назад

I've got the missing mids problem with my a07 and monitor audio bronze 2s. Guess I'll try the sparkos

@RJ_Chicago 2 года назад

Randy! OMG this blew my mind! This could be the next thing after tube rolling and aftermarket audiophile fuse swapping. What we need now is a directory of all audio equipment that has opamps that are easily accesable and that would benefit from opamp swapping. Like DACs, streamers, DDCs, everything. Wow.

@editorjuno 2 года назад

@Douglas Blake -- As usual, one of voices of reason.

@mcpoulet13 2 года назад

I totally agree

@bobhopfner1226 Год назад

i did the same thing with my Fosi Audio Tube P2, sounds great! rolled tubes in it and my Nobsound NS-10T and they sound great with my DT990. I want to upgrade my sound card and drop in some Sparkos in that, maybe the larger pro-audio op amps. lots of cheap options out there these days and Sparkos makes them sound even better.

@MrIagainsti120 2 года назад

I got the OPA1656 (Burr Brown) op amp for my AO7. I looked into the Sparkos op amps while researching and found the OPA1656 to be almost identical in claimed specs. only the OPA1656 is $15 and Sparkos are $80. And they sound way better than the ones that come with the A07.

@moniack 2 года назад

I've heard that one is popular. I was expecting him to try the 1656.

@naastradamus 2 года назад

John, how would you describe the improvement you heard with the OPA1656 Burr Brown op amp?

@moniack 2 года назад

@@naastradamus I got an A07 this week, and have some OPA 1656 coming next week. So far the A07 seems very nice, but it's hard to do a direct A/B without an amp switcher. I'm also using a mid to lower level 12 year old Denon AVR as a baseline, so I don't have anything really nice to compare too. The soundstage seems good as it is now. Whereever I may roam at 14s comes almost behind me.

@vanoverbay774 2 года назад

I’ve got OPA1656 chips in an A07 and a Tube A3 preamp. They’re a great deal for $15-20 and imo the best bang for the buck.

@AlbertoFC 2 года назад

@@vanoverbay774 Looking forward to your feedback as long as you have the exact same setup than me... and I wonder how big the difference would be

@PetrSedlacek Год назад

"It sounds like a more expensive amplifier." - because it now is :)) The two little op-amp circuits more than _triple_ the cost of the A07. For some, that might totally be worth it. For me? I'm not so sure. I'd probably have to get better speakers first to even hear the difference... Cool little project either way :)

@toddsell5460 Год назад

Randy .5mm pencil works awesome for straightening those pins on chips

@d.l.2401 2 года назад

Thanks Randy, Just ordered 2 Dual OP AMPS for the FX AUDIO TUBE-03 Vacuum Tube Preamp. Replacing the Texas Instrument NE5532P OP AMPS.

@mikeortiz2139 2 года назад

Very cool. When I finally get an A07 and move away from active speakers I'll plan on making this change with them. I am curious on the difference the upgraded power supply makes to the A07. Maybe compared to the A08 or whatever else is CAM approved.

@sammybelskus1534 2 года назад

Hey Randy! Do you think you could do a “Three different pairs of speakers at three drastically different price points” type of video? Like the pinnacle of a $250, $800, $2000, and $12000 pair and compare them? I know that’s four lol. I just don’t really know if there’s a night and day difference in price type of thing and I’d like to see. Thanks!

@grhaggerty 2 года назад

I own this amp and I put 2 Burson V6 in it and it did sound a lot better, (Tho the outside case didn't fit back on). I recently bought an $300 Emotiva class AB amp ( one that you reviewed) and the emotiva sounded better. I also bought a FX 06 tube preamp and I put a Burson iv5 and it sounds awesome. I did this from watching your past videos so keep the tips coming Randy.

@timc_2433 2 года назад

which emotive amp?

@grhaggerty 2 года назад

@@timc_2433 The emotiva Basx A2 Mini, well worth it.

@timc_2433 2 года назад

@@grhaggerty cheers. How are you enjoying it compared to other items you tried?

@Ezees23 2 года назад

Oh please, oh please, oh please...tell me where the opamps are located inside the A2M? I have the A-100 (the earlier model) and can't find the opamp locations anywhere. I've got several sets of IC and discrete opamps to try in it and it's frustrating not being able to try them our inside the A-100.

@truckyouable 2 года назад

Got the Sparkos op amps in, wow! Driving restored HPM 60's, Me like! Thanks Randy.

@SolarMillUSA Год назад

@1:40 the term "rolling" comes from "roll your own" as in cigarettes. You could buy the Lucky Strikes or the Marlboro's, or your could roll your own and make your blend exactly how you like it. "Rolling" something is to choose your own components.

@prs26 Год назад

Im glad i found this channel,,, beginning my Audiophile journey

@ujean56 2 года назад

You remain! THE Chief of cheap. Awesome video. Keep up the qualdee videos Chief.

@78schoolboy 2 года назад

Great idea for a channel man love it

@makarov138 2 года назад

What that amp needs is one of those tube preamps with the tone controls ahead of it and it will shine britely. I use that amp driving a pair of twelves and tweeters. I got a FX-AUDIO TUBE-03 with rolled tubes ahead of it. We sounding good at my house!

@kenzilla8096 Год назад

Hi. I also have the FX Audio tube -03. It boosts the signal, make the sound clearer and improves base. So does this do what the Op amps do or is this different?

@izumispa2993 2 года назад

Randy is the BEST! So glad to be able to support his fabulous channel. It just keeps getting better and better!

@dutenn 2 года назад

Yes! I was wondering about the a300

@yournightmare9999 2 года назад

Great hidden tips. This is hidden gem 👌

@illsubmarine 2 года назад

Would love to see more upgrade videos of this type little to no quality videos on RU-vid about modifying your system keep it up for sure

@EngrRomero 2 года назад

Great idea of Op Amp rolling. The idea of tube rolling is to introduce more or less distortion to the audio signal. Let do it with op amp as tubes are getting more expensive.

@RaveyDavey 2 года назад

No the idea of tube rolling isn't to reduce distortion. It's to randomly swap in other tubes (normally more expensive "vintage" ones) and see if you prefer the sound afterwards. Tube amps usually have high distortion full stop. It's probably the main reason some people like them. Likewise, without testing, you've no idea if swapping a chip in will reduce distortion or increase, or mess up the rest of the circuit.

@makarov138 2 года назад

I recently bought a DAC amp about the size of a box of kitchen matches that sounds BIG as my 100W per channel Pioneer amp! Got a little tube preamp ahead of it and SHAZAM that things sound good!!

@reconbbs360 2 года назад

Just purchased a used A07 for cheap and I bought the 48v Power supply from Aiyama and the OP amps from sparkos labs. My plan is to use it as a power amp with my Integra DMT 40.7 network stereo receiver. Only reason I'm doing this is because the receiver has zero crossover/bass management and I was able to snag a M&K Miller & Kreisel LFE-3 Electronic Crossover Bass Management Box for dirt cheap. 80hz high and low pass filters. Not the most elegant solution but it should work great.

@gordondyer6310 Год назад

I love your chip extractor tool!

@KillerKlipsch Год назад

Thanks Bro, just the tip I needed

@cheapaudioman Год назад

thank you!

@jeffreymakuch2493 2 года назад

Would I believe it? Sure, with measurements to back it up. Sighted, non-level matched A/B tests are so prone to expectation bias, if the difference is as big as you say it will show up in measurements - the Aiyima A07 stock is a decent bang-for-buck TI3255 amplifier, but has clear shortcomings when you don't factor in price as much.

@brendanhoffmann8402 5 месяцев назад

Nice, just ordered the sparkos op amps and risers. Hope its worth it! Just put the Sparkos in my Aiyima. They sound much more refined and rich, less muddy too.

@stevespanaway2344 2 года назад

Another great video, thanks again. For those of us on a budget, which would you recommend replacing first to get the most bang for your buck: the power supply or the Op Amps?

@RickMahoney2013 2 года назад

Thank you very much for this information.

@scottkeller87 2 года назад

Man I would love to see you do some car(mobile) audio testing/reviews! With your smooth style(thank God you rock to Metallica, AC/DC, etc.) and very unbiased opinion, I bet you would open up a different part to your sound world. Just a thought 🤔 anyways keep making great content, your videos always contain tons of information even for a seasoned professional like myself. I run a car audio business out of my home but power my living room with Denon, Marantz, Sonus Faber, Cambridge Soundworks, Toshiba and Dayton Audio equipment daily when I'm not in my garage, that's all powered by 12volt amps, speakers, subs, and EQ's.

@JoshFisher567 2 года назад

Great video, especially for people who realize the benefit of something like this. Having built or repaired computers, laptops, and smart phones, this looks no harder than swapping out memory in a computer. You just have to make sure you plug it in the right way as computer memory is slotted to not allow you to insert it the wrong way. Laptops aren't fun to work on and smartphones just plain suc I'm to try and repair. Would this work with the Aiyima A300? If so, would it be the same chip based off amp that the A07 uses or would it be a different chip? I can probably figure it out in a few Google searches but obviously you would know, or figure out way quicker than I could. Also, thanks for all your tips in various other videos. I was looking for some bookshelf speakers. While I wasn't planning to spend what I did on the Elac Uni 2 B52's, I'm glad I did and I've only had them for 9 or 10 days so still breaking them in. They didn't amaze me out of the box but they have been getting better every day. Vocals are crisp and clear. It's just balanced as you stated over and over in various videos. I'm not sure why people think speaker break in isn't real. Think about it, popular materials for speaker cones are paper, metal, plastic, and aramid fiber. Plastic is obviously going to stretch out a bit over time. Paper has more variables. Aluminum is woven very tightly so it will stretch a bit over time. I don't believe I've had a speaker that uses aramid fiber. Personally, I believe speaker manufacturers make the woven cone material slightly tighter than it should be for this very reason. I also have the Sony HT-A7000 and initially I was going to return it. Out of the box. I wasn't amazed. Then Sony announced new rears which are 2 smaller A9'S that run on battery for 10 hours (per Sony) and they are bringing the same software used in the A9's. Initially I didn't get a great Atmos effect but I swear, one day it's like it turned into a completely different sounding speaker. All the sudden I was hearing sounds that were coming 4ft behind my head. A wall is 1 door away so that was new. Anyway, it wasn't great for music, which is why I got the Elac's, Aiyima A300 and the iFi signature one, mainly because it had the right inputs/outputs I needed for my setup. Now I can hook the optical out from my TV to the iFi and with some tinkering around with time delays, get everything to synch up perfectly so it's the best of both worlds for movies. Music is just Elac's. I do wish the wireless Sony subwoofer did have an input but I will just get sub down the line.

@brucermarino Год назад

Thanks for another great presentation! Any thoughts on starting with the power upgrade first? This could not only give more power but might also improve the sound.

@PlatinumDragonProductions999 2 года назад

I love upgrade hacks like this!

@charlesforwood8546 Год назад

I just noticed that Aiyima offers the A07 with a little more expensive Op-amp chip if you order it directly from them. The A07 normally comes with a NE5532 Op-amp and they offer a version with the LM4562. Anyone have an opinion or comment about how the LM4562 Op-amp chip compares to the NE5532? Appreciate any information. Thanks in advance. C

@ngcolby Год назад

I have done this swap just the other day. Not a huge improvement, but its definitely noticeable, and for $10, why not?

@joe1569 Год назад

The 5532 dual op amp is already extremely good, having been optimized for audio performance. There will be no discernible difference in performance by replacing them. The "difference" will be psychological, not acoustical or electrical. There could be a performance improvement by adding a large bank of capacitance at the power supply output. This *might* help the supply from current limiting during loud low frequency passages. This would need to be looked at and measured.

@johanneswerner1140 2 года назад

Nice video, like the idea of doing this! Pleases my inner electronics child. To be honest, they could just have encased everything in the same dip package and it would sound just the same, and would no longer look discreet. Op amps matter in many cases, had my fair share of that during my thesis. Different frequencies though (few 100kHz)...

@awarism7020 2 года назад

This channel rocks!

@truckyouable 2 года назад

Randy! just ordered them, there is a 15% off coupon!!! and the big power supply arrives today. you are my fav audio guy.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

thanks, man!

@cameronrector178 2 года назад

What did you order exactly?

@truckyouable 2 года назад

@@cameronrector178 two SS3602 op amps chips and two dip socket risers

@knobbshots 2 года назад

Sweet! Nice diversity in your coverage

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

More to come!

@willmac5642 2 года назад

Intrigued by a new product from Orchid Audio which converts Single ended to balanced. Cd be useful for something like a Saga + or other SE pre amp

@carlosmejia8111 2 года назад

Randy, first of all I want to thank you for all your advise. Now I am much more informed about audio! I know my question is not related with this post topic, so sorry. In my room I have an old Denon AVR-3805 receiver paired with 2 Infinity TSS 1100 bookshelves as rear speakers, 2 Definitive Promonitor 1000 as front speakers, one Definitive Procenter 2000 as center channel and a TSS 1100 Infinity subwoofer. I am impressed with all the good comments that the Sony SS-SC5 speakers get. I am wondering if my setup will benefit if I replace some of my speakers with the Sony speakers. I am thinking to replace the Infinity with the Definitive and then the Definitive with the Sony. What do you think? Thank you again for all your effort and for your answer in anticipation. Best regards.

@Bob.martens 2 года назад

I got Burr Brown OPA2134 in my Aiyima A04. That tightens thins up. I'd invest in an upgraded heatsink before driving it with anything over 32 Volts...

@Ezees23 2 года назад

That's a good "classic" opamp that trounces the normal but old ne5532's. The 2134's are quite a bit more refined vs the 5532's used in most budget gears.

@RAW_Reality 2 года назад

OPA1656 vs OPA2134? 🤔

@Ezees23 2 года назад

@@RAW_Reality I wonder that too, though I don't know much about the 1656...

@odwatchguy 2 года назад

Thank you, Randy. I really enjoyed this upgrade review. I would never take on a Akitika or Amp Camp Amp, but this looks like something I could do successfully.

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

you got this, Tony

@TheSynrgy1987 2 года назад

There's a lot of choices in op amps to pick from, I've used some Burson V5i-D in mine a while ago (had used them before in something else). There are cheaper options too so you can get a bunch of different ones and try them out(you may prefer the cheaper ones to the more expensive ones).

@JoshFisher567 2 года назад

@@cheapaudioman what would be a good op amp for the A300? Seems like the hardware is pretty close minus the dedicated full sub out and the XLR inputs. That and 2 modes (direct and tone). It also has an internal PSU vs external on the A07. I've enjoyed swapping out parts on many electronic devices. Especially if there is a significant upgrade in quality without spending 3x as much

@DougMen1 2 года назад

Full size amps from the major manufacturers all have op-amps too, in their preamps, as do DACs and CD players, any source with an analog output stage, unless it's a full tube component, like a tube preamp, power amp, or integrated amp.

@plektosgaming 2 года назад

They stopped putting large transistors in amplifiers back in the mid 80s. This can be a cheap upgrade.

@DougMen1 2 года назад

@@plektosgaming The power amp sections of SS amps still have large power transistors. Op-amps are small signal voltage gain devices. Power transistors are current gain devices, which is what you need to drive speakers. Older amps used small signal transistors in their preamps. Now they use op-amps instead.

@beezlebub3955 2 года назад

Hehe I’ve delved into op amp rolling, and tubes, and pads, it’s all very subtle, BUT, it verks 🤷🏼‍♂️ tubing has been my favorite

@gonzilla25rg 2 года назад

I’m going to do this with my t9 when it comes in!

@NosEL34 2 года назад

Awesome video. Very cool stuff 😎

@cheapaudioman 2 года назад

thanks

@MobWithGuns 2 года назад

instead of the knife to pull the chip out, i believe the proper tool name is IC chip tool, or IC socket tool. it wraps on the edges of the chip to allow to pull out properly

@cdelapaz5 2 года назад

Good video man.

@valueofnothing2487 2 года назад

An operational amplifier contains 20 transistors. A transistor can replace a single tube. The operational amplifier is a complete amplifier circuit consisting of many transistors and the ability to control many features of an amplifier.

@AndyBHome 2 года назад

I'm glad Squarespace sponsored today's episode, but I was prepared to see a plug for the Sith Audio audiophile sonic screwdrivers. It's cool though. I'm sure it's coming.

@atlasboogie 2 года назад

I watched this video and bought the supplies, followed your instructions, and just completed the install which took 5 mins. And guess what? It WORKS! The highs got a small bump. The overall clarity got about a 35% increase. What really impressed was the stereo imaging and instrument separation. It was already good with the stock op amps but with the Sparkos.....it took it to the next level. It's surprisingly clear now even with my vintage Dynaco bookshelf speakers. Thank you Cheap Audio Man! This was fun and inexpensive and I appreciate the sound quality even more now!

@MiguelAngelVelazquez 2 года назад

Yes, any upgrade from the fake NE5532 will sound better. Mine were fake. How do I know? Because I bought original ones from Texas Instruments and even those sounded better. You could get similar results for less than $30 dollars with 2 SOIC to DIP adapters, two OPA1656, and bypass each Opamp voltage pins(4 negative, and 8 positive) with 1 Elna Silmic II 10uF 35v rated, 1 TDK or Murata C0G Ceramic capacitor 10uF and other TDK or Murata C0G 0.1uF, both 50v rated.

@edholmwood 2 года назад

Great video. I love these kinds of inexpensive upgrades. I noticed you are closing in on 100K subscribers. Great job.

@angelheart1129 2 года назад

Great advice 🙏🎶

@reep1324 2 года назад

I can recommend "Oracle II 02" from Aliexpress. No noise whatsoever, against ordinary NE5532. Saved my old headphone lamp amp.

@binuat80 Год назад

Hi, I too did the same tweak on my portable XDuoo XD5 Bals DAC cum Headphone amp. I replaced the stock IC OP Amps with Burson Audio - Supreme Sound V5i Dual X2 Hybrid OP Amps. Just as you mentioned, Immediate improvement. I Intend to do the similar Tweak in my Main Music system. I am using the Soncoz LA QXD1 which has Stock (Two OPA1612A dual IC OP Amps from Texas Instruments). I plan to Swap them for (I/V - AD8620 & LPF - PPA1642) these Options are also IC OP Amps but it is tried and tested and there is a big improvement in the audio. Unfortunately I am unable to replace with Discreet cause there is no sufficient headroom in my DAC's casing. I am using the Feliks Audio Echo Tube Headphone Amp as my Pre amp and the Atoll IN200 SE in By Pass mode as my Power Amp. In future, I intend to replace the Jamicon (Electrolytic Capacitors) in the audio signal path of the Atoll Amp with Rellcap (Film and Foil Capacitors) of the same value or greater.