SMSL PA40 Review The “I Just Need an Amp” Amplifier

The SMSL PA40 might be the ultimate “I just need an amp” amplifier. **Discount code at the bottom** For around $160, this compact Class D amplifier offers plenty of power, a tiny footprint, volume control, adjustable gain, and built-in EQ that can dramatically change its sound. But after spending time with the PA40, I realized that critically evaluating this amplifier in Direct mode might be missing the point. The PA40 is simple, affordable, flexible—and most importantly, fun. In this review, I test the SMSL PA40 with my original KEF LS50s and ELAC Debut DB63s, compare it with the Fosi Audio V3 Monos and SMSL AO10, and experiment with the Schiit Freya+ tube preamplifier to see just how far this little amplifier can scale. The Fosi V3 Monos still give me more power, grip, dynamics and holography, but the PA40 gets surprisingly close considering its price. And with the right speaker pairing—and a little help from its EQ—the PA40 can make for a seriously enjoyable system. I also discuss an important concern with build quality and reliability after my SMSL AO10 failed and the PA40 experienced a strange power issue during my testing. Is the SMSL PA40 the last amplifier you'll ever need? Probably not. But if you're building your first HiFi system, putting together a bedroom or desktop setup, powering an old pair of bookshelf speakers, or just want an inexpensive amplifier to experiment with, the PA40 makes a compelling argument for keeping things simple. DISCOUNT CODE SMSL PA40 Power Amplifier: https://www.aoshida-audio.com/product... Coupon Code: NLS-PA40 Discount: 5% TIMESTAMPS 0:00 INTRO 2:19 "I JUST NEED AN AMP" 06:02 LISTENING IMPRESSION 08:20 V3 MONOS COMPARE 11:31 THE ELAC PAIRING 14:38 THE CATCH 17:38 THE CONCLUSION *Equipment featured in this review:* SMSL PA40 SMSL AO10 Fosi Audio V3 Monos KEF LS50 ELAC Debut DB63 Schiit Freya+ Topping D50 III Bluesound Node #SMSL #SMSLPA40 #HiFi #ClassD #Audiophile