Kinki Studio - EX Series M1

The EX Series M1 is Kinki Studio's entry-level integrated amplifier model, built like a "tank" (in a positive way...). Solid aluminum chassis and built with quality components such as ALPS, WIMA and Neutrik. The EX Series M1 is an audiophile's budget dream with a neutral yet very musical sound character. Well worth a test listen! EX Series M1 - In Brief: * Output power : 2x215W (8Ω), 400W (4Ω), when both channels are powered * Damping factor: 2000 * Inputs: RCA x 3, XLR x 1 Supplied with: * Remote control "The EX-M1 Integrated Amplifier is filled with premium parts choices including a microprocessor-controlled JRC MUSES 72320 volume control, true dual mono design, EXICON MOSFETs, 0.2µm gold-plated printed circuit boards, and a pair of 400VA encapsulated transformers. In an interesting twist on form and function, those gold anodized holed heat sinks and matching binding post terminal mounts are also directly attached to each amplifier circuit, one for each channel. [...] The Kinki Studio EX-M1 Integrated Amplifier offers performance that belies its price—in a big way. When taken as a whole,—build quality, power, and sound quality—the EX-M1 represents outstanding value, something I don’t come across every day. If you value an integrated amplifier that offers superb clarity, control, and a rich but not overly ripe sonic palette, the numbers for the Kinki Studio EX-M1 add up to an amplifier worth considering for a serious relationship." Twittering machines (May 2023) "Though the Kinki unmistakably belonged to our generic Swiss school, it included that other Swiss, subtle yet distinctive, Nagra aroma. It derives from their signature obsession with tubes even though in much of their recent gear, they don't use valves to get there. Without impact on the noise floor to maintain superb magnification powers, it injects a whiff of textural extra and transient ease. I needn't spell out what that says about the M1's sell price." 6Moons (July 2018) "Not only Kinki Studio EX-M1 proved to be a fantastic product and nothing less, but it also easily and quickly exceeded this reporter’s expectations by proverbial mile. Early on this machine seemed to be too good to be true, but past several weeks spent with it all I can say now is that I simply couldn’t find any catch. Not even one. Kinki Studio EX-M1 is very nicely made, performs outstandingly well, works with no issues, is visually appealing and refined in general. Put shortly, Liu has every right to be proud of this deck’s Chinese roots, whereas yours truly considers himself as lucky to be now familiar with it. [...] Once all its virtues and very much shocking price are taken into account, not to ask for an invoice would be not a mistake but a crime. That’s why Kinki Studio EX-M1 isn’t going anywhere and that’s the best award yours truly can think of at the moment." HiFi Knights (October 2018)