A21a vs Musical Fidelity A1
The A1's signal-to-noise is 82 dB against the A21a's 83 dB, its input sensitivity 0.3V RMS against 0.2V RMS, and its input impedance 25000Ω against 470000Ω. Both share power @ 8ω (25W).
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The Sugden A21a Class A integrated amplifier is a compact, elegantly designed unit renowned for its pure Class A single-ended solid-state circuit, which delivers exceptional sound quality free from crossover distortion. It produces 23 to 25 watts per channel into 8 ohms, providing a wide and deep soundstage, impressive dynamics, and powerful bass. The amplifier features optional MM/MC phono input, four to five line-level inputs, pre-out (variable), tape out (fixed), and stereo multi-way binding posts. It includes remote volume control and an earth terminal. The frequency response is 10Hz to 20kHz (+/-0.5 to 1dB), with a bandwidth extending from 6Hz to 200kHz. Signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 83dB, ensuring low noise and high fidelity. The A21a is hand-built in England, compact (92 x 430 x 350 mm), and weighs approximately 11 kg. It is celebrated for its midrange clarity, natural and fatigue-free sound, and durability, with many original units still in use after decades. The amplifier is suitable for driving most bookshelf or efficient larger speakers and is considered a timeless, high-end performance amplifier at an accessible price point.
Amplification power output and characteristics
Analog signal output specifications
Input and output connections
Size, weight, and appearance
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Estimated price (community-sourced)
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Components that show up alongside the A21a in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The A1's signal-to-noise is 82 dB against the A21a's 83 dB, its input sensitivity 0.3V RMS against 0.2V RMS, and its input impedance 25000Ω against 470000Ω. Both share power @ 8ω (25W).
The R800i's power @ 8ω is 48W against the A21a's 25W, its signal-to-noise 90 dB against 83 dB, its input sensitivity 0.3V RMS against 0.2V RMS, and its input impedance 100000Ω against 470000Ω.
The LM-508IA's power @ 8ω is 48W against the A21a's 25W, its signal-to-noise 87 dB against 83 dB, its input sensitivity 0.3V RMS against 0.2V RMS, and its input impedance 100Ω against 470000Ω.
The DiaLogue Two's power @ 8ω is 38W against the A21a's 25W, its signal-to-noise 89 dB against 83 dB, its weight 29 kg (64 lbs) against 11 kg (24 lbs), and its width 405 mm against 430 mm.
Marantz PM-11S1
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