Discover the Musical Fidelity A5 at Len Wallis Audio in Lane Cove.
Powerful dual-mono integrated amplifier delivering 250 W per channel with exceptional musicality, control, and refinement for demanding loudspeakers.
Key Features
Dual-Mono Construction: Separate power supplies per channel for superior separation, dynamics, and imaging.
High Power Output: 250 W into 8 Ω (400 W into 4 Ω) provides effortless drive and headroom.
Ultra-Low Distortion: THD + Noise <0.01% ensures pure, transparent amplification across the band.
Built-in MM Phono Stage: High-quality input with excellent overload margin for vinyl playback.
Home Theatre Direct Input: 30 dB gain bypasses preamp for seamless integration in AV systems.
The Musical Fidelity A5 is a true high-end integrated amplifier celebrated for its effortless power, natural timbre, and engaging musical flow.
This pre-owned unit is in great condition, complete with its original remote control, featuring the classic premium aluminium fascia, and comes as is with no original packaging.
With massive reserves and dual-mono design, the Musical Fidelity A5 delivers authoritative control over even the most demanding speakers while preserving delicate nuance and emotional involvement in every recording.
Visit our Lane Cove showroom and experience the commanding presence of the A5.
Technical Specifications
Product Type: Pre-owned
Power Output (8 Ω): 250 W per channel (24 dBW)
Power Output (4 Ω): 400 W per channel
Damping Factor: 140
Output Devices: 4 per channel
THD + Noise (20 Hz–20 kHz): <0.01%
Signal-to-Noise Ratio: >100 dB (‘A’-weighted)
Input Sensitivity (line): 330 mV for 250 W into 8 Ω
Input Impedance (line): 220 kΩ
Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz +0 / -0.2 dB
Phono Input (MM): Sensitivity 2.5 mV, SNR >96 dB (‘A’-weighted)
HT Direct Gain: 30 dB nominal
Pre-out Impedance: 50 Ω
Dimensions (W×H×D): 440 × 125 × 400 mm
Weight: 16.6 kg
Finish: Premium aluminium fascia
Condition: Great, includes original remote, no packaging
The item represented is being sold by a Commercial Member. This means they have certain legal requirements when selling new and second-hand goods, and must provide a statuatory warranty under Consumer Law applicable to their location. These requirements may differ depending on their region, so discuss these entitlements with the Seller prior to purchase.
### Sound Quality
Users consistently highlight its warm, full-bodied presentation resembling modern tube amps, with excellent bass control, spacious soundstage, sweet highs, and ample headroom for high volumes without distortion or clipping. It delivers rhythmic authority, clarity, detail, and composure across genres, from rock and classical to LPs via its capable phono stage. Some note a refined neutrality that belies its 250W/ch power, while a minority find it lean, bright, or less smooth than rivals like Yamaha AS2000.
### Build Quality
Described as built like a tank with compact dimensions and robust construction, it's praised for driving demanding speakers (e.g., Vandersteen 4A, Klipsch Heresy, Zu Essence) effectively. However, the remote receives criticism for poor quality, and one dealer noted cost-cutting versus prior models like A308.
### Reliability
No widespread reliability complaints emerge; long-term users report it as dependable for 1+ years in hybrid HT/2-channel setups, with consistent performance over time.
### Strengths
- Exceptional power and control for the price, ideal for second systems or budget setups.
- HT bypass, phono stage, and versatility with various speakers/sources.
- Entertaining, non-fatiguing sound with scale, imaging, and dynamics.
### Weaknesses
- Subjective brightness or leanness in some systems/ears, not suiting all tastes.
- Subpar remote control.
- Styling changes irk some longtime Musical Fidelity fans.
### Overall Reputation
The A5 enjoys a highly positive reputation as a "superb value" and "lot of amp for the money," often preferred over pricier rivals like Krell in auditions, with user ratings around 4.8/5 and recommendations for musical enjoyment over analytical precision. Dissenters exist but are outnumbered by enthusiasts calling it excellent for 2-channel purity.
## Price Range by Condition
Used/Pre-loved condition: $1,500–$2,200 AUD. A pre-loved unit at The Audio Tailor was listed at $2,200 AUD, while private sales and classified listings show prices ranging from approximately $1,500–$2,000 AUD when converted from international listings.
New condition: Historical pricing suggests the A5 retailed around $5,000 AUD as part of a two-component package (integrated amplifier and CDP), though current new stock availability appears limited in the Australian market.
## Key Factors Affecting Value
Condition and cosmetic state: Units described as mint condition with no cosmetic damage command prices at the higher end of the range. Cosmetic wear, scratches, or signs of heavy use reduce value accordingly.
Completeness and accessories: Inclusion of original remote control, cables, and documentation supports higher pricing. Units sold as preamp/power amplifier separates may price differently than integrated versions.
Local market dynamics: Australian retailers typically price higher than European second-hand markets (where the same model appears in the €700–€950 range), reflecting import costs and local demand.
Specifications and variant: The A5 produces 250 watts per channel with dual mono construction, which influences its positioning relative to other Musical Fidelity models. Newer variants like the M6Si (RRP $5,000) represent a more expensive product line.
Age and availability: As a discontinued model, scarcity in the local market can support pricing at the higher end of the range when units are genuinely in excellent condition.
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