AUDIOLAB 6000MkII > Trusted Reviews and A British Audiophile reviews

The Audiolab 6000A MkII represents the second generation of the highly acclaimed amplifier, which was already very popular among hi-fi audio enthusiasts in its original version. The new model retains a minimalist design and affordable price, while introducing significant technical improvements, including an advanced DAC, improved power architecture, and connectivity options that even include HDMI ARC for home cinema setups.

Design and Build Quality

The 6000A MkII follows the clean and elegant lines of its predecessor. It is available in black or silver, with an aluminum casing that gives an impression of solidity and prestige. On the front panel, there are three knobs: for input selection, volume, and menu navigation, with a crisp OLED display in the center showing the current setting.
Despite the modern look, some users note that the external Bluetooth antenna slightly detracts from the unit's symmetry. The remote control is functional, but its large number of buttons may not be the most intuitive for beginners.

Advanced DAC

The 6000A MkII is equipped with a Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC, which supports playback up to 32-bit/768kHz PCM. This is a high-end DAC, and the improved sound quality reflects this. It is paired with a dedicated Class A post-DAC filter stage, resulting in more natural and open sound reproduction.
Users have access to five digital filters, allowing sound customization according to the source and listener preferences.

Amplification and Power Supply

This is a Class AB amplifier offering 50 W per channel at 8 ohms and 75 W at 4 ohms. Compared to its predecessor, current delivery has been improved (up to 11 A), which means better control over speakers.
A 200 VA transformer and four 15,000 uF capacitors ensure stable power, strong dynamics, and excellent transient response.

Analog and Digital Connections

The amplifier offers a wide range of inputs:
3 analog RCA inputs
1 MM phono input
2 optical and 2 coaxial digital inputs
HDMI ARC for TV connection
Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD for wireless playback
Outputs include a headphone jack, pre-out for active speakers, and standard speaker terminals.
Users can operate the unit in three modes: as an integrated amplifier, as a preamplifier, or with separated preamp and power amp stages.

Digital Sources

The 6000A MkII delivers open, precise, and expressive sound. Details are crisp, the soundstage is wide, and dynamics are convincing. Music of all genres sounds natural and engaging.

Vinyl Sources

The built-in MM phono stage is quiet, precise, and warm enough for analog sound lovers. It performs on par with many standalone phono stages in higher price ranges.

Headphones

The headphone output is more than just a convenience. The dedicated headphone amp drives a wide range of headphones with dynamic, detailed, and balanced sound. Some users report lower volume with certain models, which may be due to headphone impedance or sensitivity.

User Experience

The device is responsive, the menus are clear, and the OLED screen provides sharp feedback. Bluetooth connection is stable, and HDMI ARC allows easy TV sound control via remote.
Previously, some users reported issues with settings not being retained after shutdown, but this has been resolved with a firmware update.

Comparison with Other Amplifiers

In this price range, the 6000A MkII is one of the most versatile models. It offers a better DAC than most competitors, HDMI ARC (a rarity), a quality MM phono stage, and solid power.
Compared to models such as the Cambridge CXA61, Marantz PM7000N, or Rotel A11, it provides better connectivity and flexibility, though perhaps not the strongest output.

Who Is It For?

The 6000A MkII is ideal for:
audiophile beginners and advanced users
those who want a mix of analog and digital inputs
users of turntables with MM cartridges
those seeking simple yet high-quality TV sound via HDMI ARC
listeners with bookshelf or moderately demanding floor-standing speakers

Conclusion

The Audiolab 6000A MkII is an upgrade that makes sense. It retains everything that was great about the original and enhances it with a better DAC, improved power supply, and modern connectivity. It offers exceptional value for money and features usually found in significantly more expensive devices.
Its versatility, build quality, and most of all, its sound, place it among the best choices for those looking for a true hi-fi hub for their home system—regardless of the sound source.

Audiolab 6000A MkII
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