S.M.S.L AD18 HiFi Audio Stereo Amplifier with Bluetooth 4.2 Supports Apt-X,USB DSP Full Digital Power Amplifier 2.1 for Speaker,Small 80Wx2 Class D Amplifier with Subwoofer Output

Just get a simple amp with optical input then, https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

Sonos is super overpriced for what you get.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_Sh9cFb3DF5T9H

Are they any reliable 2.1 amps ~$150 or under?

I've been contemplating getting Micca RB42's to go with a TCL 6 series I have. My struggle has been looking for a reliable amp that I can add a sub to later if I want to add one. It seems like the SMSL AD18 is the best option that's recommended here that's small, but a lot of the Amazon reviews say that it fails pretty quickly. I've also looked at the Klipsch Powergate, but there are also some quality issues there too. Does anybody have experience with an amp at this price range or cheaper that would go with the RB42's and has lasted you?

Does something like an SMSL AD18 with an integrated CD player exist? I've tried searching for CD players with USB input but I've only found devices that work with iPods and USB sticks.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_em_apa_i_FfgBEbHB42MMD

Something like that will work for just two speakers. It has Bluetooth (not sure how you want to cast). I would connect the optical output from your TV.

If you want surround sound you need a real receiver and they're not small. If you're running wires in the wall anyway though, it would be easy to put a receiver in a closet or another room. Get a harmony remote with the hub to control the receiver if you won't have line of sight.

You simply need an integrated amplifier that has a subwoofer output.

Something like the SMSL AD18 in within budget, had a built in DAC, and subwoofer output.

Run optical to the AD18, speaker wire from the AD18 to your speakers, and RCA from the AD18 to your subwoofer.

For just music you could get something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_mj0iEbB5BB2W6

It should do everything that you need!

You're not going to find a multiroom amplifier for under $200 unless its on craigslist/facebook mp.

I would get this dude @ $180 to power the speakers and sub. For audio, I'd leverage the google ecosystem. I'm not 100% familiar with the google ecosystem but I believe you can setup multiroom audio using chromecasts/chromecast audios plugged directly into the amp and kitchen speakers and a google home/home mini to control.

SMSL AD18

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_8HDpFbJ4YTVAV

how is the bass on those speakers?

Do you think it would be a good idea to opt for this amp that has the ability to add a sub and also an earphone jack in front? Not sure if it is wildly different or has major disadvantages compared to the model you posted.

My brother is a car mechanic who works solo in his garage Mon-Sat and he's caught the audio bug lately. He's been looking into amps, DACs, speakers.

He really likes those tall tower speakers for some reason and is looking for recommendations. He's also recently had an SMSL AD18 die on him and shopping for a replacement.

Budget on speakers is probably max $500 and he'd like to buy used if possible. Amp or Dac budget is about $120 and again, would like to buy used.

Any recommendations?

you could, assuming your TV has a compatible audio output. unfortunately it looks like the C8 only has digital outputs, so you'd need either a stand alone DAC or an amp with one built in, which will be a bit more expensive

that being said, I wouldn't recommend that mini amp I posted above if you want to use it for home theatre. it's a decent amp (considering the features) for a desk setup, but it struggles with louder volumes and bass

a SMSL AD18 would give you good power, digital inputs, and bluetooth, but obviously it's a lot more expensive. there are probably cheaper options, especially if you go piecemeal, but unfortunately my knowledge of specific components isn't that deep. I'd check out /r/budgetaudiophile as they have a better idea of 2 channel budget amplifiers

i don´t really know what you are saying, but if its some cheap amp, you could just as well get this

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=smsl&qid=1589809727&sr=8-3

optical in, bluetooth, decent amp etc. its pretty popular and a good small solution thats reasonably priced at $150

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=mp_s_a_1_77?keywords=bluetooth+amplifier&qid=1581990473&sprefix=bluetooth+amp&sr=8-77

I ended up settling on the Wharfedale Diamond 225s and the SMSL AD18

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_wrEgFb1V7TRET

Thanks for the guidance!

Oh ok gotcha. The smsl ad18 will work.

Would this one work?

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1R8IOT0INK0SO&keywords=smsl+bluetooth+amplifier&qid=1583179917&sprefix=smsl+blu%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-3

I’ve never run this kind of setup, but first thought was for $400 you could definitely squeeze in a budget amp plus passive speakers if you wanted to.

Haven’t personally owned one but linked below is highly reviewed around here and has BT + USB inputs and is on sale. Would leave you like $275 for a set of bookshelf passives and there are some crazy deals in the stickied thread here worth checking out (like the ELAC or QAcoustics). Just a thought.

S.M.S.L AD18 HiFi Audio Stereo Amplifier with Bluetooth 4.2 Supports Apt-X,USB DSP Full Digital Power Amplifier 2.1 for Speaker,Small 80Wx2 Class D Amplifier with Subwoofer Output https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_fabt1_-.xVFbXX2Y9HY

AD18 plus R152 On Sale

I'm not an active fan so I would pass on anything active. It's just a waste of money if you want to expand in the future. The A2 will need a sub so you're almost stuck buying something else to pair with them.

Would the micca amp cause a significant difference in sound that depends on how you look at it. I don't like that it doesn't have tone controls or a remote. That's just me. One a desk the remote doesn't help but if you decide to move it that could be a real bummer. If you get an amp with a remote you can move it to a larger space without issues. I also like tone controls to best dial in the sound of the speakers. You might like a little less treble or a bit less bass to help it blend better with the sub. Without the cross over on the mains this could come in handy.

The AD18 is still my go to mini amp if you can afford it.

I'm using a SMSL AD18 to run my R-41M's on my desktop and it sounds great.

If you want to keep it compact I'd check out an SMSL AD18

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

The RCA out on that Schiit amp is preamp for powered speakers. This one works though, notice the speaker level outputs. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_5ET3Eb8V050ZZ

You could look at something like this: https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=mp_s_a_1_13?dchild=1&keywords=integrated+amplifier+smsl&qid=1597362481&sr=8-13

It’s very small but packs a bit of power for the size. The only real downside is the lack of RCA input (you could use an RCA-to-3.5 cable if you need this). Lots of digital options.

Don't buy the JBL 305 unless you're mixing. There's a host of issues and challenges that come with them (lack of upgradability/flexibility, limiting subwoofer choice, need for an interface using balanced outputs, audible hiss). It's not that they're bad speakers... just for an ordinary consumer, no compelling reason to put up with problems if all you're doing is listening to music.

I suggest the following:

ELAC Debut 2.0 b6.2

SMSL AD18

And save $10 for the required cables/wires.

Edit: As a bonus, you can ditch getting a DAC or interface later... the SMSL has an optical input. You can even sell your current interface if so inclined.

Awesome I appreciate it so much! I was actually looking into that SA18 exactly! Saw it recommended quite a bit AND I've been looking for a headphone amp.

​

Amazon has two listings, one (that you linked) won't deliver until Sept/Oct, and this one is next week. Can you do my a favor and let me know if there's any difference?

​

The one you linked.

The one that is in stock for the exact same price.

​

If the second one is something different I'll either order the SA50 or wait on the SA18 to be delivered / look into other options around that price point.

​

Once again, thanks a ton for the assistance! Audio has been my biggest lagging factor in terms of my home office/gaming and my home theater setups.

SMSL AD-18 is a device that will do everything you said for about half that price. It may not be perfect, but it will get you up and running to allow you to replace components as needed. It even has a subwoofer out, as your speakers are rated down to 40 Hz.

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

Just as a side note, you may want to bring those L710's to an audio shop to give them a once-over. The foam surrounds can rot over time, as well as leaky capacitors in the crossovers. That's not to say anything bad about those particular speakers, just that these are common problems from gear of that era.

Cheapest and simplest option is to use the headphone jack for analog audio into a stereo amp, feeding a stereo pair of bookshelf speakers. That way your TV remote will still handle volume control, and you don't have to worry about any ARC wonkiness or audio sync issues. Amps like this are relatively affordable and small. A couple of common recommendations on the budget-ish end: https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-dta-21bt2-100w-21-class-d-bluetooth-amplifier-with-sub-frequency-adjustment--300-3831

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_VZgSFb6YRPHTR

Main downside is, no upgrade path to anything more than stereo audio. But more $ to put toward speakers!

These two together might work:

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-apa150-150w-power-amplifier--300-812

From the linked listing, it appears that you need something like this:

Adapter cable

Check the 5th Pic in this Amazon listing

Plug this into COAX OPT1 port then plug the red RCA end into your sub's line level input. Looks like some pretty clever port sharing as you can then still use the white connector to connect an SPDIF coaxial digital input.

The mono plug you're using is probably connecting to the left channel of the port on the amp and that's wired for coaxial digital in. You can tape off/strip back and cut off the left channel white RCA plug and cable if you insist but I wouldn't bother.

Thank you! I use the Edifier R1280T for my PC speakers and love them. I should have stated my budget earlier, which is $500 so I'd like to get the best SQ possibly within that budget. I'm definitely considering going Bluetooth with the Edifier S2000MKIII or M200MKIII+.

But what do you think about getting one of these for $150 S.M.S.L AD18- https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071JN7GXN/ref=ask_ql_qh_dp_hza

and a set of passive speakers such as the Ascend CBM-170 SE for $300 would be a better route and connecting my phone with one of these- https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-Drift-Extension-Headphone-Compatible/dp/B07BTVQ8YC

Right now my main home theater speakers are the JBL Studio 230 so if I end up liking the Ascend CBM-170 SE better I could have those as my new main L/R for the theater and have the 230's for music speakers in my workout room.

In your opinion, do you think that would be a better route for sound quality?

For your middle-most question, here's something to consider. Depending on whether you're after sound quality vs convenience, it may be best to instead cobble up your own little bookshelf system. Boxed stereos usually don't sound terrific... depends on your needs.

Consider a decent quality class D amp and a nice set of bookshelf speakers. I'd take a look at: (hope you don't mind the Amazon links...)

These speakers

This amp

Also of course look at things related to the items linked, but that \~$300 will build you a pretty nice little HiFi, it's essentially what I have setup in my bedroom and I'm extremely happy with it. No tuner, no cassette, you'll need to get your own players, but this will sound a LOT better than some boxed set all-in-one type of deal

https://www.amazon.com/ELAC-Debut-Bookshelf-Speakers-Black/dp/B07B4Q5587

i'm using this to power them https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

If you want something tiny something like this would work. You can get a usb to optical adaptor for your computer and feed this thing via optical cable.

S.M.S.L AD18 HiFi Audio Stereo Amplifier with Bluetooth 4.2 Supports Apt-X,USB DSP Full Digital Power Amplifier 2.1 for Speaker,Small 80Wx2 Class D Amplifier with Subwoofer Output https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H0wEEbS7JP522Amp

Pretty simple, get an amp with 2 inputs and whatever passive speakers you can afford.

SMSL AD18 can take the rca from your Turntable (you need RCA to 3.5 adapter though) and then optical from your TV. There's an open box/warehouse one on there for $125 leaving you with $50-100 ish after buying cables and speaker wire. You could get any of these Daytons for a decent system.

You have an HSU subwoofer in a condo and are buying a soundbar? I am getting mixed signals.

The Klipsch Bar 48 sucks so bad that even rtings doesn't like it.

https://www.rtings.com/soundbar/reviews/klipsch/bar-48

Grab yourself a pair of bookshelf speakers and an amp.

https://www.htd.com/Level-TWO-Bookshelf-Speakers

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

I just ordered some of the last available Philharmonic Affordable Accuracy Mini's (Dennis Murphy modded Pioneer SP-BS22) and need some help integrating them into my existing setup. I currently have a Schiit Fulla 2 dac that I use with my headphones. Source is typically Tidal through my PC. I am looking for an amp that I could connect to the dac and go to the passive speakers and could also add a powered sub later on. Also toying with bluetooth amps just for extra versatilty with the speakers but don't really need it (Use PC as source 90% of the time)

So far I've found this

Will that be easy to add a powered sub to later on or would something like this be better/easier to use with my existing setup?

An amp with built-in DSP would do the trick. Something like the Dayton DTA-PRO or the SMSL AD18. Either would allow you to feed digital music from computer to DAC amp through USB 2.0 cable (no sound card required), and also adds Bluetooth streaming from your smartphone with the computer either on or off.

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-dta-pro-100w-class-d-bluetooth-amplifier-with-usb-dac-ir-remote-and-sub-outpu--300-3835

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN

Desktop PC and Vinyl DJ Setup for Living Room - System Advice

Hi Everyone,

I recently moved into a very open concept apartment, and I'm looking for help to upgrade my audio setup for both my desk PC and an adjacent vinyl DJ setup. The living rooms is the about 30' x 30' with 11' ceilings. My goal is to create a complete setup in which I can have 2 speakers and 1 receiver for both systems, and easily toggle between the two. While it may not be the BEST to configure my room like this, I don't have the funds for two dedicated systems.

I am currently rocking an old LG Bookshelf speaker set, the kind from best buy in the mid 2000's that includes a receiver, 5-Disk CD player, and cassette player that only pumps 25W per channel. This lives on my desk and while it worked for my needs in the past, it only plays music much louder than PC Monitor can and I'm looking for more. It doesn't have a headphone amp, it's bulky, unappealing and is incompatible with the vinyl setup. The vinyl rig is currently two Technics SL-1200 running through an A&H Xone 23 mixer.

Bulleted Information:

• $500 Budget
• Located in U.S., so most retailers are an option
• Use for Music, DJ-ing (vinyl & Digital), Gaming
• Desk & Room Setup
• PC
• Technics SL-1200 MK2 + Allen & Heath Xone 23
• 30'L x 30'W x 11'H Room
• Passive (open to Powered)

Now for the what I'm envisioning. From where I sit to where I would like to stand and DJ is about 8 feet a part. I would like to put two speakers on stands on either side of my desk, with the speaker on the right between my desk and the turntables. My thoughts are I can easily turn the speakers to project more through the room than when I'm sitting at my desk, and I am normally DJ-ing with friends hanging out so it's not imperative for me to the focal point. Speakers that can get loud and fill up the room are more important than the near field experience since I mainly use them for listening. If possible I'd like to have the system compact so it can sit on top of my desk, and include a headphone amp.

Initial System Idea

• Micca RB-42 ($150)
• S.M.S.L AD-18 ($150)
• Speaker Stands ($100)
• Cables & Extras ($50)

Other things I've though of but I need help with are I'm not sure if I need a switch, as it seems I should be able to connect to the AD-18 and have that change sources. The Xone 23 mixer has XLR and Dual RCA Leads to connect to an amplifier, Since the AD-18 doesn't have those connections I'll need to get something like XLR -> 3.5mm.

Let me know your thoughts on if this will work, or if you have recommendations on how to change it. I'm open to all suggestions.

I've been using the Lepy LP-2020A to use for my speakers and turntable for a year or two now and its been broken for a while and I am finally getting around to replacing it. I was looking at either the Dayton Audio DTA-120BT2 or the S.M.S.L AD18. I do not care about having the USB and the DTA-120 being so much cheaper is very appealing. Is there any reason for me to jump to the AD18 instead?

I’m looking for a new amp to power my old EPI 200b speakers.

Budget is $100 ~ 200.

Would like it to have optical or hdmi input to connect to the TV.

Was looking at.

S.M.S.L AD18

Klipsch Powergate

What sort of impact would there be to the sound quality dropping from 125w @ 8ohms per channel down to the 40w from the SMSL or 100w from the Klipsch?

Any better alternatives within my price range?

Is there anything that transmits Bluetooth so I can pair my headphones for when the kids are asleep?

Thanks.

It sounds like you aren't interested in surround sound, so any AVR is going to be overkill. To save space, you want to search for desktop amp. This Topping or this SMSL are two commonly recommended budget choices. Neither will probably function very well as a headphone amp (the SMSL certainly doesn't), but those ATs are low impedance so it should not be a big deal.

FWIW, SMSL seems to have more QC issues than Topping. I have the model linked and it blew what I think is the ground months ago and now has an obnoxious hum when using the speakers. If I did it all over, I'd get a Topping or spend up for something from a more established company like this Audio Engine N22.

SMSL SA300 new Infineon chip. SMSL AD18, Micca OriGain, Dayton Audio DTA-PRO.

No, one way or another you need an Amplifier. Though these need not cost that much.

Here is a highly regarded amp with lots of features and power for a modest amount of money -

SMSL AD-18 Amp with DAC and Bluetooth - $145 -

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/

But if you are really on a desperate budget, you can get smaller amps for less money -

Lepai 20w/ch Amp - $25 -

https://www.amazon.com/Lepy-LP-2020A-Digital-Amplifier-Stereo/dp/B00C2P61FO/

Of course a bigger amp with more power is always desirable, but here is a video of the Lepai driving some 6.5" Wharfedale speakers -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyE96bwvwFQ

Of course there are dozens of amp to choose from. This amp is rated at 50w/ch and has Bluetooth 5.0 for £60 -

https://www.amazon.com/Bluetooth-Audio-Amplifier-Receiver-Integrated/dp/B076XSBCCL/

sale right now Klipsch 41m 90$

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-R-41M-Powerful-Detailed-Bookshelf/dp/B07FKH3VPV/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=klipsch+41&qid=1606259510&s=electronics&sr=1-2

Amp 130$

https://www.amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=smsl+18&qid=1606259594&s=electronics&sr=1-1

What is your budget? :) Here is an all in one: SMSL AD18

Here is what i rec though:

Topping Pa3

JDS Atom Amp

JDS OL DAC

Headphones are pretty subjective, any idea what sound you like in headphone?

As far as speakers i love these: Micca RB42

>I have my eye on the topping L30, but worry that 3.5 amps out is not enough for passive speakers?

First, don't rely on Topping's specs for the L30. They require a higher voltage DAC input, not the standard 2V input of many DACs. This is more realistic of what people will get with the L30 https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/topping-l30-headphone-amplifier-review.15226/

And no. You will want a speaker amp for speakers, not a headphone amp. A little speaker amp like this can work very well in a desktop setup: https://amazon.com/TDA7498E-Audio-Amplifier-Receiver-Integrated/dp/B077GWVHHN/

Or a combo speaker amp, DAC, headphone amp unit:

https://amazon.com/S-M-S-L-AD18-Amplifier-Bluetooth-Subwoofer/dp/B071JN7GXN/

https://www.amazon.com/Multifunction-Bluetooth-Headphone-Amplifier-Amplifiers/dp/B07TX8J2GX/

They're actually relatively cheap for speakers, but they're passive so you'll need a DAC/Amp to make them work with your PC.

Micca RB42 About $150

SMSL AD18 DAC/Amp about $150

Amazon Basics Speaker Cable about $10

Banana Plugs (Not necessary but makes plugging and unplugging cables to the speakers easier) about $10

It's all a matter of connecting them properly. PC ==USB==> SMSL AD18 ==Copper Cable with Banana Plugs==>Speakers

Makes a whole world of difference compared to ordinary computer speakers or with those expensive Logitech sets.

Then I used some speaker wall mounts and mounted them to the wall using drywall anchor. They've been on for a few months now and they're still sturdy and stable into the wall. I used the big white drywall anchors for mine.

The monitor isn't wireless. As far as I'm concerned, there aren't any wireless monitors. I just have mine wall mounted then I used these to run the cables behind the wall.

Here's a how to run cables behind your wall safely.

Here's the wall mount I'm using.

For the speaker wires, I ran them behind the wall using a circular hole saw bit for my drill. Then I covered the holes with those plastic cable hole cover pass through things. Both bit and cover were bought from home depot. I used the same technique to run the cables under my desk through a hole through my desk.