Munich 2025

Over three years ago, when I reviewed Accustic Arts’s AMP V stereo power amplifier, I called it "the most intelligently designed hunk I’ve ever put my hands on, and one of the finest and most musically satisfying amplifiers to ever enter my system." I wish it were still here so I could reevaluate it with my current system, which has become exponentially more revealing.

Not content to rest on its laurels, Accustic Arts has since replaced AMP V with (what else) AMP VI. The new product has a redesigned power supply that includes a new transformer and larger capacitors. US distributor Philip O'Hanlon of On a Higher Note claims that the AMP VI has a richer-sounding midrange and more bass control, and an increased ability to drive difficult-to-handle loudspeakers. Power output has increased from 900Wpc to 950Wpc into 8 ohms. There's also a Gold Edition with 24k-gold-plated feet, knobs, fasteners, and more.

The German company, which apparently focuses most of its energy on product design rather than fanciful names for those products, is about to release many new models. The POWER V reference dual-mono stereo integrated ($34,990), due in August, will output 300Wpc into 8 ohms. Complete with HDMI input and improved adjustable damping factor linearization control, it can be outfitted with either a phono or DAC plug-in module. An optional streaming module for the POWER V is expected next year.

The hybrid tube DAC V (starting at $29,990) was designed to offer a warmer sound; a solid-state output stage is also available for people who prefer a more neutral sonic character. Accustic Arts's reference dual-mono stereo DAC features an ESS 9038 chip that decodes PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to 1024 via USB. Both DAC V models are fully buffered and include an analog volume control and an HDMI-ARC input for TV connections. O'Hanlon points out that it can be used as a preamplifier in a digital-input-only system. DAC V will hopefully reach the US market by 2026.

Before then, anticipate the Accustic Arts AMP I stereo amplifier ($21,990), expected in June. It is specified to deliver 330Wpc into 4 ohms. The amp will feature Accustic Arts's latest iteration of its damping factor linearization control.

Accustic Arts is also preparing to release the solid-state PRE I ($14,990 and up). It’s the company's first standalone stereo preamplifier. The product will include an integrated headphone amplifier, and offer optional, user-installable phono and DAC modules.

Lastly, the company is working on an upgraded MONO VI, an amp that will have additional transistors, power capacitors, and a redesigned transformer for increased power delivery to difficult-to-drive loudspeakers.

Struggling to be seen over so many new models: company owner Hans-Joachim Voss and chief engineer Sebastian Ruhland.