Price: $499.99
Website: www.monitoraudio.com
Hans said: Monitor’s Airstream A100 is a honey of an amp that makes a compelling argument for never having to buy into traditional hi-fi of yore. With analog, digital, and wireless connectivity, an accomplished class-AB amplifier -- something its competitors can’t boast -- and sound quality that reaches well past its $499 price, it comes highly, highly recommended. $500 never sounded so good.
Read the SoundStage! Access review.
The gist: If you thought Monitor only made speakers, this component will make you think twice.