If you’ve been thinking about replacing your old receiver or amp with something higher quality, this article is the perfect place to start looking.
You’ll find all of our favorite models listed below, complete with pros and cons so that you can make an informed choice about which one is right for your needs. We’ve put together some of the best integrated amplifiers under $ 1000 just for you.
Outlaw 5000x
RANK
Best for Home Theater
5-channel
5 x 120 W into 8Ω
5 x 180 W into 4Ω
XLR / RCA input connectors
Boyuu MT-34
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Best Stereo Tube Amplifier
2-channel
2×25 Watts
CD/AUX/TAPE Input connectors
Crown XLi3500
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Most Powerful Stereo Amplifiers
2-channel
2×1000 Watts 8Ω
XLR / RCA input connectors
Outlaw Model 5000x 5-Channel – Best Integrated Amplifiers for Home Theater under $1000
| Channels | 5 |
| Power | 5 x 120W into 8Ω 5 x 180W into 4Ω |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz -20kHz +/- 0.5 dB at rated output (120W) |
| Input | XLR, RCA |
| Input Sensitivity | 1.2V |
Utilizing desktop integrated amplifiers, the Outlaw Model 5000x is one of the best affordable options available on the market. With a solid build quality, 5 input channels, and an output of 120 Watts per channel, these amplifiers will be great for any home studio.
📈 You can get everything from full lows to full highs without any distortions or noise when it comes to sound quality. This high-quality unit delivers exceptional sound quality thanks to its wide frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz and improved dynamic range.
🔌 One of the most important aspects of any home studio is connectivity. The Outlaw Model 5000x includes 5 line-level inputs with XLR and RCA connectors, making it easy to connect almost any audio source. In addition, it has 5 adjustable outputs.
The front features a large gain button and a headphone output jack. Large LEDs indicate the amount of gain applied to your signal, as well as when protection features are enabled.
Outlaw Model 5000x is one of the best stereo integrated amplifiers for home theater that offers great connectivity, solid build quality, and great sound quality at an affordable price.
Crown XLS2002 Two-channel – Best Stereo Integrated Amplifiers for Home Studio under $1000
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 650W into 4Ω 2 x 375W into 8Ω 2 x 2100W into 4Ω Bridges 2 x 1300W into 8Ω Bridges |
| Frequency Response | 20Hz -20kHz, +0dB, -1dB |
| Input | XLR, 1/4″, RCA |
| Input Sensitivity | 0.775Vrms or 1.4Vrms |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | 103dB |
Crown XLS 2002 is a 2-channel stereo integrated amplifier, which has proven reliable and fully complies with the ratio of quality prices. This is a very well-done device that sounds better than many competitors.
🎛 The Crown XLS 2002 has a clean and simple design with three main controls – an LCD screen with three buttons (Menu / Prev / Next) and two gain controls on the sides.
🔌 It also has XLR, 1/4″, and RCA inputs so you can connect all your audio sources.
⚡ Power Matrix. The model produces:
- 375 W per channel into 8 ohms;
- 650 W into 4 ohms;
- 1050 W at 2 ohms;
- In the bridge mode, the power is 1300 W (8 Ohm) and 2100 W (4 ohms).
📈 Independent level regulators are provided for both channels, as well as a PureBand™ crossover with 4 modes of operation. The frequency range is from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
Crown XLS2002 is a two-channel one of the best-integrated amplifiers for the home studio under 1000 dollars, compact and with good sound quality.
BoyuuRange MT-34- Best Stereo Tube Amplifiers under $1000
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 25W(ultra-linear) 2 x 15W (Triode) |
| Frequency Response | 30 Hz – 45 kHz |
| Input | CD / AUX / TAPE |
| Input Sensitivity | 550 mV |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | 88 dB |
To begin, the BoyuuRange MT-34 MKII is a tube integrated amplifier. The output stage includes a 5Z4P amplifier tube, followed by an EL34 pentode in both channels. It also helps that these tubes sound amazing, so there’s no question why they’re preferred by many audiophiles and professional musicians.
📈 The MT-34 MKII from BoyuuRange features excellent push-pull hi-fi amplification capabilities. It has an input sensitivity of 550mV and an output power of 2 x 25W. The tubes are a single 5Z4P, 4x EL348, and 3x 6N1J. The frequency response range is 19Hz – 43kHz.
🔊 It has 2 modes, ultra-linear and triode mode, and it is not difficult to hear the difference The triode mode has a lush, laid-back sound stage, while the ultra-linear mode does some rock-and-roll justice.
After much research, we believe that the best tube amplifier under $1000 is the BoyuuRange MT-34 MKII. The sound is absolutely phenomenal, and it’s constructed from quality materials with a long life span. It also looks really great too! Totally recommend.
Crown XLi3500 Two-channel – Most Powerful Stereo Integrated Amplifiers under $1000
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 1350W into 4Ω 2 x 1000W into 8Ω 2 x 2700W into 8Ω Bridges |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 20kHz, +0/-1 dB (at 1 watt) |
| Input | XLR, RCA |
| Input Sensitivity | 0.775V or 1.4V |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | >100 dB |
The Crown XLi 3500 is a 2,700-watt power amplifier that can easily fit in mobile and traditional PA rigs, or worship homes, for example. It has user-selectable input sensitivity (.755V or 1.4V) that makes it easy to pair with your inputs.
🔌 It also comes standard with XLR and RCA output connectors so you can hook up the mic or speakers with ease.
🔊 Excellent sound quality. This is probably the most important thing that you should take into account when you decide to buy such a device. The Crown XLi 3500 can definitely give you great sound quality as it has many advantages over other stereo amplifiers under $1,000. The RCA inputs have great fidelity, they also have an excellent signal-to-noise ratio and low distortion level (below 1%).
Whether you need an amp that can do stereo, parallel, or bridged-mono mode, XLi series amps will do the trick. Even if you’re constantly reconfiguring your system, you’ll get all the versatility you need from your XLi 3500.
Yamaha PX5 Dual Channel 2x800W – Easiest To Use Stereo Integrated Amplifiers
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 1050W into 4Ω 2 x 800W into 8Ω 2 x 600W into 2Ω |
| Frequency Response | ±1.0dB (1W, 8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) |
| Input | XLR, RCA |
| Input Sensitivity | – |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | 101dB |
The Yamaha PX5 is the best 2-channel Class AB amplifier we’ve reviewed, thanks to onboard equalization for fine-tuning your mix, crossover filters for integrating subs and fills, speaker-saving limiter for canceling out problematic frequencies, and sound quality that’s far beyond what you’d expect from a class AB amp.
🖥 The LCD display makes it easy to control and set up your system, making it perfect for non-professional users.
🎛 For quick and easy setup, models in the PX series feature flexible onboard crossover, filters, delay, limiter, and PEQ (fixed preset) functions. This allows users to achieve consistent clarity and high-quality sound for either front-of-house or monitor configurations.
🔊 The PX5 delivers full-range performance with full 800W power output on all channels at 4 ohms.
🔌 The Yamaha PX5 is designed to interface with a variety of inputs and outputs, including XLR, TRS, and phone jacks. It has a binding post and Neutrik Speakon® outputs that let you hook up multiple amps in a single rack to power your multispeaker setup. Its rack-mounting system allows for easy installation of multiple PX5s in one rack.
If you want something powerful, universal, and affordable Yamaha PX5 is the best stereo amplifier for you. This is designed to take into account audiophiles because it delivers much more than just clear sound.
Crown XTi2002 Two-channel – Best Stereo Integrated Amplifiers under $1000
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 800W into 4Ω 2 x 475W into 8Ω 2 x 1000W into 2Ω 2 x 2000W into 4Ω Bridges 2 x 1600W into 8Ω Bridges |
| Frequency Response | ±1.0dB (1W, 8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) |
| Input | XLR |
| Input Sensitivity | 1.4V |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | 100dB |
An amplifier can take the sound quality of your system to a whole new level—it improves a system’s soundstage, tonal accuracy, and dynamics. It can also add the final touch to a system, by raising or lowering output levels and adjusting the delay time for a delay effect.
The Crown XTi2002 is a great example of how a amplifier can enhance a system’s overall sonic performance.
🔊 Let’s face it—most digital systems don’t sound as good as their analog counterparts. Crown Peakx Plus Limiter technology is a way to add a little extra punch without overextending yourself. You can push your sound to the edge without going too far and risking stress on your system.
Crown XTi2002 the most excellent two-channel integrated amplifier. In my opinion, it’s a good product from Crown company which is known as one of the best companies in the speaker market and digital audio industry.
Crown’s XTi 2 Series integrated amplifier won’t let your sound system down. They’re loaded with innovative features, including advanced limiters for full control and integrated signal processing tools for getting the perfect tone.
QSC A-B Box, MultiColored (GX7) – Best Stereo Integrated Amplifiers under $1000
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 1000W into 4Ω 2 x 725W into 8Ω |
| Frequency Response | ±1.0dB (1W, 8Ω, 20Hz to 20kHz) |
| Input | XLR, RCA, 1/4″ TRS |
| Input Sensitivity | 1.2V |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | 100 dB |
Looking for a lightweight, high-powered amp with a professional performance that won’t break the bank? Check out the QSC GX7 Power Amplifier.
Like all QSC models, it was designed to deliver the professional audio quality, meticulous engineering, precision manufacturing, and long-term reliability. The GX7 has dramatic styling, easy hookup and adjustments, excellent audio quality, and QSC reliability.
🔊 The GX7 amplifier can power 4-ohm speakers at over 1000 watts. Its accurate mic level input allows you to use your favorite microphone or audio interface. The GX7 is the world’s most powerful portable PA system, with a power output of 725 watts into an 8-ohm load and 1000 watts into a 4-ohm load.
GuardRail is a patented technology that helps pro audio equipment avoid detrimental overloads during excessive clipping or extreme overheating. It senses when system limitations are approaching and automatically reduces gain just enough to protect your gear, while still delivering full peak performance to the audience.
🔌 The front panel is minimalist with a row of pushbuttons, one LED per channel that indicates signal presence or clipping status while the rear panel sports standard RCA connectors for either input or output signals and a pair of XLR connections for microphone inputs.
The QSC GX7 is one of the best-integrated amplifiers under $ 1000. It has all the standard jacks, relatively small dimensions, but with professional quality.
Parasound Model 275 v.2 – Best Stereo Integrated Amplifiers under $1000
| Channels | 2 |
| Power | 2 x 150W into 4Ω 2 x 90W into 8Ω |
| Frequency Response | 20 Hz – 50 kHz, +0/-3 dB, 1 watt |
| Input | RCA |
| Input Sensitivity | 800 mV |
| Signal-to-Noise Ration(SNR) | 100 dB |
NewClassic Model 275 v.2 is a completely redesigned model from the old version of Parasound. The changes were big, but the company made sure to keep everything you love about it exactly the same.
The NewClassic Series features an advanced, ultra-efficient design that runs cooler than previous models, so you can put them in a rack or cabinet without worrying about overheating. The redesigned power supplies deliver all the voltage you need for transient peaks in your music or special effects.
🔊 If you are listening to music in a small room, then the Model 275 v.2 Amplifier with 90W per channel into 8 ohms and 150W into 4 ohms is probably the best choice for you.
It’s also ready for bridged mono—delivering 200W into 8 ohms or 4 ohms at about 0.1% THD.
⚡️ Designed for custom installation, the NewClassic amplifiers provide automatic turn-on and turn-off when an audio signal is detected. It also has a DC trigger that can switch it on or off via loop output.
🔌 Other features include gain controls on the back panel, gold-plated RCA input jacks, and loop output jacks, gold plated five-way speaker terminals, which make them perfect for driving two pairs of speakers or bridging into one pair of speakers.
Best Stereo Integrated Amplifiers Buying guide
When it comes to picking out the right amplifiers for your sound, it can be a difficult choice. The market is flooded with tons of different brands and models, each with its own set of features and specifications.
It’s easy to get lost in the mix, so today we’re here to help you find the best integrated amplifiers for your needs. Let’s go ahead and cover these five important points: power, connectors, number of channels, outputs impedance, signal to noise.
Power
We’ll start with power because it’s usually around this point that most people get confused about which amp will be right. If you’re looking to run a pair of full-range speakers, you’ll want something that offers under 500 watts, which is usually more than enough power to get your sound up to par. If you plan to use multiple speakers or a home theater setup, you’ll need more power, from 600W.
Connectors
Before buying, you need to know what you will connect and what connectors are needed. There are two types of cables – balanced and unbalanced.
Balanced:
- XLR – is used mainly to connect microphones.
- TRS (6.35 mm, 3.5mm, 2.5mm) is also known as Jack, used to transfer an audio signal for example to headphones or connecting a professional speaker system, musical instruments, etc.
Unbalanced:
- TS (TIP-Sleeve) ¼ “connector, such as can be used to connect the guitar to the amplifier.
- RCA, previously used to transfer a stereo signal in acoustic systems.
Number of channels
Traditional amplifiers can only handle two channels, which means they can produce stereo sound from two sources at once. If you’re looking for more flexibility and capability from your amplifier (e.g. you want to record a band), you may want to invest in a amplifier that supports three, four, or more channels
Outputs impedance
Everything is simple here, the output impedance must match the connected device. For example, if you connect speakers with 4 ohms, then the amplifier must be with the same impedance.
The volume and partly “clarity” of the sound depend on this.
Do not connect a device with a lower impedance!
Signal to Noise
The signal-to-noise ratio is one of the most important numbers you’ll see on any piece of audio gear. It describes how much background noise will be introduced into your amplifier by the device (for example, an analog tape machine) as opposed to how much actual usable sound will come out. The higher the signal-to-noise ratio, the better. Professional analog tape machines boast a 115dB S/N ratio, while professional digital audio workstations top out at about 100dB.
