Audio T Verdict
The Audiolab 7000A sits neatly between the affordable 6000A MKII and flagship 9000A, combining greater power and control with an extremely useful collection of analogue, digital and television connections.
Its discrete Class AB power stage delivers 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 110 watts into 4 ohms. The ES9038Q2M DAC, USB audio input and Class A post-DAC filter stage also make it a particularly capable choice for computer-based and high-resolution digital listening.
HDMI ARC, Bluetooth aptX HD, a Moving Magnet phono stage, headphone amplifier and separate preamplifier and power-amplifier modes give the 7000A enough flexibility to remain at the heart of a system as it develops.
Audiolab 7000A Integrated Amplifier
The Audiolab 7000A is a versatile integrated stereo amplifier designed to bridge the gap between the compact 6000 Series and the higher-level 9000 Series.
It combines a discrete Class AB power amplifier, analogue preamplifier, Moving Magnet phono stage, headphone amplifier and high-resolution ESS Sabre DAC within one full-width component.
Three analogue line inputs, four S/PDIF inputs, USB audio, HDMI ARC and Bluetooth provide connections for turntables, CD transports, streamers, computers, televisions and mobile devices.
Discrete Class AB Amplification
The 7000A delivers 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 110 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
Its discrete power-amplifier stage uses Audiolab’s Complementary Feedback topology, designed to provide good linearity and consistent thermal behaviour as the output transistors reach their normal operating temperature.
The maximum published output current is 11 amps, providing useful control with speakers whose impedance falls below their nominal rating during demanding musical passages.
250VA Toroidal Transformer
A substantial 250VA toroidal transformer supplies the amplifier’s analogue circuitry.
Four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors provide 60,000µF of total power-supply storage, helping the amplifier respond to short musical peaks while maintaining control over the connected speakers.
Independent low-noise supplies are used for critical sections of the circuit, while the internal layout is arranged to reduce interference reaching the sensitive preamplifier and DAC stages.
Speaker Matching
The 7000A can partner a wide range of modern passive loudspeakers, including many substantial standmount and floorstanding designs.
Successful matching depends on more than the amplifier’s headline wattage. Consider:
- Speaker sensitivity
- Nominal and minimum impedance
- Room dimensions
- Listening distance
- Preferred volume
- Low-frequency demands
- The amount of electrical current required by the speaker
The 7000A’s 110-watt output into 4 ohms and 11-amp current capability provide greater headroom than the 6000A MKII, although an audition remains advisable with particularly insensitive or difficult loudspeakers.
Avoid Amplifier Clipping
A smaller amplifier driven beyond its clean operating range can damage a loudspeaker more readily than a more powerful amplifier used sensibly.
Reduce the volume immediately if the sound becomes harsh, compressed or obviously distorted.
ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC.
The chip uses ESS HyperStream architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator technology, supported by Audiolab’s proprietary clocking, power-supply and analogue circuitry.
Audiolab has used ESS Sabre converters across several generations of products, allowing the surrounding circuit to be developed specifically around the characteristics of the chipset rather than simply installing it as an isolated component.
Class A Post-DAC Filter Stage
The analogue filtering immediately following the DAC is a critical part of the final sound.
The 7000A uses a Class A post-DAC active filter stage derived from the circuit developed for the flagship 9000A.
This stage converts and filters the DAC’s output before it reaches the preamplifier, helping maintain low noise, wide dynamic range and a clean transition from the digital to analogue sections.
USB Audio up to 32-Bit/768kHz
A rear USB Type B input allows a compatible Windows computer or Mac to connect directly to the internal DAC.
PCM playback is supported at sampling rates up to 768kHz, while DSD playback extends through DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512.
Windows computers may require the appropriate Audiolab USB audio driver. Compatible Mac systems can normally use the amplifier through their built-in USB audio support.
Use the Correct USB Socket
The square USB Type B socket is the PC USB audio input.
The separate USB Type A socket marked Update is intended for firmware updates and control synchronisation with the Audiolab 7000N Play. It is not a general USB memory audio input.
Roon Tested
The 7000A is identified as Roon Tested.
This means Audiolab has supplied the product to Roon for compatibility testing with supported computers and operating systems.
The amplifier does not contain a network connection or operate as a Roon Ready streamer on its own. A computer, Roon endpoint or compatible network player is still required to supply audio through USB, S/PDIF or another supported connection.
Four S/PDIF Digital Inputs
Two optical and two coaxial digital inputs are provided for compatible digital sources.
Potential connections include:
- CD transports
- Network music streamers
- Televisions
- Games consoles
- Blu-ray and DVD players
- Digital radio tuners
- Compatible set-top boxes
The optical and coaxial inputs accept PCM sampling frequencies from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
Digital Upsampling
The 7000A can upsample incoming S/PDIF and PC USB signals to either 352.8kHz or 384kHz, according to the source sampling rate.
Upsampling can also be switched off, allowing the incoming digital signal to reach the DAC without this additional processing stage.
The preferred setting may depend on the recording and personal taste, so it is worth comparing both modes rather than assuming one will always sound better.
Five Selectable Digital Filters
Five DAC reconstruction filters allow the listener to make subtle changes to the way the converter handles frequencies close to the upper limit of the digital signal.
- Linear Phase Fast Roll-Off
- Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off
- Minimum Phase Fast Roll-Off
- Minimum Phase Slow Roll-Off
- Hybrid Fast Roll-Off
Linear Phase Slow Roll-Off is selected as the factory default.
Differences between filters may be subtle and can vary according to the recording, speakers and listening room.
Adjustable DPLL
The Digital Phase Lock Loop setting alters the DAC’s tolerance of incoming S/PDIF jitter.
Normal is the recommended setting for most correctly functioning digital sources.
Wide can be selected if the amplifier has difficulty locking to a source with unusually high jitter, although the wider setting should not normally be required.
HDMI ARC for Television Sound
The HDMI ARC input allows audio from a compatible television to reach the amplifier through one HDMI cable.
With HDMI-CEC enabled, the television remote can also control the amplifier’s volume during ARC playback.
This provides a simple way to improve films, programmes, games and television-based music services through a pair of proper Hi-Fi speakers.
Set the Television to PCM Stereo
The television must support HDMI ARC and HDMI-CEC, with both functions enabled.
Set its digital audio output to PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel. The 7000A is a stereo amplifier and does not decode Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos or DTS multichannel soundtracks.
Use an HDMI cable rated to HDMI 1.4 or later.
ARC Rather Than eARC
The 7000A uses HDMI ARC rather than HDMI eARC.
It is intended for two-channel television audio and convenient volume control, not lossless multichannel soundtrack formats.
A full surround system requires a suitable home cinema amplifier or processor.
Bluetooth 5.1
Bluetooth 5.1 provides convenient wireless playback from compatible smartphones, tablets and computers.
The latest Audiolab manual lists support for aptX, aptX HD and aptX Low Latency.
Actual codec selection depends on the transmitting device. Products without aptX support can still connect using another mutually supported Bluetooth format.
Bluetooth Is Not Network Streaming
The 7000A includes a Bluetooth receiver but does not contain Wi-Fi, Ethernet or an integrated network-streaming platform.
For app-based streaming services, internet radio, network libraries or multi-room playback, connect a separate music streamer such as the Audiolab 7000N Play.
The streamer can connect through analogue, optical or coaxial outputs, depending on whether its internal DAC or the 7000A’s DAC is preferred.
Three Analogue Line Inputs
AUX 1, AUX 2 and AUX 3 provide three conventional stereo RCA inputs.
They can accommodate suitable line-level sources including:
- CD players
- Music streamers
- Radio tuners
- Cassette decks
- External DACs
- Phono stages
- Other compatible analogue sources
Each analogue input can be adjusted by up to 6dB in either direction, helping create a more consistent volume when switching between sources with different output levels.
Moving Magnet Phono Stage
The dedicated phono input is designed for turntables fitted with a Moving Magnet cartridge or another cartridge with a compatible output.
The current Audiolab manual specifies 54dB of gain, 47k-ohm input impedance and 100pF input capacitance.
A ground terminal is provided for turntables with a separate earth lead.
Moving Magnet Only
The built-in phono stage is not designed for a conventional low-output Moving Coil cartridge.
Use an appropriate external Moving Coil phono stage or step-up solution connected to one of the line inputs.
Dedicated Headphone Amplifier
A 6.3mm headphone socket is positioned on the front panel.
The dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier is designed for headphone impedances between 20 and 600 ohms.
Its high slew rate and gain bandwidth are intended to provide a more capable headphone output than the elementary circuits fitted to many integrated amplifiers.
Connecting headphones automatically deactivates the loudspeaker terminals.
2.8-Inch Colour Display
The front panel uses a 2.8-inch full-colour IPS display.
It can show:
- Selected input
- Volume level
- Digital sampling frequency
- Operating mode
- Menu settings
- Digital VU meters
- Analogue-style VU meters
Brightness, animation and display timeout can be adjusted through the menu, and the screen can be switched off where a darker listening environment is preferred.
Integrated Mode
Integrated Mode connects the internal preamplifier and power amplifier in the conventional way.
Selected sources pass through the volume-controlled preamplifier before reaching the internal Class AB output stage and connected speakers.
The preamplifier output remains active, allowing connection to an additional power amplifier, compatible powered subwoofer or another suitable product.
Pre Mode
Pre Mode disconnects the internal power-amplifier stage and allows the 7000A to operate as a standalone DAC and preamplifier.
The variable pre-out can then feed an external stereo power amplifier or a pair of monoblock amplifiers.
The loudspeaker terminals are disabled in this mode, while the headphone output remains available.
Pre-Power Mode
Pre-Power Mode separates the internal preamplifier and power-amplifier sections while leaving both available independently.
This allows an external processor to be placed between the pre-out and power-amplifier input.
It also allows the 7000A’s power stage to receive a volume-controlled front-channel signal from a compatible home cinema processor or AV amplifier.
Home Cinema Integration
Pre-Power Mode can incorporate the 7000A’s power amplifier into a home cinema system.
Configuration and volume management must be completed carefully to prevent unexpectedly high playback levels or accidental use of two volume controls.
Bi-Amplification
The preamplifier output remains active in Integrated Mode.
This allows an additional compatible power amplifier to be used for passive bi-amplification where the loudspeaker provides separate input terminals and its manufacturer supports this arrangement.
The additional power amplifier should provide compatible gain, phase and electrical performance.
Connecting a Powered Subwoofer
The 7000A does not include a dedicated filtered subwoofer output.
Its variable preamplifier output can feed a powered subwoofer with a suitable line-level input.
Crossover frequency, level and phase must be adjusted on the subwoofer itself.
The correct settings depend on the main speakers, room and listening position.
12V Trigger Input and Output
A 12V trigger input and output allow compatible equipment to move between standby and operation together.
The output can control products such as the matching 7000CDT and 7000N Play.
The input allows the 7000A to be controlled by a compatible source, preamplifier or automation system.
A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable is required and is not included.
7000N Play Volume Synchronisation
The USB Type A Update socket can also synchronise volume control with the Audiolab 7000N Play.
A USB Type A to Type B cable connects the 7000A Update port to the 7000N Play Control port.
With Volume Sync enabled, the DTS Play-Fi app can control the amplifier’s volume rather than using the streamer as an independent digital volume control.
Power-On Volume Limit
The menu includes a configurable power-on volume limit.
When leaving standby, the amplifier returns to the previous volume or the selected maximum power-on level, whichever is lower.
This helps prevent an unexpectedly loud signal at the beginning of a listening session.
Automatic Standby
Automatic standby can be set to 20 minutes, 60 minutes or Never.
The amplifier enters standby after the chosen period without activity.
Standby power consumption is below 0.5 watts.
Remote Control
An Audiolab system remote handset is included.
It provides control over:
- Standby
- Volume
- Muting
- Input selection
- Operating mode
- Menu navigation
- Display selection
- Compatible matching Audiolab products
The remote requires two AAA batteries, which the latest manual states are not included.
Installation and Ventilation
The 7000A should be installed on a strong, level and stable shelf.
Its ventilation openings must remain unobstructed and the amplifier should not be enclosed within furniture that prevents heat escaping.
Allow space around the top and sides, particularly when the amplifier is driving difficult speakers or operating at higher playback levels.
Do not stack another warm-running component directly on top.
Speaker Connections
One pair of gold-plated stereo loudspeaker terminals is provided.
Maintain correct polarity by connecting positive to positive and negative to negative at both the amplifier and speakers.
Use suitable speaker cable and check that no loose conductor strands can create a short circuit between the terminals.
Switch the amplifier off before connecting or disconnecting speakers.
Running In
The amplifier’s electronic components and the connected loudspeakers may settle slightly during their initial use.
No special running-in signal is required. Play varied music at sensible listening levels and allow the system to develop naturally.
Speaker positioning and amplifier matching will normally have a much greater influence on performance than an exact number of running-in hours.
7000A or 6000A MKII?
The 6000A MKII delivers 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms and includes HDMI ARC, Bluetooth, an MM phono stage and an ES9038Q2M DAC.
The 7000A increases output to 70 watts per channel, adds USB Type B computer audio, high-resolution PCM and DSD support, a colour display, digital upsampling and more extensive menu adjustment.
The 6000A MKII remains an excellent option for a more compact or affordable system, while the 7000A provides greater power, digital flexibility and upgrade potential.
7000A or 9000A?
The 9000A increases power to 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms and uses the flagship ES9038PRO DAC.
It also adds balanced XLR analogue input connectivity, a larger display and a more substantial power supply.
The 7000A retains HDMI ARC, which is not included on the 9000A, and provides much of the flagship model’s digital flexibility at a lower price.
Finish Options
The Audiolab 7000A is available in:
Its dimensions and styling coordinate with the matching 7000CDT and 7000N Play.
Key Features
- Integrated stereo amplifier
- Discrete Class AB output stage
- 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms
- 110 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- 11-amp maximum output current
- Complementary Feedback amplifier topology
- 250VA toroidal transformer
- Four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors
- 60,000µF total reservoir capacity
- ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC
- Class A post-DAC active filter stage
- USB Type B computer audio input
- PCM support up to 32-bit/768kHz through USB
- DSD64, DSD128, DSD256 and DSD512 support
- Two coaxial digital inputs
- Two optical digital inputs
- S/PDIF sampling rates up to 192kHz
- Digital upsampling to 352.8kHz or 384kHz
- Five selectable DAC filters
- Adjustable DPLL
- Roon Tested
- HDMI ARC with compatible CEC volume control
- Bluetooth 5.1
- aptX, aptX HD and aptX Low Latency support
- Three stereo RCA line inputs
- Low-noise Moving Magnet phono stage
- Dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier
- 6.3mm headphone socket
- Integrated, Pre and Pre-Power operating modes
- Power-amplifier input
- Variable preamplifier output
- 12V trigger input and output
- 7000N Play volume synchronisation
- 2.8-inch full-colour IPS display
- Digital and analogue-style VU meters
- Configurable input sensitivity
- Configurable power-on volume limit
- Configurable automatic standby
- System remote control included
- Black or Silver finish
- Three-year extended warranty when registered within 90 days
Frequently Asked Questions
How powerful is the Audiolab 7000A?
It delivers 70 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 110 watts per channel into 4 ohms.
What is the maximum output current?
Audiolab’s current product page and latest manual specify a maximum output current of 11 amps.
What type of amplifier is it?
It uses a discrete Class AB power stage with Complementary Feedback topology.
Which DAC does it use?
Digital conversion is handled by an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC.
Does it support USB audio?
Yes. The USB Type B input accepts audio from a compatible Windows computer or Mac.
What is the maximum USB resolution?
USB supports PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512.
Does the USB Type A port play music from memory sticks?
No. It is used for firmware updates and volume synchronisation with the Audiolab 7000N Play.
Does it support Roon?
It is Roon Tested for compatible computer connection. It is not a networked Roon Ready endpoint on its own.
How many conventional digital inputs are provided?
There are two coaxial and two optical S/PDIF inputs.
What resolution do the optical and coaxial inputs support?
They accept PCM sampling frequencies from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
Does the 7000A have HDMI?
Yes. It includes one HDMI ARC input for a compatible television.
Does it support HDMI eARC?
No. The connection is HDMI ARC rather than eARC.
Can the television remote control the amplifier’s volume?
Yes, where the television supports HDMI-CEC and ARC and both functions are configured correctly.
Which television audio format should be selected?
Set the television to PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel. The amplifier does not decode multichannel Dolby or DTS signals.
Does it include Bluetooth?
Yes. The latest manual specifies Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, aptX HD and aptX Low Latency.
Does it include Wi-Fi or network streaming?
No. Connect a separate music streamer for app-based services, internet radio, network libraries or multi-room playback.
How many analogue line inputs are provided?
There are three stereo RCA line inputs.
Can the analogue input levels be adjusted?
Yes. Each analogue input can be adjusted by up to 6dB in either direction to help match source volumes.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. It includes a dedicated Moving Magnet phono input with a turntable ground connection.
Can a low-output Moving Coil cartridge connect directly?
No. Use a compatible external Moving Coil phono stage or step-up solution connected to a line input.
Does it have a headphone output?
Yes. A dedicated current-feedback headphone amplifier feeds the front-panel 6.3mm socket.
Which headphone impedances are supported?
Audiolab specifies a load range of 20–600 ohms.
Do the speakers continue playing when headphones are connected?
No. Connecting headphones deactivates the loudspeaker terminals.
Can the 7000A be used as a preamplifier?
Yes. Pre Mode disables the internal power stage and sends the selected source through the variable preamplifier output.
Can it be used as a power amplifier?
Yes. Pre-Power Mode allows an external preamplifier or compatible AV processor to feed its power-amplifier input.
Can it be integrated into a home cinema system?
Yes. HDMI ARC provides stereo television sound, while Pre-Power Mode can incorporate its power stage into a suitable AV system.
Can I connect a powered subwoofer?
Yes. A suitable powered subwoofer can connect to the variable preamplifier output. Crossover and phase adjustment remain on the subwoofer.
Does it have a dedicated subwoofer output?
No. The preamplifier output is full range rather than a filtered subwoofer connection.
Can the amplifier be used for bi-amplification?
Yes. The pre-out remains active in Integrated Mode and can feed a compatible additional power amplifier.
How many pairs of speakers can be connected?
One pair. The amplifier provides one set of stereo loudspeaker terminals.
Does it have 12V triggers?
Yes. One trigger input and one trigger output are provided. The required 3.5mm cable is sold separately.
Can the 7000N Play control its volume?
Yes. Connect the 7000A Update port to the 7000N Play Control port and enable Volume Sync.
Does the display show VU meters?
Yes. The display can show digital or analogue-style VU meters, alongside conventional input and volume information.
Does the amplifier require ventilation?
Yes. Install it on a strong open shelf, keep all ventilation openings clear and avoid stacking warm-running equipment directly above it.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 444mm wide, 340mm deep and 78mm high.
How much does it weigh?
The net weight is approximately 8.4kg.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. The system remote handset is supplied, although the latest manual states that its two AAA batteries are not included.
Which finishes are available?
The Audiolab 7000A is available in Black and Silver.
What warranty is included?
Audiolab offers an extended three-year warranty when the product is registered online within 90 days of purchase. Without registration, the warranty is one year or the applicable statutory period, whichever is longer.
Related Audiolab Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Audiolab amplifier demonstrations
- Speaker and amplifier matching advice
- Turntable and Moving Magnet cartridge guidance
- CD transport and music-streamer setup
- Computer USB audio and driver support
- HDMI ARC and television configuration assistance
- Bluetooth pairing guidance
- Headphone matching advice
- Subwoofer and preamplifier-output setup
- Home cinema integration advice
- Warranty-registration support
- Ongoing after-sales assistance
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss building a system around the Audiolab 7000A.