Audio T Verdict
The Advance Paris MyConnect 250 places a genuinely powerful hybrid amplifier, high-resolution network player, CD player, DAB/FM radio and flexible DAC inside one substantial component.
Its dual-mono Class A/B output stage delivers 190W per channel into 8 ohms, while two valves handle preamplification. MM and MC phono, balanced XLR, HDMI ARC, USB audio and three speaker zones make it considerably more versatile than most conventional all-in-one systems.
It is an ideal choice for anyone who wants a serious Hi-Fi system with fewer separate boxes, but without sacrificing amplifier power, physical source playback or future expansion.
Advance Paris MyConnect 250 All-in-One Music System
The Advance Paris MyConnect 250 combines the principal components of a full Hi-Fi system within one full-width enclosure.
It incorporates a powerful stereo integrated amplifier, valve preamplifier stage, CD player, network streamer, FM and DAB+ tuner, digital-to-analogue converter and configurable MM and MC phono stage.
Simply add a suitable pair of passive loudspeakers to create a complete system, with the option to connect additional analogue sources, digital equipment, a television, active subwoofers or external power amplification.
A Serious All-in-One Hi-Fi System
Many all-in-one music systems focus on compact dimensions and convenience at the expense of amplifier power and system flexibility.
The MyConnect 250 takes a different approach. It has a standard 430mm Hi-Fi footprint, weighs 19kg and uses a high-power dual-mono amplifier architecture with two toroidal transformers.
This makes it suitable for listeners who want to reduce the number of separate components without reducing the ambition of the complete system.
Hybrid Valve and Transistor Amplification
The MyConnect 250 uses valves and transistors for different stages of the amplification process.
Its valve preamplifier stage processes the selected source before passing the signal to the Class A/B transistor power amplifier.
This hybrid arrangement combines valve-based preamplification with the current delivery, power and loudspeaker control of a solid-state output stage.
Dual-Mono Power Supply
Two 300VA toroidal transformers are used within the amplifier section.
Each power-amplifier channel has its own transformer, creating a dual-mono arrangement intended to maintain strong channel separation and stable power delivery.
The substantial power supply helps the MyConnect 250 respond to demanding musical passages and control a wide range of compatible loudspeakers.
190W Per Channel
The MyConnect 250 delivers 190W RMS per channel into an 8-ohm load.
Power increases to 280W RMS per channel into 4 ohms, giving the amplifier enough output for a broad range of standmount and floorstanding loudspeakers.
The final suitability of any amplifier and speaker combination will still depend on loudspeaker sensitivity, impedance behaviour, room size, listening distance and preferred volume.
Arrange a Loudspeaker Demonstration
Power figures alone cannot show how an amplifier and loudspeaker will behave together.
An Audio T demonstration can establish whether the MyConnect 250 provides the control, tonal balance, scale and listening level required by your chosen speakers.
Class A/B with High-Bias Mode
The main output stage operates in Class A/B and includes a selectable High-Bias mode.
When High-Bias is enabled, the amplifier operates in a manner comparable with Class A over its first few watts before moving into Class A/B as greater output is required.
High-Bias operation increases heat generation, so clear ventilation around the amplifier is essential.
PCM1796 Digital-to-Analogue Converter
A Texas Instruments PCM1796 DAC processes signals received through the compatible digital, USB, network and HDMI connections.
This allows numerous digital sources to connect directly without requiring a separate external DAC.
The MyConnect 250 can therefore function as the central digital hub for a system containing a computer, CD transport, television, network storage and other compatible equipment.
Integrated CD Player
A front-loading CD player is built into the centre of the MyConnect 250.
Front-panel controls provide access to play, pause, stop, track selection and disc ejection, while the supplied remote control provides additional operating functions.
The integrated drive is designed for conventional Compact Disc playback. SACD playback is not specified.
Built-In Network Streaming
The MyConnect 250 contains a network audio player with both Ethernet and Wi-Fi connectivity.
A wired Ethernet connection is recommended where practical because it can provide a particularly stable connection to the home router. The supplied Wi-Fi antenna allows wireless installation where running a network cable is impractical.
The network player can access compatible streaming services, music stored on local network devices and shared music libraries.
Advance PlayStream App
The Advance PlayStream app is available for compatible iOS and Android devices.
It provides control over the MyConnect 250 network player, including music selection, playback, playlists, favourites, volume and device settings.
The app can also support compatible multiroom playback with other suitable Advance PlayStream products on the same network.
Streaming Services
Advance Paris lists support through the PlayStream platform for services including Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer and internet radio.
Spotify Connect allows the MyConnect 250 to be selected as the playback device from within the Spotify app.
Streaming-service availability, app support and subscription requirements can change over time. Confirm that a particular service remains available before purchasing if it is essential to the system.
Subscriptions May Be Required
Many streaming services require a separate paid subscription and are not included with the MyConnect 250.
Available features, maximum streaming quality and account requirements are determined by the individual service provider.
AirPlay Playback
The MyConnect 250 operating guide documents AirPlay playback from compatible Apple devices and computers connected to the same network.
Select the MyConnect 250 as the available AirPlay destination from the Apple device before beginning playback.
AirPlay features can depend on the device, operating system, network configuration and installed MyConnect firmware.
Music Stored on a Home Network
The network player can access compatible music shared from a computer or network-attached storage device.
The server or shared folder must be visible on the same local network and configured to permit compatible media playback.
Library navigation and playback are handled through the Advance PlayStream app or suitable compatible control software.
USB-A Music Playback
A USB-A connection allows music to be played from a compatible USB memory device.
Published file support includes:
File compatibility can depend on the drive format, file properties and installed firmware.
FM and DAB+ Radio
The built-in tuner provides access to conventional FM radio and compatible DAB or DAB+ digital broadcasts.
An antenna connection is provided, and reception quality will depend on the local signal strength, building construction and antenna position.
Station scanning and presets can be controlled through the front panel and supplied remote.
Moving-Magnet and Moving-Coil Phono Stage
The built-in RIAA phono stage supports several cartridge types:
- Moving magnet
- High-output moving coil
- Low-output moving coil
This allows many turntables to connect directly without requiring a separate external phono stage.
A grounding terminal is provided for turntables fitted with a separate earth lead.
Adjustable Phono Capacitance
The phono input provides three selectable capacitance settings:
Capacitance adjustment can help match the phono input more closely to the recommended loading range of a moving-magnet cartridge.
Check the Cartridge Setting Before Use
Select the appropriate MM, MC High or MC Low setting before playing a record.
An incorrect setting may produce an excessively quiet or loud signal and may not provide suitable loading for the cartridge.
Five RCA Line Inputs
Five stereo RCA line inputs are provided for conventional analogue source equipment.
These can be used with compatible products such as:
- CD and SACD players
- Network streamers
- External DACs
- Cassette decks
- Radio tuners
- Separate phono stages
Each connected source must provide a normal line-level analogue output.
Two Balanced XLR Inputs
Two stereo balanced XLR inputs allow compatible source equipment to connect using balanced analogue interconnects.
Balanced connections can provide improved rejection of external interference, particularly where longer interconnects are required.
XLR is not automatically superior to RCA in every system. The final result depends on the circuit design of both connected components.
Three Optical Digital Inputs
Three optical Toslink inputs allow compatible digital equipment to use the internal PCM1796 DAC.
The optical inputs support compatible PCM signals up to 24-bit/96kHz.
Optical connections are commonly found on televisions, games consoles, CD players and network streamers.
Three Coaxial Digital Inputs
Three coaxial S/PDIF inputs are provided for compatible digital source equipment.
The coaxial inputs support compatible PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Use a purpose-designed 75-ohm digital coaxial cable rather than one half of a conventional stereo analogue RCA interconnect.
AES/EBU Digital Input
An AES/EBU digital input allows compatible source equipment to use the MyConnect 250’s internal DAC.
AES/EBU normally uses a three-pin XLR connector, but it carries a digital signal and must not be confused with either of the two analogue XLR inputs.
Use a suitable 110-ohm AES/EBU digital cable between compatible components.
USB-B Computer Audio
The USB-B input allows a compatible Windows computer or Mac to use the MyConnect 250 as an external audio device.
Published USB support includes PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz, together with DSD64 and DSD128 using DoP.
Some Windows computers may require the appropriate Advance Paris or USB audio driver before connection. Driver requirements depend on the operating system version.
HDMI ARC for Television Sound
An HDMI ARC connection allows the MyConnect 250 to receive stereo audio from a compatible television.
HDMI CEC can be enabled through the system menu, allowing compatible equipment to coordinate functions such as power and volume.
The television may need to be configured to output stereo PCM rather than a multichannel or bitstream format.
ARC, Not eARC
The MyConnect 250 uses HDMI ARC rather than the newer HDMI eARC connection.
Connect it to the television socket specifically labelled ARC and enable ARC and CEC within the television settings.
Separate HDMI Audio Input
A second HDMI connection accepts audio from a compatible source fitted with an HDMI output.
This can be useful with a Blu-ray player, media player or other suitable video source.
The MyConnect 250 is a stereo music system rather than a multichannel AV receiver, so the connected source should be configured to provide compatible two-channel audio.
Optional Bluetooth
Bluetooth is not built into the standard MyConnect 250.
Wireless Bluetooth playback requires one of the separately available Advance Paris receiver modules:
- X-FTB01 with aptX
- X-FTB02 with AAC, aptX, aptX Low Latency, aptX HD and SBC
The selected receiver plugs directly into the dedicated Bluetooth port on the rear panel.
RCA and XLR Preamplifier Outputs
The MyConnect 250 provides variable preamplifier outputs through both RCA and balanced XLR connections.
These outputs can feed a compatible external power amplifier while the MyConnect continues to provide source selection, streaming, DAC conversion, valve preamplification and volume control.
The balanced XLR output may be particularly useful where the external power amplifier has balanced inputs or a longer cable route is required.
Separable Preamplifier and Power-Amplifier Sections
During normal integrated operation, the PRE-OUT and AMP-IN connections are joined by removable links.
Removing the links allows the preamplifier and power-amplifier sections to be used independently.
Always switch the equipment off before removing or replacing these links.
AMP-IN and Home Cinema Integration
The stereo RCA AMP-IN provides direct access to the MyConnect 250’s power-amplifier section.
It can be used with a compatible external preamplifier or an AV receiver fitted with front-left and front-right preamplifier outputs.
This allows the same main loudspeakers to be used for dedicated stereo listening and multichannel home cinema.
When AMP-IN is active, volume must be controlled by the connected preamplifier or AV processor.
Fixed Record Output
A fixed-level REC-OUT connection can feed a compatible cassette deck, recorder or other recording device.
The signal does not follow the main volume control.
REC-OUT must not be connected directly to a power amplifier because it does not provide variable volume adjustment.
Two Subwoofer Outputs
Two RCA outputs allow one or two compatible active subwoofers to be connected.
A rear-panel selector provides two crossover options:
The 75Hz setting will generally suit a larger subwoofer with good low-frequency extension, while 150Hz may suit a smaller model operating over a wider bass range.
Final crossover, gain, phase and positioning should be confirmed through careful setup and listening.
Three Speaker Zones
The MyConnect 250 provides three sets of loudspeaker terminals, identified as Speaker A, Speaker B and Speaker C.
The system menu allows individual zones or suitable combinations of zones to be selected.
This can support alternative loudspeaker pairs or music in additional rooms, subject to cable routing and impedance compatibility.
Observe the Speaker-Impedance Requirements
When using one speaker pair, Advance Paris specifies an impedance of 4 ohms or higher.
When operating two pairs simultaneously, each pair must be rated at 6 ohms or higher. When all three pairs are used together, each pair must be rated at 8 ohms or higher.
Speaker-Cable Connections
The loudspeaker terminals accept properly prepared bare cable, compatible spade connectors and 4mm banana plugs.
Maintain correct polarity by connecting positive to positive and negative to negative for every channel and speaker zone.
Switch the MyConnect 250 off before connecting or disconnecting loudspeaker cables and ensure that no loose conductor strands can bridge adjacent terminals.
Two Headphone Outputs
Two front-panel headphone connections allow compatible wired headphones to be connected.
The gain and output impedance can be adjusted independently for each headphone output.
A 0-ohm setting is provided for many low-impedance headphones, while a 100-ohm setting can be selected for suitable medium or high-impedance models.
Reduce the volume before inserting or removing headphones and begin listening at a low level.
Two 12V Trigger Outputs
Two 12V trigger outputs allow compatible external components to switch on and off with the MyConnect 250.
This can be useful when the preamplifier outputs are connected to additional power amplifiers or other suitable equipment.
Trigger sockets carry control voltage rather than audio and require suitable mono mini-jack trigger cables.
Tone, Balance and Loudness Controls
The system menu provides bass, treble, stereo balance and loudness adjustment.
These settings can help compensate for room acoustics, loudspeaker positioning, recording balance or low-volume listening.
A bypass setting removes the tone adjustments from the signal path when they are not required.
Automatic Standby
An automatic power-down function can place the unit into standby after an extended period without operation.
The feature can be adjusted or disabled through the system settings where required.
Illuminated VU Meters
Two illuminated VU meters dominate the gloss-black front panel and provide a visual indication of amplifier activity.
The preamplifier valves are visible through the central window above the CD tray.
Together, these details give the MyConnect 250 the distinctive neo-retro appearance associated with Advance Paris.
Installation and Ventilation
The MyConnect 250 measures 430mm wide, 195mm high and 455mm deep, with a net weight of 19kg.
It requires a strong, level Hi-Fi rack with enough depth for the unit and its extensive rear-panel connections.
Keep all ventilation openings clear, particularly when High-Bias mode is enabled. Do not place the system in a sealed cabinet or directly beneath equipment that blocks rising warm air.
Allow additional rear clearance for the Wi-Fi antenna, radio antenna, mains lead, HDMI cables, interconnects and loudspeaker cables.
Key Features
- High-power all-in-one Hi-Fi music system
- Hybrid valve and transistor amplifier design
- Valve preamplifier stage
- Class A/B transistor power amplification
- Selectable High-Bias mode
- 190W RMS per channel into 8 ohms
- 280W RMS per channel into 4 ohms
- Dual-mono amplifier construction
- Two 300VA toroidal transformers
- Built-in front-loading CD player
- Built-in FM and DAB+ radio tuner
- Ethernet and Wi-Fi network streaming
- Advance PlayStream app control
- Spotify Connect
- Compatible streaming-service integration
- Internet radio
- Compatible multiroom playback
- Network music-library playback
- AirPlay support documented for compatible devices
- USB-A music-file playback
- MP3, WAV, FLAC, ALAC and AAC USB file support
- Texas Instruments PCM1796 DAC
- Five stereo RCA line inputs
- Two stereo balanced XLR inputs
- MM, MC High and MC Low phono settings
- Selectable 100pF, 200pF and 320pF phono capacitance
- Three optical digital inputs
- Three coaxial digital inputs
- One AES/EBU digital input
- USB-B computer audio input
- PCM support up to 24-bit/192kHz through compatible inputs
- DSD64 and DSD128 support through USB-B
- HDMI ARC television connection
- Separate HDMI audio input
- Optional X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 Bluetooth receiver
- RCA and balanced XLR preamplifier outputs
- Separable preamplifier and power-amplifier sections
- Stereo RCA AMP-IN
- Fixed-level REC-OUT
- Two active-subwoofer outputs
- Selectable 75Hz or 150Hz subwoofer crossover
- Three selectable speaker zones
- Two independently adjustable headphone outputs
- Two 12V trigger outputs
- Bass, treble, balance and loudness adjustment
- Tone-control bypass
- Dual illuminated VU meters
- Remote control included
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Advance Paris MyConnect 250?
It is an all-in-one Hi-Fi system containing a stereo amplifier, valve preamplifier, network streamer, CD player, DAC, DAB/FM tuner and MM/MC phono stage.
How powerful is it?
It delivers 190W RMS per channel into 8 ohms and 280W RMS per channel into 4 ohms.
Is it a valve amplifier?
It is a hybrid design. Valves are used within the preamplifier stage, while transistors provide the main Class A/B power amplification.
What does High-Bias mode do?
It allows the amplifier to operate in a manner comparable with Class A over its first few watts before transitioning into Class A/B as more power is required.
Does it include a CD player?
Yes. A front-loading CD player is built into the unit.
Does it play SACDs?
SACD compatibility is not specified. The built-in drive should be treated as a conventional Compact Disc player.
Does it have built-in music streaming?
Yes. It connects through Ethernet or Wi-Fi and is controlled through the Advance PlayStream app or supported services such as Spotify Connect.
Which streaming services are available?
Advance Paris lists services including Qobuz, TIDAL, Deezer, Spotify Connect and internet radio. Availability and subscription requirements can change.
Can it play music stored on a NAS drive?
Yes, provided the music library is shared using a compatible network-media system and is visible to the MyConnect 250.
Does it support AirPlay?
AirPlay operation from compatible Apple devices is documented in the MyConnect 250 operating guide.
Does it have DAB+ and FM radio?
Yes. Both DAB/DAB+ digital radio and FM radio tuners are built in.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. It supports moving-magnet, high-output moving-coil and low-output moving-coil cartridges.
Can the phono capacitance be adjusted?
Yes. The available settings are 100pF, 200pF and 320pF.
What DAC does it use?
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by a Texas Instruments PCM1796 DAC.
How many analogue inputs does it have?
It has five stereo RCA line inputs, two stereo balanced XLR inputs and a separate configurable MM/MC phono input.
How many conventional digital inputs does it have?
It has three optical inputs, three coaxial inputs and one AES/EBU input, plus USB-B and HDMI connections.
Can I connect a computer?
Yes. The USB-B input supports compatible PCM audio up to 24-bit/192kHz together with DSD64 and DSD128 using DoP.
Can it connect directly to a television?
Yes. It includes HDMI ARC and a separate HDMI audio input.
Does it have HDMI eARC?
No. The MyConnect 250 uses HDMI ARC rather than the newer eARC format.
Does it have Bluetooth built in?
No. Bluetooth requires the separately available Advance Paris X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 receiver.
Can it be used with an external power amplifier?
Yes. It provides variable RCA and balanced XLR preamplifier outputs.
Can it be used in a home cinema system?
Yes. AMP-IN allows a compatible AV receiver or processor to access the MyConnect 250’s power-amplifier section for the main front loudspeakers.
How many subwoofers can be connected?
One or two active subwoofers can be connected through the two RCA subwoofer outputs.
Can the subwoofer crossover be adjusted?
Yes. A rear-panel switch provides 75Hz and 150Hz crossover settings.
How many pairs of loudspeakers can it power?
It provides three selectable speaker zones. Observe the specified impedance requirements when operating more than one pair simultaneously.
What speaker impedance is required?
Use speakers rated at 4 ohms or higher for one pair, 6 ohms or higher per pair when using two zones, and 8 ohms or higher per pair when operating all three zones together.
Does it have headphone outputs?
Yes. Two headphone outputs are provided, with independent gain and output-impedance settings.
How large and heavy is it?
It measures 430mm wide, 195mm high and 455mm deep, with a published net weight of 19kg.
Related Advance Paris Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Independent advice from experienced Hi-Fi specialists
- MyConnect 250 and loudspeaker system matching
- In-store demonstrations at participating branches
- Home network and streaming setup guidance
- Turntable and cartridge compatibility advice
- Television and HDMI ARC setup support
- Subwoofer selection and integration advice
- Multi-zone speaker impedance guidance
- Speaker-cable and interconnect recommendations
- Click and Reserve from participating stores
- Nationwide UK delivery on eligible products
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss matching the Advance Paris MyConnect 250 with your loudspeakers, turntable, television and home network.