Audio T Verdict
The Audiolab 6000A MKII is an exceptionally well-equipped integrated amplifier, combining confident Class AB power with the connections needed by a modern music and television system.
Its revised power supply, ES9038Q2M DAC and Class A post-DAC filter stage deliver a clean, composed and detailed presentation. There is enough current for a broad selection of standmount and floorstanding speakers, although careful system matching remains important.
HDMI ARC, Bluetooth aptX HD, a Moving Magnet phono stage, dedicated headphone amplifier and flexible preamplifier and power-amplifier modes make it an excellent foundation for a compact but highly capable Hi-Fi system.
Audiolab 6000A MKII Integrated Amplifier
The 6000A MKII builds upon one of Audiolab’s most successful integrated amplifiers, retaining its clean design and approachable size while improving the power supply, digital conversion and connectivity.
It delivers 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 75 watts per channel into 4 ohms from a discrete Class AB output stage.
Three analogue line inputs, a Moving Magnet phono stage, four S/PDIF digital inputs, HDMI ARC and Bluetooth provide connections for turntables, CD transports, streamers, televisions, games consoles and mobile devices.
Discrete Class AB Amplification
The 6000A MKII retains a traditional Class AB power-amplifier design rather than adopting a compact Class D module.
Its Complementary Feedback topology is designed to provide good linearity and thermal stability, helping the amplifier maintain consistent performance as the output stage reaches its normal operating temperature.
Rated power is 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, rising to 75 watts per channel into 4 ohms, with a maximum published output current of 11 amps.
Revised Power Supply
The MKII introduces an updated transformer and power-supply implementation.
Audiolab has increased the voltage available from the transformer’s secondary windings and reduced power-supply impedance to improve control and dynamic performance.
The 200VA toroidal transformer is partnered with four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors, providing 60,000µF of total reservoir capacity across the power-amplifier supply.
This substantial supply helps the amplifier respond to short musical peaks while maintaining control over the connected loudspeakers.
Speaker Matching
The 6000A MKII can partner a wide selection of modern passive speakers, but power output alone does not determine whether a combination will work well.
Consider:
- The speaker’s sensitivity
- Its nominal and minimum impedance
- The room size
- The listening distance
- The preferred playback level
- The amount of low-frequency control required
Its 75-watt output into 4 ohms and 11-amp peak current delivery provide useful capability with moderately demanding speakers, but a demonstration remains worthwhile where the loudspeaker has low sensitivity or a difficult impedance curve.
Avoid Amplifier Clipping
A lower-powered amplifier driven beyond its clean operating range can damage loudspeakers 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, replacing the ES9018-based design used in the original 6000A.
The converter incorporates ESS HyperStream II architecture and Time Domain Jitter Eliminator technology, helping Audiolab achieve low noise and strong dynamic performance.
The MKII also uses a Class A circuit within the post-DAC active filter stage, drawing upon work completed for the higher-level Audiolab 7000A.
Input Resolution Versus DAC Capability
The ES9038Q2M chipset is technically capable of processing PCM data up to 32-bit/768kHz.
However, the 6000A MKII’s optical and coaxial digital inputs accept sampling rates only from 44.1kHz to 192kHz. The amplifier does not provide a USB audio input for 768kHz files.
Five Selectable Digital Filters
The 6000A MKII provides five digital-filter options for its internal DAC.
- 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.
The filters alter the way the DAC handles frequencies near the upper limit of the digital signal. Differences can be subtle and may depend on the recording, source and connected speakers.
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 without suitable HDMI ARC operation
- Games consoles
- Blu-ray and DVD players
- Digital radio tuners
- Compatible set-top boxes
Optical and coaxial inputs support sampling rates from 44.1kHz to 192kHz.
HDMI ARC for Television Sound
The 6000A MKII adds an HDMI ARC input, allowing audio from a compatible television to reach the amplifier through one HDMI cable.
With HDMI-CEC configured correctly, the television remote can also control the amplifier’s volume during ARC playback.
This makes it possible to improve television, film and games-console sound through a conventional pair of Hi-Fi speakers without installing a multichannel AV receiver.
Set the Television to PCM Stereo
The television must support both HDMI ARC and HDMI-CEC, with these functions enabled in its settings.
Set the television’s digital audio output to PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel. The 6000A MKII is a stereo amplifier and does not decode Dolby Digital or DTS multichannel signals.
Use an HDMI cable rated to HDMI 1.4 or later.
ARC, Not eARC
The connection is HDMI ARC rather than HDMI eARC.
It is intended for two-channel PCM television audio and convenient volume control, not lossless multichannel soundtrack formats.
Owners building a full surround-sound system should use a suitable home cinema amplifier or processor instead.
Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD
Bluetooth 5.1 provides convenient wireless playback from compatible smartphones, tablets and computers.
The amplifier supports aptX and aptX HD, allowing compatible transmitting devices to send higher-quality audio than a basic Bluetooth connection.
Actual codec selection depends on the source device. Products without aptX HD support can still connect using a mutually supported Bluetooth format.
Bluetooth Is Not Network Streaming
The 6000A MKII contains a Bluetooth receiver but does not include Wi-Fi, Ethernet or an integrated network-streaming platform.
For internet radio, app-based streaming, network libraries or multi-room playback, connect a separate music streamer such as the Audiolab 7000N Play through an analogue, optical or coaxial input.
Three Analogue Line Inputs
AUX 1, AUX 2 and AUX 3 provide three conventional stereo RCA inputs.
These can accommodate products such as:
- CD players
- Music streamers
- Radio tuners
- Cassette decks
- External DACs
- Phono stages
- Other suitable line-level sources
Do not connect a turntable directly to a line input unless the turntable or an external phono stage provides a suitable line-level output.
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 circuit provides 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 a suitable external Moving Coil phono stage or step-up solution connected to one of the amplifier’s 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 loads between 20 and 600 ohms, covering a broad selection of conventional wired headphones.
Connecting headphones automatically mutes the loudspeaker output.
Headphones with a 3.5mm plug require a suitable 6.3mm adaptor.
Integrated Mode
Integrated Mode connects the internal preamplifier and power amplifier in the conventional way.
All selected sources pass through the volume-controlled preamplifier before reaching the internal Class AB power stage and connected speakers.
The preamplifier output remains active, allowing connection to a powered subwoofer, additional power amplifier or another compatible product.
Pre Mode
Pre Mode disconnects the internal power-amplifier stage and allows the 6000A MKII to function as a standalone preamplifier.
The pre-out can then feed an external stereo power amplifier or a pair of monoblock amplifiers.
In this mode, the 6000A MKII’s loudspeaker terminals are disabled.
Pre-Power Mode
Pre-Power Mode separates the internal preamplifier and power-amplifier stages while keeping both available independently.
This allows an external processor to be inserted between the pre-out and power-amplifier input.
It also allows the internal power amplifier to receive a signal from a compatible AV processor, surround amplifier or separate preamplifier.
Home Cinema Power-Amplifier Use
Pre-Power Mode can integrate the 6000A MKII’s power stage into a home cinema system where the AV processor provides the volume-controlled front-channel signal.
System configuration and volume management must be completed carefully to prevent unexpectedly high playback levels.
Connecting a Powered Subwoofer
The amplifier does not provide a dedicated filtered subwoofer output.
However, 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 ideal settings depend on the main speakers, room and listening position.
Bi-Amplification
In Integrated Mode, the pre-out remains active alongside the internal speaker output.
This allows an additional compatible power amplifier to be used for passive bi-amplification where the loudspeakers provide separate input terminals and their manufacturer supports this arrangement.
Both amplifier channels should provide compatible gain and polarity.
12V Trigger Input and Output
A 12V trigger input and output allow compatible equipment to switch between standby and operation together.
The trigger output can control another Audiolab component or compatible third-party product.
The trigger input allows the 6000A MKII to respond to a compatible source, preamplifier or control system.
A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable is required and is not included.
USB Update Socket
The rear USB socket is provided solely for installing official Audiolab firmware updates from a suitable USB storage device.
It is not a USB audio input and cannot be used for direct music playback from a computer, phone or USB memory drive.
Remote Control
A system remote control and two AAA batteries are included.
The handset controls standby, volume, muting, source selection, operating mode, display, menu settings and compatible Bluetooth playback functions.
It can also operate selected functions on a matching Audiolab 6000CDT.
Power-On Volume Limit
The menu includes a configurable power-on volume limit.
When the amplifier leaves standby, it 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.
Auto Standby
The amplifier enters standby automatically after a period without activity.
The default period is 20 minutes, with menu options for one hour or Never.
Standby power consumption is below 0.5 watts.
Installation and Ventilation
The 6000A MKII becomes warm during normal operation and requires unrestricted ventilation.
Place it on a strong, level shelf with open space around its ventilation openings.
Audiolab recommends giving the amplifier its own shelf when it is installed in an equipment rack.
Do not place it inside a closed cabinet, cover its ventilation slots or stack another warm-running component directly on top.
Speaker Connections
One pair of stereo loudspeaker terminals is provided.
Maintain correct polarity by connecting the amplifier’s positive terminal to the corresponding positive speaker terminal and negative to negative.
Use suitable speaker cable and check that no loose strands can create a short circuit between the terminals.
Switch the amplifier off before connecting or disconnecting loudspeakers.
Finish Options
The Audiolab 6000A MKII is available in:
Its dimensions and styling coordinate with other Audiolab 6000 Series components.
Key Features
- Integrated stereo amplifier
- Discrete Class AB power stage
- 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms
- 75 watts per channel into 4 ohms
- 11-amp maximum output current
- Complementary Feedback amplifier topology
- 200VA toroidal transformer
- Four 15,000µF reservoir capacitors
- ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC
- Class A post-DAC active filter stage
- Five selectable digital filters
- Two coaxial digital inputs
- Two optical digital inputs
- Digital input sampling rates up to 192kHz
- HDMI ARC with CEC volume control
- Bluetooth 5.1
- aptX and aptX HD 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
- Configurable power-on volume limit
- Configurable auto 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 6000A MKII?
It delivers 50 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 75 watts per channel into 4 ohms, with a maximum published current output of 11 amps.
What type of amplifier is it?
It uses a discrete Class AB power-amplifier stage with Audiolab’s Complementary Feedback topology.
Which DAC does it use?
Digital conversion is handled by an ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC.
Can it play 32-bit/768kHz files?
The DAC chipset is technically capable of 32-bit/768kHz processing, but the amplifier’s optical and coaxial inputs accept sampling rates only up to 192kHz.
Does it have USB audio?
No. The rear USB connection is for firmware updates and does not accept audio from a computer, phone or USB drive.
Does it have HDMI?
Yes. It includes one HDMI ARC input for compatible televisions.
Does it support HDMI eARC?
No. The connection is HDMI ARC rather than eARC.
Can the television remote control its volume?
Yes, where the television supports HDMI-CEC and ARC and both functions have been enabled correctly.
Which television audio format should I select?
Set the television to PCM Stereo or PCM 2-channel. The amplifier does not decode multichannel Dolby Digital or DTS soundtracks.
Does the amplifier include Bluetooth?
Yes. It uses Bluetooth 5.1 and supports aptX and aptX HD.
Does it have Wi-Fi or built-in music streaming?
No. Connect a separate network music streamer for Wi-Fi, internet radio, app-based services or multi-room playback.
How many analogue line inputs are provided?
There are three stereo RCA line inputs labelled AUX 1, AUX 2 and AUX 3.
Does it have a phono stage?
Yes. It includes a dedicated low-noise Moving Magnet phono input.
Can I connect a Moving Coil cartridge?
Not directly in most cases. A conventional low-output Moving Coil cartridge requires a compatible external phono stage or step-up solution.
How many digital inputs are provided?
There are two coaxial inputs, two optical inputs and one HDMI ARC 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. Inserting a headphone plug mutes the loudspeaker output.
Can it be used as a preamplifier?
Yes. Pre Mode disconnects the internal power amplifier and sends the selected source through the variable pre-out.
Can it be used as a power amplifier?
Yes. Pre-Power Mode separates the internal sections and allows an external preamplifier or AV processor to feed the power-amplifier input.
Can it be integrated into a home cinema system?
Yes. HDMI ARC provides stereo television sound, while Pre-Power Mode allows the internal power stage to receive a front-channel signal from a suitable AV processor.
Can I connect a powered subwoofer?
Yes. A powered subwoofer with a suitable line-level input can be connected to the variable pre-out. The crossover and phase controls remain on the subwoofer.
Does it have a dedicated subwoofer output?
No. The preamplifier output is a full-range stereo output rather than a filtered subwoofer connection.
Can it 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.
Are 12V triggers included?
Yes. There is one trigger input and one trigger output. A suitable 3.5mm trigger cable is required separately.
Does it require ventilation?
Yes. Place it on a strong open shelf, keep the ventilation openings clear and avoid stacking warm-running equipment directly above it.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 444mm wide, 299mm deep and 65mm high.
How much does it weigh?
The net weight is approximately 7.78kg.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. A system remote control and two AAA batteries are supplied.
Which finishes are available?
The 6000A MKII 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 standard 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
- HDMI ARC and television configuration support
- Bluetooth pairing assistance
- Headphone matching advice
- Subwoofer and preamplifier-output guidance
- 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 6000A MKII.