Audiophile Audiolab 8000s hifi integrated Amplifier hi power 60W PC 8ohm what hifi best Amplifier

The Audiolab 8000S is a highly versatile, classic British hi-fi integrated amplifier. It was originally launched as the successor to the legendary Audiolab 8000A, introducing a low-profile, clean aesthetic alongside a unique rotary mode selector.

Key Technical Specifications

Power Output: 60 Watts per channel into 8 Ohms.

Peak Output Current: Over 25 Amps, enabling it to drive complex speaker loads easily.

Frequency Response: Wide 1Hz to 65kHz range.

Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Less than 0.05%.

Inputs: 6 line-level inputs (CD, Tuner, Aux, Video, Tape 1, Tape 2).

Phono Stage: None (unlike the older 8000A, the 8000S dropped the internal phono stage).

Operational Versatility (The 5 Modes)

The standout feature of the 8000S is its front-panel rotary switch. This eliminates the need for external bridging pins on the rear panel and configures the internal circuitry instantly:

Integrated: Operates normally as a standard single-box integrated amplifier.

Pre: Disconnects the power amp section completely, functioning purely as a standalone preamplifier.

Power: Bypasses the volume controls, acting solely as a dedicated power amplifier.

Pre-Power: Keeps both sections active but splits them internally, allowing you to insert an external audio processor or equalizer.

Engineering and Build Quirks

Heavy Resonance Dampening: The steel chassis is extensively lined internally with heavy butyl padding. This design dampens physical vibrations and gives the slim device a surprisingly heavy, premium feel. [1]

Mechanical Relays: Input selection is motor-driven and utilizes mechanical relays. This produces a distinct, audible mechanical click through the chassis whenever changing audio sources.

Production Eras: Early units were built natively in the United Kingdom and are highly sought after by collectors. Later iterations (mid-2000s) were produced under the International Audio Group (IAG) ownership with slight internal component layout upgrades.