Advance Paris MyConnect 250 Streaming Amplifier

The Advance Paris MyConnect 250 is the flagship among Advance Paris's all-in-one streaming amplifiers: tube preamp, dual-mono power stage with 2 × 190 watts into 8 ohms, CD player, DAB+/FM tuner and network streaming in one housing. A complete high-end system in 43 centimeters of width – all you need now is speakers and some good music.

Why the MyConnect 250?

Because it packs amplifier engineering of the caliber found in large integrated amplifiers: two 300 VA toroidal transformers in a dual-mono layout, a tube preamp for the harmonic fundamental, and 2 × 280 watts into 4 ohms for control. The High-Bias switch lifts the power stage into Class A territory at moderate levels – more richness at the push of a button. Anyone who claims all-in-one always sounds like a compromise simply hasn't heard this one yet.

What you hear

Probably the most complete connection list in its class: HDMI ARC for the TV plus a second HDMI audio input, three optical and two coaxial digital inputs, AES/EBU, USB-B, two XLR and five RCA inputs, Amp-In for home theater bypass, and a phono input for both MM and MC cartridges. Output happens via XLR and RCA Pre-Out, two subwoofer outputs with switchable crossover, and three speaker zones (A/B/C). Add the built-in CD drive and the DAB+/FM tuner. Streaming happens via Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer and internet radio through the Playstream app – CD, radio and vinyl run entirely without a subscription, of course.

Who is the MyConnect 250 right for – and who isn't it right for?

Plain talk: the MyConnect 250 is for large rooms, demanding speakers, and anyone who truly wants every source in one device – multi-zone sound included. For small living rooms with compact speakers it's oversized; the MyCast 7 or MyConnect 60 make more sense there (and fewer back aches – 19 kg is a statement). Bluetooth is only available via an optional dongle.

What does the trade press say?

hifitest.de concluded that you can hardly buy anything better if you want just one device and no sonic compromises. fairaudio also certified the MyConnect 250 in its test the qualities of a full-fledged audiophile all-in-one system. There's little to add to that – except perhaps: correct.

Our verdict

The MyConnect 250 is the system for people who want to be done – in the best sense: one device, every source, real power, tube charm. Whether it suits your speakers, your room and your listening habits is something we're happy to discuss in person at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil – call us (+41 44 680 22 00), write to shop@hdzuerisee.ch or reach out via WhatsApp (076 534 22 00, text only, no calls).

Technical specifications

• Type: All-in-one streaming amplifier with tube preamp, CD player and DAB+/FM tuner
• Output power: 2 × 190 W into 8 Ω / 2 × 280 W into 4 Ω (Class AB, High-Bias switch)
• Power supply: Dual mono, 2 × 300 VA toroidal transformer
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 80 kHz
• Distortion (THD): < 0.007 %
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 103 dB
• Channel separation: > 75 dB
• DAC: Burr-Brown PCM1796, 24-bit/192 kHz (USB-B up to DSD128)
• CD drive: built-in (CD, CD-R/RW, MP3/WMA)
• Tuner: DAB+, DAB, FM
• Streaming: Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, internet radio, AirPlay, UPnP – Advance Playstream app
• Digital inputs: HDMI ARC + HDMI Audio, 3 × optical, 2 × coaxial, AES/EBU, USB-B (X-MOS), USB-A
• Analog inputs: 2 × XLR, 5 × RCA, Amp-In, Phono MM/MC (capacitance 100/200/320 pF selectable)
• Outputs: Pre-Out (XLR + RCA), Rec-Out, 2 × Sub-Out (crossover 75/150 Hz), Speaker A/B/C
• Output level: Pre-Out switchable fixed or variable (XLR and RCA); Rec-Out fixed
• Headphone output: available – 6.35 mm and 3.5 mm jack on the front, gain and impedance (0 Ω / 100 Ω) adjustable for headphones from 32 to 600 Ω
• Bluetooth: optional via dongle X-FTB01 / X-FTB02
• Other: 12V trigger IN/OUT, Ethernet (RJ-45), Wi-Fi
• Mains voltage: 115/230 V (switchable)
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 43 × 19.5 × 45.5 cm
• Weight: 19 kg
• Included: MyConnect 250, remote control, power cable, Wi-Fi antenna, DAB+/FM antenna, manual

Frequently asked questions

Can I listen to CDs with the MyConnect 250?

Yes, a CD drive is permanently built in and plays CD, CD-R/RW as well as MP3 and WMA discs. Conversion runs through the same Burr-Brown PCM1796 as streaming, so your collection sounds equally good. A separate CD player becomes unnecessary – and you free up a spot in the rack.

What's the difference between the MyConnect 250 and the MyConnect 150?

The 250 is the expanded version: dual-mono power supply with two 300 VA transformers, 2 × 190 instead of 2 × 130 watts into 8 ohms, HDMI ARC, XLR inputs and Pre-Out, Phono MM and MC, and three instead of two speaker zones. For large rooms and demanding speakers, it's the more confident choice.

Can I connect the TV directly?

Yes, via HDMI ARC the TV sound runs through the system with a single cable, and you control the volume with the TV remote. For stereo home theater, the MyConnect 250 thus replaces an AV receiver – and sounds noticeably more grown-up than any soundbar.

Does the MyConnect 250 work without a streaming subscription too?

Yes, fully: CD player, DAB+/FM radio, internet radio, vinyl via the phono input, and music from a NAS all work without any subscription. Spotify, Qobuz, Tidal or Deezer are an option for anyone who already uses them – not a requirement for full functionality.

Can I connect MM and MC cartridges?

Yes, the built-in phono stage supports both systems, with the input capacitance selectable between 100, 200 and 320 pF. Your turntable connects directly to the MyConnect 250, without an external phono stage. We're happy to explain which setting suits your cartridge.

Why buy the MyConnect 250 at HD Zürisee?

Because a device that can do everything has to fit your setup – from the speakers through the zones to the controls. We know the MyConnect family from practical experience, deliver and install at your home on request, and as an authorized dealer with our own technician remain available even after the purchase.

Goes well with

So the MyConnect 250 can play to its reserves: large floorstanding speakers, a turntable at the MM/MC phono stage, a subwoofer at the two sub outputs – and more from the brand in the Advance Paris overview.