Audio Analogue ABsolute 3.0 Integrated Amplifier, Silver

The Audio Analogue ABsolute 3.0 is an integrated amplifier from the ABsolute reference line, delivering 300 watts in Class AB without global feedback and controlling volume via an analogue relay-resistor circuit.

It's the most powerful reading of the ABsolute idea: preamplifier and power amplifier in one chassis, developed under the AIRTECH signature and hand-built in Italy. Anyone who's tried to lift it out of the box alone knows pretty exactly, afterwards, where the priorities lay.

Why the ABsolute 3.0?

Because it brings together two things that usually prefer to exclude each other: headroom and calm. The circuit does without a global feedback loop – nothing straightens the signal out after the fact. The RR volume control doesn't use a potentiometer but switches precisely defined precision resistors via relays: reproducible steps, a short signal path, both channels in lockstep. Three RCA and two XLR inputs take in whatever sources you bring.

What you'll hear

What stands out first is what's missing: the slight tension many amplifiers develop during complex passages. The ABsolute 3.0 stays composed when an orchestra goes full tilt or a bassline digs deep. Voices stand free, instruments keep their place, and the volume can be parked in fine steps exactly where it's right – instead of somewhere between "too quiet" and "the neighbour's about to ring the bell".

Who is the ABsolute 3.0 for?

For anyone who really wants to drive demanding speakers and prefers a single, uncompromising device over a separate pre/power combination. Straight talk: if you're after the particular warmth of pure Class A, you're better served by the original ABsolute (50 W Class A / 150 W Class AB). And if you're after a dainty unit for the sideboard, measure first – 50 kilograms across 48 centimetres of width don't forgive an improvised setup.

Our verdict

The ABsolute 3.0 isn't an amplifier that needs to prove anything – it simply has no weak point to pick at. Whether it suits your speakers and your room, we'll tell you honestly, even when the answer is "no": HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, +41 44 680 22 00 or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical specifications

• Type: integrated amplifier, Class AB, without global feedback (Zero Feedback)
• Line: ABsolute reference line, designed by AIRTECH
• Output power: 300 W at 8 Ω (Class AB)
• Volume control: analogue RR control via relays and precision resistors
• Inputs: 3 × RCA (unbalanced), 2 × XLR (balanced)
• Input impedance: 47 kΩ
• Maximum input signal: 6 Vrms
• Frequency response: 1 Hz – 200 kHz
• Finish: Silver
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 483 × 270 × 445 mm
• Weight: 50 kg
• Warranty: 5 years from date of purchase
• Scope of delivery: integrated amplifier, solid-aluminium remote control

Frequently Asked Questions

How much power does the ABsolute 3.0 have?

The ABsolute 3.0 delivers 300 watts at 8 ohms in Class AB. This headroom is intended less for high levels than for control: speakers with a difficult impedance curve stay cleanly driven even with complex music, instead of blurring in the midrange or going soft in the bass.

What does the RR volume control mean?

RR stands for an analogue volume control via relays and precision resistors. Instead of a classic potentiometer, the amplifier switches precisely defined steps. This keeps the signal path short, ensures reproducible levels, and keeps both channels in lockstep across the entire range – even very quiet, late at night.

What does Zero Feedback mean?

Zero Feedback means the amplifier operates without a global feedback loop. Classic circuits feed part of the output signal back to improve measured values. Audio Analogue forgoes this across the entire ABsolute line and instead relies on a design that's linear from the ground up, developed by AIRTECH.

Which sources can I connect?

Three unbalanced RCA inputs and two balanced XLR inputs are on hand, with an input impedance of 47 kiloohms. That's enough room for a CD player, DAC and streamer all at once. The manufacturer doesn't list a phono stage – so for your turntable, plan on a separate phono preamplifier.

Why buy the ABsolute 3.0 from HD Zürisee?

Because an amplifier of this calibre is only as good as the speakers and the room around it – and that's exactly what we talk through with you before you decide. We're an authorized Audio Analogue dealer, have our own technician in-house, and deliver and set up at your place.

Pairs well with

The ABsolute 3.0 demands partners on its level: the rest of the line lives in the Audio Analogue world, matching speakers under Floorstanding Speakers and in the Speakers overview. Source components sit under All Sources, and the connection between them shouldn't be left to chance – see Cables & Connectors.