Lavardin A80 Reference Power Amplifier France

The Lavardin A80 Reference is the refined version of the A80 power amp: same power, same format, but reworked circuitry and power supply for more resolution in the detail.

Why the A80 Reference?

As with the ISx Reference, Lavardin doesn't go the route of more watts here either, but of finer components and a quieter power supply. If you already like the A80 but want that last bit of resolution, the Reference version gives you the same neutral basic character with more depth and finer micro-dynamics.

What you hear

Compared with the A80, the soundstage feels wider, details resolve more clearly, without the presentation sounding technical or cold. The emotional connection to the music – a core promise from Lavardin – stays intact, just with more nuance in the quiet passages.

Who is the A80 Reference for? (and who isn't it for)

For anyone who already owns a high-resolution preamp and demanding speakers and wants to get the best out of this chain. Plain talk: on a simpler preamp or more affordable speakers, the added value over the standard A80 evaporates – there the base version is entirely sufficient.

Our verdict

A power amp for the last few percent: not a must-have, but a comprehensible step for anyone who already knows the A80 and knows what they're listening for. The most honest way to judge it is a direct comparison at our place.

Technical data

• Power: 2× 50 W RMS at 8 Ω, max. 2× 105 W at 2 Ω
• Input sensitivity: 780 mV
• Distortion: 0.005% at full output
• Power consumption: 32 W in standby, max. 180 W
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 430 × 80 × 340 mm
• Weight: 6.5 kg

Frequently asked questions

What sets the A80 Reference apart from the standard A80?

Not the power figures, which are identical, but the power supply and circuit details. The Reference resolves more finely and presents a somewhat wider, deeper soundstage, with the same neutral basic character as the standard A80 – just with more nuance.

Do I need a specific preamp for the A80 Reference?

What's essential is a preamp with adjustable level; technically any common one will do. But you get the biggest gain from combining it with an equally high-resolution preamp like the Lavardin CX42, so the whole chain can keep up.

Is the extra cost for the Reference version worth it?

That depends heavily on the rest of your chain. On high-quality speakers and a finely resolving preamp, the difference is clearly audible; on simpler systems, less so. We recommend a direct comparison at our place before making your purchase decision.

Why buy the Lavardin A80 Reference at HD Zürisee?

We know the whole A80 range from our own experience and give you honest advice on whether the extra cost of the Reference version is worth it in your system. Get in touch by phone, WhatsApp or email for a personal, non-binding consultation at our place in Wädenswil.

Goes well with

The Lavardin CX42 makes a great preamp match for the A80 Reference; for high-resolution chains it's also worth a look at our floorstanding speakers.