Lavardin ITx 20 Integrated Amplifier Anniversary Edition

The Lavardin ITx 20 is the anniversary-revised version of the ITx flagship – a fully analogue integrated amplifier with the same purist concept, but refined circuitry from a further ten years of development work on the Memory-Free technology.

Why the ITx 20?

To mark a round anniversary of the original IT model, Lavardin has kept refining the circuit and components over all these years. The ITx 20 takes over the format, power and basic philosophy of the ITx one-to-one, but brings a matured version of the Memory-Free circuit that the manufacturer describes as the most transparent implementation of its technology so far.

What you hear

Compared with the ITx, the ITx 20 feels a touch calmer and more resolved in the quiet passages, without losing the wiry, immediate character of the range. The micro-dynamics – small volume fluctuations within a single note – are, according to the manufacturer, reproduced with particular clarity, giving voices and acoustic instruments an extra dose of liveliness.

Who is the ITx 20 for? (and who isn't it for)

For customers who already know the ITx and want the best out of this platform without switching format. Plain talk: if you've never heard a Lavardin, first compare the ISx or ITx – the extra cost of the ITx 20 really only makes sense after a direct A/B comparison.

Our verdict

The ITx 20 is the logical peak of the ITx line: not a new concept, but an old one matured over years. If you're prepared to pay for the last few percent of resolution, you actually get more amplifier for your money here than the price list first suggests.

Technical data

• Power: 2× 55 W RMS at 8 Ω, max. 2× 110 W at 2 Ω
• Inputs: 4× RCA, gold-plated, input sensitivity 330 mV
• Input impedance: 10 kΩ
• Distortion: 0.001% at full output
• Power consumption: 35 W in standby, max. 400 W
• Dimensions (W×H×D): 430 × 135 × 340 mm
• Weight: 12 kg

Frequently asked questions

What sets the ITx 20 apart from the ITx?

Both share the format, power and basic concept. The ITx 20 brings a version of the Memory-Free circuit refined over a further ten years, which according to the manufacturer delivers more resolution and calm in quiet passages, with an unchanged, neutral tonal character.

Is the ITx 20 suitable as an entry point into the Lavardin range?

Not really as a first choice. If you don't yet know Lavardin, it's best to first listen your way through the ISx or ITx – the refinements of the ITx 20 are best judged in direct comparison with the more affordable models.

Does the ITx 20 need a separate preamp?

No, it's a fully-fledged integrated amplifier with four RCA inputs and its own volume control. An external preamp only makes sense if you want to bring additional sources with their own level matching, more inputs, or separate signal processing into your system.

Why buy the Lavardin ITx 20 at HD Zürisee?

We listen to you before recommending an amplifier in this price class – even if that sometimes means recommending the more affordable ITx first. Get in touch by phone, WhatsApp or email for an honest consultation.

Goes well with

The ITx 20 deserves high-quality floorstanding speakers and carefully chosen cables – on request we'll put together a matching chain for you.