Atoll MA100 Stereo Power Amplifier in Midi Format, Silver

The Atoll MA100 is a stereo power amplifier in midi format that delivers 2×60 watts into 8 ohms and can be bridged into a monoblock delivering 150 watts.

Four kilograms, 32 centimetres wide – and still a 170 VA toroidal transformer inside. The MA100 is proof that small and serious aren't mutually exclusive.

Why the MA100?

Because in a small format it follows the same circuit philosophy as Atoll's large power amplifiers: symmetrically built audio stages in discrete design, a Class A preamp stage, MOS-FET output stage. Plus 16,600 µF of filter capacitance and gold-plated screw terminals. A loop-through output lets you pass the signal on to a second power amplifier – handy if a monoblock pair is on the cards later.

What you hear

More than 60 watts would suggest. The bass stays taut, the midrange open, and bandwidth reaches up to 200 kHz. With normal bookshelf speakers in a room up to around 20 square metres, you'll rarely get close to the limit. And if you do: bridge it, add a second MA100, done.

Who is the MA100 suited for?

For the small, seriously intended system – together with the MS120 as source and preamp, that makes a complete chain in the space of two hands. In plain terms: without a preamp or a streamer with an adjustable output, it stays silent; it has no volume control. There's no headphone output. And on large, low-efficiency floorstanding speakers in a living room, 60 watts is simply too little – that's where an AM300 Evolution belongs.

Our verdict

One of the most likeable power amplifiers in the range: small, cool, quiet – and with noticeably more substance than the price would suggest. stereoplay awarded it a sound verdict of 100 points in issue 6/2015, with a "very good" price-performance verdict. Planning a second system or a setup for your home office? Call us on 044 680 22 00 or write via WhatsApp to 076 534 22 00, we at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil will put it together with you.

Technical data

• Type: stereo power amplifier in midi format, bridgeable to a monoblock
• Output power: 2 × 60 watts into 8 ohms, 2 × 80 watts into 4 ohms
• Bridged operation (mono): 150 watts into 8 ohms, 165 watts into 4 ohms, via internal switch
• Circuit: symmetrical audio stages in discrete design, Class A preamp stage, MOS-FET output stage
• Power supply: 170 VA toroidal transformer
• Filter capacitance: 16,600 µF
• Inputs: 1 × stereo RCA, 12V trigger input
• Outputs: 1 pair gold-plated speaker screw terminals, 1 × RCA loop-through output
• Output level: not adjustable – the power amplifier has no volume control
• Headphone output: not present
• Input impedance: 110 kOhm, input sensitivity 1.68 volts
• Frequency response: 5 Hz – 200 kHz
• Distortion: 0.05% at 1 kHz and 10 watts
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 100 dB(A)
• Rise time: 2 µs
• Chassis: 4 mm brushed aluminium front
• Colour: Silver
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 320 × 83 × 227 mm
• Weight: 4 kg
• Warranty: 2 years
• Scope of delivery: Atoll MA100, power cable, user manual

Frequently asked questions

How much power does the Atoll MA100 have?
2×60 watts into 8 ohms and 2×80 watts into 4 ohms. Bridged as a monoblock, it's 150 watts into 8 ohms. It's supplied by a 170 VA toroidal transformer and 16,600 µF of filter capacitance – a remarkable amount of effort for a device this size.

Can I run two MA100s as monoblocks?
Yes. An internal switch sets it to bridged operation, and each power amplifier then delivers 150 watts into 8 ohms on one channel. Two units make a monoblock pair. In bridged operation, the tolerable speaker impedance drops – we'll check that with you.

Does the Atoll MA100 need a preamplifier?
Yes. It has neither volume control nor source selection, only a single RCA input. Ahead of it belongs a preamp or a streamer with an adjustable output – the Atoll MS120 in the same format is the natural partner.

Does the MA100 have a headphone output?
No. The MA100 is a pure power amplifier: signal in, speaker power out. For headphones you need a dedicated device or a source with a headphone jack ahead of it – the MS120 has one, for example.

Why buy the Atoll MA100 at HD Zürisee?
Because a power amplifier gives little pleasure without the right preamp and speakers. We put together the small chain with you, check levels and impedances, and take care of delivery, installation, and service with our own technician.

Goes well with

Ahead of it belongs the Atoll MS120 from our streamers or a preamplifier. Behind it, bookshelf speakers on suitable stands – plus the right cables.