Collection: AVM

AVM is a German hi-fi manufacturer that develops and builds amplifiers, streaming sources and turntables in Malsch near Karlsruhe. The choice runs less through model names and more through two questions: how many components should your chain have, and at what level?

What you choose by

First question: one device or several. The streaming integrated amplifiers of the AS and CS models bring network, converter, preamp and power amp into one chassis, the CS variants adding a CD transport as well; the network side is handled by AVM's own X-Stream Engine. A streaming service is an option here, not a requirement – internet radio, files from the network and the silver disc all work without one too. If you prefer to separate things, you combine a streaming preamplifier with stereo or mono power amps; purely analog, the Ovation PA 8.3 remains as preamplifier. For vinyl there are the PH phono stages and the Rotation turntables, which arrive without a cartridge – AVM has Ortofon build the exclusive Cadenza AVM.3, tuned to their own tonearms.

The series and what they stand for

From entry to reference: AVM30 / 30.3 is the entry line that grew out of the anniversary series – from the integrated amplifier through mono power amps to the PC power filters, and according to AVM the line with the best price-performance ratio in the house. Inspiration is the compact class, explicitly developed for the living room and built to be at home there. Evolution steps up the power supply and features: on the 5.3 models a tube stage sits in the preamplifier section, the 3.3 models remain purely transistorized and thus a touch more neutral. Ovation is the reference line – modular, with plug-in cards and an upgradeable DAC module, so a device you expand rather than replace. Then there's the Audition bookshelf speakers as its own speaker line. Across all series there's silver, black and the chrome-plated Cellini front, which you either want right away or never.

What suits whom

If the chain should stay slim, a streaming integrated amplifier from the 30.3 or Inspiration range is enough. Separate components pay off with demanding speakers, large rooms or a collection that's grown over the years. What actually changes something in your room, we at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil prefer to clarify with you beforehand – by phone, email or WhatsApp.

Frequently asked questions

What do AS, CS, MP and PA stand for at AVM?

AS denotes the streaming integrated amplifiers, CS the same units with a CD transport added. MP, PAS and SD are streaming preamplifiers without their own power amp, PA a purely analog preamplifier. MA stands for mono, SA for stereo power amps, PH for the phono stages and PC for the power filters. The number after it tells you the series.

How long is the warranty on AVM units?

AVM gives a two-year manufacturer's warranty, and free product registration with AVM extends it by up to two further years. This registration program, however, ties AVM to residency in the EU. What follows from that for you in Switzerland, we'll clarify with you bindingly before purchase, rather than leaving you alone with the fine print.

Why buy AVM at HD Zürisee?

Because with AVM the right choice depends less on the model name than on your chain. We work out with you whether one device is enough or separating pays off, whether your speakers match the power amp, and which level actually brings something. On top of that comes delivery, on-site installation and, with Mauri, our own technician in-house.

Move on to all amplifiers, all sources, everything on vinyl and the other brands.