Musical Fidelity M6i Amplifier
Musical Fidelity M6i is a classic hi-fi amplifier with a linear path. The developers did not set a goal to expand its functionality; attention was paid only to what is directly responsible for sound quality. The amplifier has an isolated pre-section with an extremely short path and a switch to five sources (one of them is connected via a balanced input). The 200-watt power amplifiers, operating in B class, are also physically separated and form a dual-mono circuit, although they are powered by a single powerful transformer with separated windings.
Connecting the source to the balanced input of Musical Fidelity M6i guarantees the best result. The amplifier forms a geometrically correct sound stage. All the plans are in place and easy to read, the apparent sources are not inflated. Tonal nuances are expressively developed - the amplifier faithfully conveys the harmonic color of all instruments. The bass is almost perfect, well-damped, not disbanded and inextricably linked to the middle register. The upper band is neutral. Cool shades, which you can sometimes notice, do not distract. But, generally, there is no transistor coloring, so all sound details are reproduced in the smallest detail. M6i gives a lot of music information and does not hide anything important - you quickly get used to its powerful, confident sound, despite its strict manners.
Switching to a normal line input is accompanied by a slight decrease in gain (with the volume knob unchanged), but if you compensate it, you will get a very similar open sound with the same strong dynamic temperament. Strict tonal balance with cool shades is also saved. In the upper middle some kind of dryness arises, but it is insignificant and, probably, caused by the peculiarities of the cables.
The transition to USB leads to an even weaker volume - for some reason the developers did not take care of level equalization for different inputs. The bass is normal, definite, full-weight - there are no complaints to it. The bottom middle also pleases with harmony. Musical Fidelity M6i sounds without deception, with a natural and fast dynamics. However, in the middle register there is no idyll anymore - a tint of digital origin appears in the sound, the detailing deteriorates. And the upper register does not shine with beauty. Discants are simplified, they get crystal cold shades.
