What Hi-Fi? Verdict
It's perfectly pleasant but we'd like more bite
Pros
- +
Good tonal qualities, pleasant listen, on/off button, well built
Cons
- -
Needs more punch
Why you can trust What Hi-Fi? Our expert team reviews products in dedicated test rooms, to help you make the best choice for your budget. Find out more about how we test.
First impressions of the Creek OBH-21SE are good: ?it feels well-made and solid with a clear blue LED light ?to let you know it's on.
It' also features a handy, rear-mounted on/off push button as opposed to becoming active the moment it's plugged in.
Mounted on the front are two headphone inputs and a weighty volume control. Creek, like the other manufacturers here, also supplies a 12vDC power supply with the amplifier.
In use it serves up a spacious sound with a good tonal balance. The midrange is pleasantly smooth, with vocals possessing a nice sense of warmth. Bass and treble also sit well together, while detailing is more than capable.
What you get with the Creek is a relaxing, pleasant listen. It's a very likeable amplifier, but it needs more verve to really shine.
Other amps are more insightful when handling music, and have the extra bite the Creek needs to give it that additional edge.
You should audition this – especially if you prefer a safer sound – but we think it could do with a bit more punch
