What Hi-Fi? Verdict
With the Pre vs2 and the PSX-R power supply, this power amp's performance is magical.
Pros
- +
Thrillingly fast, detailed and expressive sound
Cons
- -
Low end might be a tad too lean for some
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.
When we tested this amp – with its partnering siblings, the Pre vs2 preamp and the PSX-R off-board power supply – what we weren't anticipating was the extra breadth and depth the 8 Power brought to the mix.
The 8 Power has a bottom end that enjoys the sort of solidity and authority that some recent Cyrus amplification has lacked.
The combination of rock-solid, taut, well-modulated low frequencies and dynamic fleet-footedness is thrilling. Add in a plausible soundstage, fanatical attention to transients and a beautifully neutral midrange, and you've an endlessly entertaining amp.
Sure, when you put all three components into a single, three-box combo, it looks a bit of an oddball set-up. But the Cyrus three-way has a long list of talents, and its short-comings are few (our biggest gripe is the length of time it has to be run before sounding its best).
In any case, the 8 Power's contribution is huge: it really is a fine power amplifier.
