Whilst you might be able to debate wheather or not the 010 really constitutes an integrated amp (two inputs, one balanced and one single-ended, plus a volume control is all the switching you get) ont thing you can't argue with is the unit's sheer density. A 1400VA transformer in a chassis this compact makes for a product that should be lifted with considerable causion! For once, when a manufacturer says "25 Watts, Class A", the weight of the amp as well as the heat generated means it carries the ring of truth. Musically the end result of all that iron and the current it supplies is an icredible stability to the expansive sound-stage, an inky blackness to the acoustic space, an utterly unforced and natural pace to proceedings. This amp is all about control without constraint, resolution without overt or obvious detail. Indeed, the 010's musical qualities are as discrete and understated as its exterior; but just like the schock you get when you first try to move it, just wait until the music turnsexplosive or nasty. There's nothing shy or retiring here. This level of clarity and musicalcommunication is rare indeed. The fact that the input options allow you to investin it by stages, running the 010 as a standalone unit to start with until you can add a pukka line-stage later, just pushes the value quotient from "excellent" into the realms of "truely remarkable". The price might seem high for the power on offer, but it's cheap for the quality delivered.
The Vitus Audio 010 is a genuine high-end bargin.
Chris Thomas - HiFi+