Power Amplifier Reviews

Comparisons & Conclusion
My reference amplifier is an Anthem PVA 7, which has a power rating of 105Wpc into 8 ohms (140Wpc into 4 ohms). The Wyred 4 Sound Ice Cube MC I reviewed has two and a half times the power into 8 ohms, and well over three times the power with my 4-ohm M&Ks, so in this regard, the W4S kicks the Anthem's butt. Granted, the PVA 7 is half the price of the Ice Cube, so a direct comparison is not entirely fair.

Still, I wish I knew about Wyred 4 Sound earlier this year when I made my move to separates. I have been very pleased with the Anthem's performance in six months of use; it has a warm and inviting sound, and I never felt it lacked dynamic power—until now.

Not only is the W4S more powerful, I find it more transparent and forward, especially on the highs, without ever feeling fatiguing or bright. The deep bass extension is clean and detailed, and with its Class D design, it runs much cooler and doesn't waste energy.

As I mentioned at the outset, Wyred 4 Sound sells its products only online. You can buy them direct from the manufacturer or Underwood HiFi.

In my time with this amp, I have been in audio heaven. When I review a product, I usually look forward to placing my own equipment back in my rack, but that wasn't the case here. After I reinstalled my Anthem, I instantly missed the Wyred 4 Sound, and I immediately put it on my short list of upgrades—it's that good.

I started this review with no preconceptions of how well—or poorly—the Ice Cube MC would perform. Wyred 4 Sound's stated goal of producing a product that combines the highest level of sound reproduction with an amazing value component has clearly been met, and then some.

Highs
Clean, powerful sound
Excellent dynamics
Energy efficient
Great value

Lows
Problem accepting spade lugs