All-LAiV System
Now that I had a solid understanding of the GaNM’s performance, it was time to evaluate the entire LAiV system, which includes the uDDC, Harmony DAC, HP2A preamp, and GaNM amplifiers.
At a total cost of approximately 12,000 Euros, this is not a trivial investment. However, considering that renowned reference components can often cost two to three times as much each, this perspective alters the perceived cost of the system.
Of course, the question remains: how does the complete LAiV system perform?
I’ll admit that I totally skewed the affordability again by using the Antipodes Oladra Music Server as a source. Then again, I also use it for the big reference system. Among this server’s many abilities is the presence of an I2S output, which is ideal for the Harmony uDDC and Harmony DAC.
I’ve been waxing lyrical about the GaNMs in this review, but regular readers will already know I am equally impressed with all other LAiV components. And with that in mind, all these components combined should logically lead to a great combined result. The reality is that using individually great-sounding components does not guarantee great synergy. With these LAiV components, however, it most definitely does!
The LAiV components work together to deliver a vivid, expressive, and engaging performance that is uniformly neutral, coherent, upbeat, and convincingly realistic in timbre and texture. The system sounds so well-balanced that it is hard to come up with any criticism. But if I had to single out one area that could divide opinion, it is that it is very revealing and does not romanticize the sound. There is no added body, bloom, richness, or warmth. This is an incredibly neutral system that will let you hear precisely what cables you use and what is in the recordings.
Conclusion
The GaNM amplifiers have impressed me deeply. Not only are they the best Class-D amplifiers I’ve heard, but they are also among the highest performing amplifiers I’ve heard in a league well beyond double their price point, regardless of technology.
These gorgeous little amplifiers are also musical omnivores, performing equally well with any music genre. Whether playing intimate soul, hard-hitting rock, dark blues, fast-paced electronic music, or small ensemble acoustic performances, the GaNMs simply deliver the acoustic realism and emotional intent with great fidelity.
Forget prejudice against Class-D: with the GaNMs, it’s no longer a matter of accepting a technically impressive performance that lacks musicality and emotional depth.
The LAiV GaNMs present a sizable slice of the true reference performance in a gorgeous enclosure, at an attainable price.
In fact, I liked these little beauties so much, that I made them a permanent part of the system. This means that they are not only Highly Recommended, but also HFA Favorites.
External Links
Manufacturer: LAiV Audio
