{"id":43609,"date":"2026-05-29T22:27:16","date_gmt":"2026-05-29T20:27:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hifi-advice.com\/blog\/?p=43609"},"modified":"2026-05-29T22:30:34","modified_gmt":"2026-05-29T20:30:34","slug":"laiv-chorus-stereo-mono-power-amplifier","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hifi-advice.com\/blog\/amplifier-reviews\/power-amplifier-reviews\/laiv-chorus-stereo-mono-power-amplifier\/","title":{"rendered":"LAiV Chorus stereo\/mono GaN power amplifier"},"content":{"rendered":"

Review sample provided by LAiV Audio<\/a>
\nRetail price: USD 994 + VAT (~1.000 Euro in the EU)<\/h4>\n

Crescendo Range<\/h3>\n

The Crescendo<\/span> series represents LAiV\u2019s recently introduced entry-level lineup, designed to make high-end performance more accessible while staying true to their\u00a0design DNA and engineering philosophy<\/span>. The Verse DAC<\/a> was the first product in the new Crescendo range, and the Chorus power amplifier reviewed here is the second.<\/p>\n

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Chorus is available in a silver and black powder-coated finish<\/em><\/p>\n

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Chorus<\/h3>\n

The LAiV Crescendo Chorus is a GaN stereo power amplifier with bridge-mono capability. A trickled-down design from the Harmony GaNM, the Chorus saves costs in the right places to bring Gallium Nitride amplification technology to a Crescendo price point.<\/p>\n

For instance, Chorus uses a stamped aluminum chassis rather than CNC-machined aluminum, a powder-coated finish rather than an anodized finish, and a 160W power supply compared to GaNM’s 250W supply. Nevertheless, the Chorus still excels in transparency and resolution, thanks to its high-bandwidth frequency response and the inherent advantages of GaN technology. Its compact form makes it a natural fit for both full-size and desktop systems.<\/p>\n

Both XLR and RCA inputs are provided. In bridge mono mode, even the RCA input is internally converted to a balanced signal path, enabling a fully differential amplification architecture.<\/p>\n

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The Chorus can operate in two distinct modes, each optimized for different system configurations and listening priorities.<\/p>\n

In stereo mode, Chorus operates as a single-ended amplifier with two independent channels, delivering 50W per channel into 8\u03a9 or 80W per channel into 4\u03a9. Both XLR (balanced) and RCA (single-ended) inputs are accepted, though the internal amplification remains single-ended regardless of input type. The balanced input offers better THD and SNR performance. This is the plug-and-play configuration for most two-channel systems, offering broad compatibility with virtually any preamplifier or DAC.<\/p>\n

Switching to bridge mono mode transforms Chorus into a fully differential, true balanced amplifier. A single input is received and internally converted into a balanced signal, driving both amplifier channels in a bridged configuration to produce 120W of true balanced power into 8\u03a9 and 4\u03a9, stable into 2\u03a9, with a maximum instantaneous power of 165W. Even when using the RCA input, the signal is internally converted to a balanced signal path to take full advantage of the fully differential amplification architecture. Overall performance in mono mode is higher than in stereo, with improved noise rejection and dynamic range.<\/p>\n

For ultimate performance, pair two Crescendo CHORUS units, each operating in bridge mono mode. In this configuration, each unit takes one channel, converts it to a balanced signal, and delivers 120W of true balanced output. With complete electrical separation between left and right channels, separate power supplies, and separate amplification stages, crosstalk is eliminated entirely.<\/p>\n

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At the heart of the Crescendo Chorus is Gallium Nitride (GaN) transistor technology, a fundamental advancement over traditional silicon MOSFETs in audio power amplifier design. GaN transistors switch at ultra-fast speeds, translating directly into lower total harmonic distortion, wider audio bandwidth, and higher overall efficiency.<\/em><\/p>\n

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Unlike conventional Class D amplifiers, the GaN power amplifier topology in Chorus achieves its performance without the thermal penalties and signal degradation that often accompany high-power output. The result is an amplifier that runs cooler and occupies less space.<\/em><\/p>\n

The amplifier features three layers of protection to safeguard both the amplifier and your loudspeakers. Upon startup, the built-in microcontroller runs a full system check before switching into operation mode, verifying that all circuits operate within safe parameters before any audio signal is passed.<\/p>\n

DC Offset Protection detects DC offset at the output and disconnects the speaker terminals to prevent driver damage.\u00a0Over-Current Protection monitors output current and limits the drive to prevent damage during sustained high-level playback.\u00a0Over-Temperature Protection triggers automatic shutdown if internal temperatures exceed safe thresholds, protecting components and extending service life.<\/p>\n

Chorus is engineered for continuous operation, delivering optimal performance and convenience without the need to power cycle between listening sessions. Standby power consumption is under 2W, and idle power sits below 20W, making always-on operation both practical and efficient.<\/p>\n

Next: Review Context and Listening<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Review Context<\/h3>\n

I received two Chorus power amplifiers, so I can test a single unit in stereo and a pair in bridged mono operation. They were<\/span> listened to\u00a0<\/span>in the main system<\/a>, comprising<\/span>\u00a0the CH Precision C1.2<\/a> DAC,\u00a0L1<\/a>\u00a0preamplifier, and\u00a0A1.5<\/a> power amplifier<\/span>. In addition, the LAiV Verse DAC<\/a> and the LAiV GaNM<\/a> power amplifiers are available for comparison.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Digital sources include the Aqua La Diva M2<\/a> CD Transport, Antipodes Oladra<\/a>, and Grimm MU1<\/a> music servers. A range of power cables was used, but the same types were always used when making comparisons. Speakers used are the Apogee Duetta Signature (recently fitted with new foils),\u00a0the\u00a0Driade Premium Model 9,<\/a> the Apertura Armonia Evo, and the\u00a0<\/span>Adamante.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>All interlinks are Driade Flow Link Reference 808<\/a>, and the speaker cables are Driade Flow Reference 808<\/a>. All components (including review components) are powered by the PS Audio P20<\/a> PowerPlant.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Listening<\/h3>\n

Starting with the Chorus in stereo mode, driving the Apogee Duetta speakers instead of the CH Precision A1.5 reference power amp, and using the CH C1.2 DAC and L1 preamp as its source, the amplifier makes a surprisingly good start. As one might expect, the Chorus does not perform on the same level as the A1.5. That is to be expected with a 40x price difference. However, what I did not expect to hear was a similar level of resolution, refinement,\u00a0 fluidity, and air. Given the massive price discrepancy, that’s quite something.<\/p>\n

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For a much fairer comparison, I also set up the Laiv GaNMs<\/a>. <\/span>To provide the same conditions, I positioned the GaNMs on the supplied discs, which have the same soft rubber underside as used by the Crescendo components. After allowing the four amplifiers a few hours of warm-up time, the Chorus units feel warmer to the touch than the GaNMs, which run almost entirely cool.<\/p>\n

Compared with these larger, more powerful, and still five times as costly models, the Chorus has a predominantly <\/span>different<\/em> sonic presentation. I expected to hear of a significant performance gap, but the differences are, for the most part, relative.\u00a0The Chorus, in stereo mode, does not sound as solid and expressive as the GaNMs. On the other hand, the new amp is sweeter, warmer, and more delicate, with airier and more fluid treble. While the GaNMs have a purer, timbrally more realistic delivery with spicier transient behavior, the Chorus amplifier still has excellent grip and is every bit as resolving.<\/p>\n

I should also add that the GaNMs are pretty bold and direct. In some combinations and to some ears, they can sound dry or maybe a little rough. This is not the case with the Chorus, which is deliberately designed to sound richer and smoother. Indeed, the GaNMs sound a little rough when combined with the Duettas, whereas the Chorus amplifiers are more forgiving, and in terms of fluidity and refinement actually behave a little more like the CH A1.5.<\/p>\n

When switched to Bridged Mono and using two Chorus amplifiers, the amplifier seriously steps up the game. The output level is now significantly higher; technically, it should be 3dB, but it feels like more. It’s as if the musical performers woke up, had their morning coffee, and are ready for action. When using two Chorus amplifiers in Bridged mono mode, all the refinement and sophistication is retained, with increased solidity, drive, expression, and dynamics. Apparently, in this case, 1+1=3.<\/p>\n

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Verse + 2x Chorus<\/h3>\n

Replacing the CH C1.2 DAC and L1 preamp with the LAiV Verse<\/a> DAC\/Preamp drastically reduces the system’s size and cost, and one would expect an equally drastic drop in performance. And of course, the Verse does not offer the same level of performance as the Swiss Reference Components. However, the resulting sound still surpasses expectations. The trio sounds sweet, sophisticated, and highly refined, and on the whole, it performs at a clearly higher level than similarly priced integrated amplifiers. It’s so accomplished that one would need to invest at least twice as much to make a significant performance improvement. For instance, the LAiV HP2A<\/a> preamp alone costs as much as the Verse and two Chorus amplifiers. But compared to the Verse, it also raises the sound quality in multiple areas, such as tightness, conviction, expression, and timbre, and brings the sound closer to the CH L1, which is even better across the board.<\/p>\n

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Nevertheless, this modest system exhibits unexpectedly high resolution, with a fluid, airy, and liquid nature. The overall balance leans slightly toward the warm side of neutral and is invitingly smooth, delicate, sophisticated, and friendly. Tonally, the system sounds neither lean nor fat, and has just the right amount of saturation. Pacing is also just right, neither slow nor hurried.<\/p>\n

Technically, the trio ticks many of the most important audiophile boxes. The only areas of critique are timbre and texture, where the HP2A and GaNMs perform more convincingly realistically, but even so, the Verse and Chorus perform ridiculously well at the price point. What’s more, the combo also delivers musicality with the ease of a competent Class AB design. One wouldn’t expect it from class-D amplifiers, but they are also quite lyrical and emotionally engaging.<\/p>\n

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The Chorus has no trouble at all driving the Apogee Duettas, not even when using a single unit in stereo mode. These Apogees are not terribly hard to drive (they are not Scintillas), but they are quite inefficient and very revealing, and they are known to highlight flaws in recordings and equipment. If there is any sharpness in the chain, the Duettas will make it known. With the LAiV system, however, the sound is smooth, fluid, natural, and forgiving.<\/p>\n

Next: Other speakers and Conclusion<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Other Speakers<\/h3>\n

To make sure I’m not favoring a certain amplifier-speaker match, I also tried a range of other speakers. First, the Driade Premium Model 9 monitors. As it turned out, these speakers behave the same as the Apogees. Refinement and resolution are again notably strong areas, while the speakers sound rhythmically propulsive and dynamically lively. The GaNMs do provide an even more hard-kicking, down-to-the-bone funky\/rockin’ sound than the Chorus duo, but the Driades are so inherently lively that I don’t feel I’m missing out with the Chorus pair.<\/p>\n

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The Apertura Armonia Evolutions’ ribbon tweeters share a few sonic properties with the Apogees, such as very high resolution and transparency. As with the Duettas, the treble is again very good. It’s open and airy, yet fluid, refined, and delicate, and absolutely in no way reminiscent of early Class-D. The Armonia Evos are lusher and more relaxed than the Duettas, resulting in a slightly mellower and laid-back overall presentation when paired with the Chorus amplifiers. Here, the GaNMs provide a more energetic, exciting, and communicative presentation.<\/p>\n

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The big Apertura Adamante has higher efficiency and a spicier, more direct midrange, and it pairs particularly well with the sophistication of the Chorus amplifiers. Although these speakers deserve a much larger amplification budget, there really is remarkably little to criticize about the Chorus’ behavior. Even the timbre sounds pretty natural in this combination.<\/p>\n

Most importantly, the amplifiers perform consistently across all four speakers. The balance doesn’t change, and there’s never a feeling that they lack power. On paper, they may be less powerful than the GaNMs, but aside from the established differences in character that may or may not tie in with this, I don’t notice a lack of power. For my listening habits, it seems that 120 Watts is sufficient.<\/p>\n

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Conclusion<\/h2>\n

When used in stereo mode, the Chorus delivers a remarkably sophisticated sound. It’s detailed and transparent, yet fluid, subtly warm, and highly refined, with delicate, airy treble. When using two Chorus amplifiers in Bridged mono mode, all the refinement and sophistication is retained, with increased solidity, drive, expression, and dynamics.<\/p>\n

The Chorus, whether a single unit in Stereo Mode or two units in Bridged Mono mode, pairs perfectly with the same-size, similarly-sounding, and equally affordable Verse DAC\/Preamp. The level of sound quality achieved by this unassuming duo or trio is remarkable, especially given the components’ miniature size.<\/p>\n

While<\/span>\u00a0a single Chorus offers\u00a0<\/span>great value, I suggest purchasing two and using them in Bridge Mode if your budget allows.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span>Even at double the cost, they remain a cost-effective <\/span>alternative to the LAiV GaNMs.<\/span><\/p>\n

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External Links<\/h3>\n

Manufacturer: LAiV Audio<\/a><\/p>\n

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