Audio Research I/50 Integrated Vacuum Tube Amplifier

Audio Research I/55 Integrated Vacuum Tube Amplifier

Audio Research I/50 Integrated Vacuum Tube Amplifier

$12,000.00

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Colour: Black

Black

White

Silver

Extra input: None

None

DAC Card

Phono Card

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Functionally simple, visually engaging and musically sublime

The I/50 Integrated Amplifier is the first product in an all-new series from Audio Research. Functionally simple, visually engaging, and musically sublime - the I/50 takes music listening to a whole new experience. Hand-crafted in Minnesota, the I/50 is built with the same attention to detail as all other Audio Research products - each one even gets its own listening test with sonic designer, Warren Gehl.

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Specifications

Power Output: 50 watts continuous from 20Hz to 20kHz. 1kHz total harmonic distortion typically 1% per channel, below 0.1% at 1 watt

Power Bandwidth: (-3dB points) 10Hz to 22kHz

Frequency Response: (-3dB points at 1 watt) 7Hz to 30kHz

Input Sensitivity: 1.25V RMS for rated output.

Input Impedance: 100K ohms Balanced, 48K ohms Single Ended

Output Polarity: Non-inverting. Balanced input pin 2+ (IEC-268)

Output Taps: 8 ohms, 4 ohms

Power Requirements: 105-130VAC 60Hz (210-250VAC 50Hz) 252 watts at rated output.

Tubes Required: 2 matched pair 6550WE; 3-6922 (1 input, 2 driver).

Dimensions: Width 16.5” (42 cm) Height 7.25” (18 cm) Depth 13.5” (34 cm)

Weight: 40 lbs (18.1 kg); 51 lbs (23.1kg) shipping weight.

I was a little surprised at how well the amp managed to keep a grip on the dynamics when playing loud.

StereoNET

Functionally simple, visually engaging and musically sublime

The I/50 Integrated Amplifier is the first product in an all-new series from Audio Research. Functionally simple, visually engaging, and musically sublime - the I/50 takes music listening to a whole new experience. Hand-crafted in Minnesota, the I/50 is built with the same attention to detail as all other Audio Research products - each one even gets its own listening test with sonic designer, Warren Gehl.

Stunning performance, beautiful finishes

Available in six colors, the I/50 features Cerakote finishes for a beautiful and long-lasting look. The modular design allows for the installation of two audio modules - a Phono Stage, and a D/A Converter (to come in 2022). The high current, 50 watt per channel amplifier is capable of driving a wide variety of speakers. A headphone jack allows for personal listening time.

The performance of the I/50 belies its compact design. Designed by the Audio Research engineering team and fine-tuned by our sonic designer, the I/50 has been given the same level of care and attention as our Reference Series products.

Easy listening

The I/50 is designed to be easy to use, and has three controls on its top panel - power, Input, and Volume. Two LexieTubes® provide display information for input selection and volume. Two matched pairs of 6550WE vacuum tubes, along with three 6922 tubes, stand in front of the perforated transformer cover. Three single-ended inputs and one XLR input provide connectivity for most systems, along with 4- and 8- Ohm speaker taps to accommodate your speaker of choice. One input can be assigned for pass-through function. A full-function metal remote control provides further functionality and operation. An optional tube cage will be available.

Who is this for?

The I/50 is purpose-built for the discerning listener who values musicality over specs-on-paper and understands that 50 watts of pure Class A vacuum tube power delivers authority that belies its modest rating. This integrated amplifier excels in small to medium-sized rooms—think 10 to 30 square metres—where it can drive moderately sensitive speakers (88dB and up) to fully satisfying levels without strain. If you're the type who sits down for intentional listening sessions rather than background music, this is your amplifier.

You're likely transitioning from solid-state electronics or entry-level tube gear and ready to experience what reference-grade tube amplification actually sounds like. The I/50 serves beautifully as the heart of a two-channel system, whether you're streaming high-resolution files, spinning vinyl through a quality turntable, or rediscovering your CD collection. With its comprehensive input selection and thoughtful feature set, it eliminates the need for a separate preamplifier while maintaining the signal purity that Audio Research is known for.

This integrated is ideal for the music lover who has reached the point where the equipment fades into the background and only the performance remains. You've assembled carefully chosen speakers, quality sources, and proper cabling—now you need an amplifier that honors those investments. The I/50 delivers the dimensional soundstaging, timbral accuracy, and emotional connection that makes long listening sessions not just possible, but irresistible.

Audio Research has a winner on its hands with the new I/50 integrated amplifier. If you've ever wondered about the sonic capability of classic thermionic power, here's a fantastic opportunity to test the tubes.

If you match it with the right speakers and also ensure quality in the rest of the signal path, the Audio Research I/50 could be one of the most successful amp buys in this price range.

I enjoyed my time with the Audio Research I/50. It is the perfect amplifier for use in a relatively small room with a high-quality source and speakers.