2024 Golden Ear: CH Precision I1 (Upgraded) Integrated Amplifier

$38,000–$54,000

The I1 is a previous Golden Ear winner, but I’ve gained new appreciation for it over the past year. First, I’ve found that its nominal 100 watts/channel of horsepower, which was previously fed a diet of mostly high-efficiency speakers, has proven up to the task of driving more challenging loads like the Wilson Sasha V. Indeed, I’ve now had the opportunity to directly compare the I1’s power amp section with the higher-output CH Precision A1.5 stereo amp. While the A1.5’s extra power does come in handy in extreme situations, most of the time I actually preferred the lighter-on-its-feet I1.

But even more impressive are the changes brought by a firmware update that completely revamped the DAC module. Instantly, and at no cost or swapout hassles, the DAC vaulted from very good to the best I’ve ever heard. Of course, the I1 retains its sonic pedigree, and its modular architecture means you buy only the functions you need—choose from DAC, streamer, analog inputs, and phonostage—with the ability to expand later. Overall, the case for the I1, in terms of sonics, versatility, and longevity, has never been stronger. (346)