Archive for April, 2011
Cyrus 8 XP Review
Cyrus 8 XP
Price £1250
Rating 9.8/10
The Cyrus 8 XP here is the more powerful version of the highly rated 6 XP. Being middle of the road the 8 XP lacks only the built in DAC of the top of the range 8 XPd. It manages to match the 8 XPd on sound quality in every sense. The dynamics are an absolute joy but where the 8 XP excels is in its transparency and detail. The precision which the 8 XP delivers is astonishing; there are few that can compete with the Cyrus at any level. Focus is amazing, and the precision of delivery is such that it has very few rivals. The delicacy of the top end is faultless, being both articulate and sparkling. It delivers music with subtlety and accuracy.
Upgrading has always been a hallmark of Cyrus and the 8XP in no exception with the addition the PSX-R power supply enables a significant upgrade. Also an 8XPD upgrade has a digital card allowing 5 digital inputs and USB socket.
Weaknesses are proving very tricky to unearth, and all that can be said is that some more expensive amps deliver slightly more deep bass but the Cyrus has more control. Apart from minor criticisms that Cyrus is a incredibly accomplished amp, and the options of future upgrades are a definite bonus.
It would seem that Cyrus cannot put a foot wrong lately, and everything they design turns to gold.
Specifications
Integrated Yes
Power output (watts) 70
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 7x22x36
Finishes 2
Speaker outputs 1
Remote control Yes
USB in No
Preamp out Yes
Tone controls No
Tape loops 1
MC phono in 0
Headphone out Yes
MM phono in No
Line level in 6
Cyrus 6 XP Review
Cyrus 6 XP
Price £925
Rating 9.7/10
Anything that emerges from Cyrus automatically deserves attention. Sporting the now familiar Cyrus design blueprint, the appearance of the Cyrus 6 XP is reassuringly familiar. The dimensions and appearance of the Cyrus range has always been different to all other Hi Fi and conforms only to the Cyrus blueprint. Cyrus has also been known for its excellent sound quality over the years and the 6 XP definitely keeps up that tradition. Furthermore in keeping with Cyrus philosophy the 6 XP offers a unique upgrade path. Its purchase will ensure that in future it can be upgraded to the 8 XP which enables an increase in output from 40W to 70W, in addition the PSX-R enables a further upgrade. Finally an 8 XPD upgrade has a digital card allowing 5 digital inputs and USB socket.
As purchased, the Cyrus 6 XP performs extremely well in its basic form. Dynamics are extremely impressive and normally associated with amp of much higher output. The top end definitely sparkles whilst the midrange is explicit and open. Rhythm is delightful with control in the bass that few can master. Detail on the Cyrus is explicit with leading edges that are incredibly realistic. The dynamics and scale are reminiscent of much more powerful amps. Lower frequencies are deep, assured and controlled.
The drawbacks are few; you could say that 40W output is meagre until you listen. Speakers that are bright are best avoided.
Apart from minor criticisms that Cyrus is a remarkably accomplished amp, and the options of future upgrades are a definite bonus.
Specifications
Integrated Yes
Power output 40 Watts
Dimensions (hwd, cm) 7 x 22 x 36
Finishes 2
Speaker outputs 2
Remote control Yes
USB in No
Preamp out Yes
Tone controls No
Tape loops 1
MC phono in 0
Headphone out Yes
Line level in 6
