Group test: Stereo amps £300-£400

Overview Price: £370 More info: Arcam Size: 430x85x290mm Weight: 5.4kg Power output: 40W Line level inputs: 4/5 Phono stage: Optional Tape loops: 1 Tone control: Yes Headphone output: Yes

Arcam DiVA A65 Plus

Arcam's A65 Plus is the most affordable model from its range of audiophile amplifiers. It's still the most expensive amp in this group but produces a performance worthy of the price.

The design features immaculate build quality combined with the sort of understated style that separates higher-end products. Power is limited to only 40 watts per channel, but internal improvements have been made using advanced circuitry with solid state switching that offers more reliable long-term performance. A phono stage is optional and there are no multi-room functions like Rotel's RA-02 but there are defeatable tone controls, a balance control and an accompanying remote.

In action, the A65 Plus delivers a beautifully smooth and subtle performance compared to its rivals. The sound extracts plenty of precise detail and excellent instrument separation without compromising the overall presentation. And the cohesive midrange is one of the most expressive that you'll find at this price point. Only the limited power is restrictive, especially if you're using less than efficient speakers, but then this amp isn't all about oomph.

The A65 Plus isn't as authoritative as some but its strength lies in its subtlety. If you're prepared to pay a little extra, you won't be disappointed.

Verdict Plus points Immaculate construction; smooth, subtle performance Minus points Lacks a little authority; no multi-room features

Overview Price comparison: NAD C352 More info: NAD Size: 435x100x290mm Weight: 8.6kg Power output: 80W Line level inputs: 5 Phono stage: No Tape loops: 2 Tone control: Yes Headphone output: Yes

NAD C352

NAD integrated amplifiers have always combined affordability with surprising sound quality and the C352 is another case in point, offering exceptional performance for the price.

Build quality is questionable compared to the Arcam A65 and Rotel's RA-02 but the uncluttered design is attractive and the specification impressive. With 80 watts per channel there's plenty of power, assisted by NAD's own PowerDrive technology, which offers high dynamic power across varying impedances - meaning the amp is flexible with a range of different speakers. There are also tone controls (including a tone defeat function for high quality recordings) and an easy-to-use remote control - although there's no phono stage.

The dynamic performance is powerful with enough precision and clarity, especially in the midrange, to instill virtually any track with a strong sense of musicality. But what really distinguishes the C532 from its rivals is its outstanding stereo imaging, which creates an expansive soundstage with enviable depth and perspective between speakers.

For the money there are few amplifiers that can offer the same flexibility and powerful, composed performance as NAD's C352 - a definite contender for class leader.

Verdict Plus points Flexibility; powerful performance; excellent stereo imaging Minus points Build quality; no phono stage

Overview Price: £300 More info: Rega Size: n/a Weight: n/a Power output: 38W Line level inputs: 3 Phono stage: MM Tape loops: 1 Tone control: No Headphone output: No

Rega Brio

Rega is more renowned for its turntables but has made some successful ventures into other areas of hi-fi without really threatening the established big name brands.

The Brio is the most affordable amplifier here, albeit at the expense of several features. For instance, there's no remote or tone controls and inputs are limited to three sources with only a single tape loop in what is a comparatively scarce specification. However, there is a commendable moving magnet phono stage that performs better than expected. Also, the concave construction and stylish aluminum casing gives the design individuality that's sorely missing among most stereo amplifiers.

Sound performance is best described as likeable and easy to listen to without excelling in any particular area. The Brio isn't as flexible with a wide range of systems with only 38 watts per channel but with a pair of undemanding speakers the sound is smooth and stable. The midrange is reasonably open and detailed and low frequencies carry enough weight without giving the class leaders much cause for concern. But the overall performance is a sum greater than its individual parts and it's difficult not to enjoy the relaxed performance.

If you're after a simple design that sounds decent without spending too much, then Rega's Brio is an excellent alternative.

Verdict Plus points Stylish design; excellent phono stage; easy listening performance Minus points Limited specification; no remote

Overview Price: £350 More info: Rotel Size: 435x72x342mm Weight: 6.5kg Power output: 40W Line level inputs: 4 Phono stage: MM Tape loops: 1 Tone control: Yes Headphone output: Yes

Rotel RA-02

Rotel's RA-02 has been acclaimed as a class-leading amplifier since its inception nearly four years ago and time hasn't faded its reputation as one of the finest mid-priced models around.

The stylish, straight-edged design is flawlessly finished with solid controls featuring defeatable tone adjustments, switchable speaker outputs and separate tape monitoring functions. The rear panel meanwhile, is comprehensively equipped including a pair of speaker terminals that can be employed for multi-room use or bi-amping. There's also a moving magnet phono stage and intuitive system remote.

With only 40 watts per channel the sound isn't exceptionally powerful but instead delivers a clean, delicate presentation that never tires with time and actually seems to become more enjoyable every time you listen. The transparent midrange is particularly impressive with crisp, clear vocals full of natural expression that help produce a rich, open soundstage. It's a really composed sound, assisted by an energetic sense of musical timing, which never appears stretched or strained. Low frequencies are solid enough but could extend more compared to models such as NAD's C352.

Despite its prominence, the word is that the RA-02 will be replaced later this year. However, there are models still available and discounted prices to be found. If you want a full-featured, superbly performing amplifier, the RA-02 is almost a hi-fi icon.

Verdict Plus points Outstanding construction; impressive specification; composed performance Minus points Low frequencies could extend further

Final verdict As the rating scores suggest, none of these stereo amplifiers are merely average products. And if you confined your search at this price point to only these four models you wouldn't be disappointed with the ultimate improvements to your two-channel system. But there can only be one overall winner and that accolade goes to NAD's C352. It may not share the same build quality as some but its powerful performance without compromising composure and outstanding stereo imaging shaves it. That said, the Rotel RA-02 and Arcam's A65 Plus are expertly constructed and capable of superbly refined performances - and the Rotel features the most impressive specification. However, they are not as flexible as the NAD and lose points for a lack of authority. Rega's Brio is a stylish model with a slighted specification that's especially easy to listen to and one of the best budget alternatives.

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