This Stereo Amplifier Is a “Just Add Speakers” Hub for Entry-Level Hi-Fi Systems

The American audio company has unveiled a “no fuss” stereo amplifier for modern hi-fi systems.

Black MOTIV BasX audio amplifier with digital display showing "ANALOG 1" next to a tall black speaker.Emotiva

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In December, Emotiva introduced its most high-end pair of loudspeakers to date: the Nostala LB12. The high-end floorstanding speakers have a 3-way design and a gorgeous, furniture-grade walnut veneer. A set costs $3,000.

Now, the Tennessee-based audio manufacturer is going in a different direction with its latest release. The BasX TA2+ is a “no fuss” stereo amplifier designed to be the hub of an entry-level hi-fi system.

Emotiva BasX TA2+

Black Emotiva TA2 audio amplifier with blue digital display showing "BT" and headphone jack on front panel.
The second-generation amplifier adds modern connections that allow you to hook up a TV or computer.
Emotiva

Compatible with turntables, computers and TVs

Emotiva’s BasX TA2+ is a stereo integrated amplifier that acts as the control center of your home’s two-channel (or 2.1-channel) hi-fi system. It’s the next-generation of the company’s BasX TA2, which was released in early 2023.

Like its predecessor, the BasX TA2+ is an extremely versatile hi-fi component that packs an amplifier, preamplifier, DAC and tuner into a bespoke black box. The first- and second-gen components are basically identical.

Black Emotiva audio receiver with a blue digital display showing "HDMI ARC" and a large volume knob.
Unlike its predecessor, the BasX TA2+ can function as the hub of your home’s home theater system.
Emotiva

The primary difference with BasX TA2+ is that it adds way more modern connections. It adds balanced XLR analog inputs and outputs, promising cleaner audio transmission. It adds a balanced subwoofer output, as well.

Most significantly, Emotiva has given the BasX TA2+ inputs for HDMI Arc and USB-C. This means that, unlike its predecessor, the BasX TA2+ can be connected to your TV, computer or tablet, making it way more flexible.

Close-up of digital input ports on a black electronic device, including HDMI ARC, USB-C, and coaxial connectors.
Digital inputs for HDMI Arc and USB-C are the most significant additions.
Emotiva

The heart of your home’s stereo system

Like its predecessor, the BasX TA2+ supports Bluetooth streaming and features a switchable phono preamplifier that supports turntables with either MM and MC cartridges.

As for power, not much has changed with the BasX TA2+. It’s still a traditional Class AB amplifier powered by a toroidal linear power supply. And it can deliver 135 watts (into 8 ohms) or 250 watts (into 4 ohms) per channel, thus allowing it to drive a wide variety of loudspeakers.

Rear view of a black Emotiva BasX TA2 stereo integrated amplifier showing multiple digital, analog, sub, pre, and speaker output ports with a power switch and antenna.
The versatile amplifier can handle a wide range of analog and digital inputs and outputs.
Emotiva

“The BasX TA2+ is the heart and soul of a high-performance stereo system,” says Dan Laufman, Emotiva president, in the company’s press release.

“We designed it to be a simple, robust solution for anyone who is ready to improve their listening experience with the utmost flexibility, no matter what sources are connected.”

Black Emotiva audio amplifier with digital display reading "ANALOG 1" next to a tall black speaker with multiple drivers.
The Emotiva BasX TA2+ integrated amplifier comes in one finish: black.
Emotiva

Availability and pricing

The Emotiva BasX TA2+ integrated amplifier is available now. It costs $1,299, making it $200 more expensive than its predecessor (which is now being discontinued).

For those looking for a deal, the previous amplifier, the BasX TA2, is currently on sale for $999.

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