SPEC RSA-M99 integrated amplifier – SPECtacular

For whom

In this price range, you’re looking for something unique. Something that deviates from the norm. And that’s the least you can say about this SPEC RSA-M99 amplifier. Not only in looks but also in sound. This amplifier is for someone who already has some experience and is looking for something special. Someone who is looking for a sound without compromises. Time after time this amplifier delivers and pushes the limits of our speakers. It is also an amplifier for the unbiased listener. A seasoned audiophile, so to speak. Although Class D has come of age, true gems are rare. The SPEC RSA-M99 undoubtedly belongs to a select club of truly magnificent class D amplifiers.

Compare

We compare the SPEC RSA-M99 to our Moon 600i V2 integrated amplifier that is in the same price range. The American is built sleeker than its Japanese counterpart and delivers 2×125 watts in the more traditional Class A/B versus the SPEC’s 2×60 watts in Class D. The Moon can serve as a preamplifier, the SPEC as a power amplifier. The Japanese has two XLR inputs, the American only one. The Moon has a screen and the SPEC does not. So much for the differences in terms of functionality.

It gets more interesting when we listen. The SPEC is clearly the more transparent of the two. Not that you hear more details, you just hear them more easily. Micro details emerge to the surface making this amplifier a real resolution monster. In the lower regions, the differences are also clear. The SPEC pours just a little more sublow out of certain recordings. Make sure to combine the SPEC with an appropriate speaker so it does not become “too much of a good thing. Furthermore, the Moon is more relaxed, slightly rounder but at the same time nicely balanced. The SPEC is a little faster, a little leaner (not analytical or bright) in the midrange and even more 3D than the Moon.