The S.M.S.L AD18 and SA300 have proven themselves as top-notch stereo amplifiers, furnished with outstanding technology and hardware. With the expansion of the amplifier market, these two products have steadily ascended to claim their spots as best sellers.
So which device is better between S.M.S.L AD18 vs. SA300? What are the core differences between these two devices? Which is the best for your audio system and usage purposes?
This post will give you an in-depth comparison between the two products to help you make the wisest purchase decision. Let’s check it out!
An Overview Of S.M.S.L AD18
S.M.S.L AD18 is a class D stereo amplifier produced and developed by S.M.S.L. It is one of the most compact amplifiers you can find on the market with its small size and lightweight.
The S.M.S.L AD18 is ideal for small rooms and people who carry the amp around a lot. Despite its small size, the device can deliver excellent sound quality and power. In addition, the amp is also power-efficient at an affordable price.
SMSL AD18 80W2 Bluetooth 4.2 HiFi USB DSP Digital Decoding Power Amplifier
- Great wireless connection (Bluetooth).
- High portability with lightweight and small size.
- Power-efficient.
- High-end build quality.
- Satisfying power output.
- It chips faster when delivering sound at high volume.
- The digital glare requires tonal controls.
An Overview Of SA300
The SA300 is also a class D amplifier developed by S.M.S.L. With the powerful hardware, the device can handle robust sound in high volume without any lags or sound distortions.
The selling point of this device lies in its clean and smooth design. It will surely level the visual of your home audio system with a classy black texture. The SA300 also comes with the most modern technologies at the moment.
- A compact and clean design.
- High portability, ideal for carrying around.
- Secured port connection and build quality.
- The high-end RCA output delivers excellent sound quality.
- High capacity at high volume.
- It may cause the sound to leak from the speaker.
- Noticeable whining in the coil.
The Differences Between S.M.S.L AD18 Vs. SA300
| Features | S.M.S.L AD18 | SA300 |
| Brand | S.M.S.L | S.M.S.L |
| Product type | Stereo Amplifier | Stereo Amplifier |
| Class | D | D |
| Size | 6.77 x 2.01 x 3.35 (inches) | 2.8 x 7.4 x 2.9 (inches) |
| Weight | 1.3 Pounds | 2.7 pounds |
| Digital Inputs | 3.5 mm Jack Bluetooth, Coaxial, USB, 2X Optical | Bluetooth 5.0, 1 Micro USB, and 1 Stereo RCA |
| Amplifier Power | 2 x 70W (4Ω) 2 x 40W (8Ω) | 2x80W (4Ω) 2x40W (8Ω) |
| Output | Set output port amplifier Headphone port | Speaker terminal Subwoofer output (RCA) |
| Frequency Response | 18Hz – 22kHz | Unknown |
| Power Consumption | 50W | 35W |
| Headphone Output | 32Ω 53mW | < 0.5W |
| Power Supply | 24V, 6.75A and 5.5/2.5mm Jack DC | 90dB |
Design
It is obvious that the S.M.S.L AD18 is significantly more compact and smaller than the SA300, making it an ideal device for traveling.
Furthermore, the S.M.S.L AD18 also has an additional display monitor on the front, giving a more modern appearance. Meanwhile, the SA300 features a clean and simple design, suitable for the vintage home audio systems.
Capacity And Power
Due to its smaller size and lower power, the S.M.S.L AD18 cannot deliver as robust and loud sound quality at high volume. The sound signals will get affected at higher volumes, while the SA300 can handle all volumes flawlessly.
The SA300 consumes only 35W compared to 50W in its counterpart. Therefore it is a more power-efficient amplifier. For these reasons, the SA300 is the winner regarding power efficiency and capacity.
Features
One major disadvantage of the SA300 is the lack of headphone output. But it should not be a significant inconvenience through everyday usage. The device features the RCA input, delivering smoother audio signals.
For more in-depth comparisons, consider watching the video below.
Final Verdict
To sum up, both amplifiers possess high-end technologies and great sound quality. However, if you want better performance and a bigger and more stunning design, the SA300 is the right option.
It exceeds in terms of power efficiency, capacity, and sound quality. So if you can pay a little more money, go for the SA300. I hope that you are satisfied with the information provided in this post.
