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Yongki Go, Ph.D.
The Basics:
Audia Flight, established in 1996, is an Italian manufacturer specializing in high-end audio equipment. While the brand may not enjoy the same level of recognition as mainstream audio brands in the United States, it holds a strong reputation within the European audio scene, particularly among audiophiles and enthusiasts of premium sound systems. Their products are handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail, combining sophisticated circuit design with Italian craftsmanship, which has garnered them a dedicated following in the high-fidelity audio community.
The FLS series represents Audia Flight’s latest evolution in high-end audio amplification, blending decades of engineering expertise with the refined aesthetics of their Strumento Series. The FLS9 to be reviewed here is part of this acclaimed FLS series, combining the refinement of high-end separates with the convenience of an integrated design. It is a fully balanced stereo integrated amplifier featuring a brushed aluminum chassis, OLED display, and solid aluminum remote control. Additionally, the amplifier offers modular upgrade options, including phono and DAC boards, allowing for customization to meet specific audio needs.
Figure Preview 1 – Audia Flight FLS9 integrated amplifier
The Rundown:
The Audia Flight FLS9 integrated amplifier is capable of delivering 150 W per channel into 8 ohms (290 W per channel into 4 ohms) and stable to 2 ohms. Built on the same advanced platform as the flagship FLS10, it features a fully balanced Class A input stage, a massive power supply for dynamic stability, and meticulous circuit design for ultra-low noise and distortion. The amplifier’s chassis is crafted from high-grade aluminum, featuring a large OLED display and a solid aluminum remote control, reflecting its premium build quality.
The FLS9’s modular architecture allows the addition of optional DAC and phono boards, making it adaptable for both digital and analog turntable setups. The review unit comes fully loaded with these DAC and phono boards (MSRP $12,997). The phono board retails separately for $1,499 and the DAC board for $2,499. The FLS phono board can handle both MM and MC inputs with gains of 46 dB and 66 dB, respectively. The FLS DAC board offers galvanic isolation on all its inputs (two opticals, one AES/EBU, one SPDIF, and one USB). It uses the ESS 9028 Pro DAC converter and can process PCM digital signals up to 32-bit/ 384 kHz and DSD up to DSD512.
Output power per channel Wrms:
150/290/500 (8/4/2 ohm)
Inputs:
3 unbalanced (RCA), 2 balanced (XLR)
Outputs:
1 unbalanced (RCA), 1 balanced (XLR), 1 REC unbalanced (RCA)
Gain range:
-90dB / +10dB
Frequency response (-3dB):
0.3 Hz – 500 kHz
THD:
< 0.05 %
S/N Ratio:
110 dB
Input impedance:
47 Kohm
Damping factor (on 8 ohm):
> 500
Stand-by power consumption:
less than 1 W
Power consumption (150W RMS @ 8 Ohm both channels):
650 W
Finish:
silver or black
Dimensions (W x H x D):
17.7″ x 5.9″ x 17.3″ (450 mm x 150 mm x 440 mm)
Weight:
56.2 lbs (25.5 kg)
Product Name:
FLS9
Product Type:
Integrated amplifier
MSRP:
$8,999 (without optional boards)/$12,997 (with DAC and phono boards installed)
Website:
Company:
Figure Preview 2 – Audia Flight FLS9 rear panel
The Follow-up:
The Audia Flight FLS9 integrated amplifier immediately establishes a commanding presence within my audio system. Although a thorough evaluation is still forthcoming, its remarkable control and composure in powering the connected speakers are readily apparent. Stay tuned for my upcoming review report on this amplifier.