It was 2020 when Audio Group Denmark hit the scene as the steward of three then-existing high-end brands. Børresen Acoustics featured speakers, Aavik Acoustics offered electronic components, and Ansuz Acoustics handled the audiophile’s needs for cables, power products, networking devices, and sundry accessories.
Fast forward to 2024 and the company now has a fourth brand, Axxess, under its umbrella. This brand sports speakers, components, and cables that are more affordably priced than those of its sister brands.
Which brings me to the subject of this photography column, the Axxess Forté 1 streaming integrated amplifier/digital-to-analog converter, and headphone amp ($5,500). The power output is 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms. Its digital inputs are Toslink optical, BNC, S/PDIF, and USB. A pair of single-ended pre-outs, a 1/4-inch headphone jack, and speaker terminals serve as outputs. While the Forté 1’s LED screen jumbo-sized with its red letters and numbers is difficult to photograph outside of a professional photography studio, the rest of it cleans up rather nicely.
Diehard tube enthusiasts or those who might prefer a bit of euphonic distortion should look elsewhere. However, others will revel in the Forté 1’s clean and dynamic sound, which seems to be “burdened” by way too little distortion for the money. And the Forté 1 is the line’s entry-level model. Color me impressed.
The Forté 1 has an understated, clean appearance with distinctive design touches.
The Forté 1 accommodates a variety of digital sources.
The control layout is easy and intuitive.
All images courtesy of Howard Kneller. Howard’s audiophile adventures are documented on his YouTube channel, fast-growing Facebook group (both, The Listening Chair with Howard Kneller), and Instagram account (@howardkneller).
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