Micromega AS-400 - Silver, 2011

Micromega, a French hi-fi brand founded in 1987 by Daniel Schar, emerged from Paris with a bold focus on innovation during the digital audio revolution. Its early triumphs included the top-loading CD-F1 player and the pioneering separate transport-DAC CD setup, alongside collaborations like the acclaimed LEEDH speakers by Gilles Milot and the enduring Epure turntable by Pierre Riffaud. Acquired and revitalized by Didier Hamdi around 2007, the company upholds its heritage of in-house French design and manufacture, guided by the mantra of sound purity.

The brand excels in compact, technology-driven categories such as integrated amplifiers, CD players, preamps, power amps, DACs, streamers, and turntables. Standouts include the M-One series flagship M-150 amplifier with 150W Class-AB power, AK4490 DAC, and proprietary M.A.R.S. room correction; the ultra-compact MyAmp; and modern all-in-one solutions like the M100 streamer-DAC-amp with phono input. Past lines like AirDream and MO emphasized accessible high-performance digital and analog sources.

Micromega occupies a niche boutique position in the mid-to-high-end market, prized by discerning buyers for its forward-thinking engineering and value-driven pricing—from under €500 for entry-level amps to around $7,500 for flagships. Longevity since the 1980s earns it respect among vintage enthusiasts, while recent UK returns via Absolute Sounds affirm its cult following, though sparse warranty data tempers expectations for some.