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To celebrate its 40th anniversary, German hi-fi manufacturer AVM launches a limited Bronze-Edition of its Inspiration Series in 2026.
The Bronze-Edition includes the AS 2.3 streaming amplifier and CS 2.3 all-in-one system, based on proven Inspiration 2.3-generation technology.
Both models feature AVM’s proprietary X-STREAM Engine supporting high-resolution streaming via Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, Apple AirPlay 2, and Roon Ready.
Beyond the commemorative finish, the Bronze-Edition reads as a statement about AVM’s long-term platform strategy. Rather than re-engineering the electronics, the company doubles down on the mature 2.3 architecture, which has earned a reputation for stability and low-noise operation. The in-house streaming core is key here: AVM’s software stack bypasses generic third-party modules and keeps clocking, buffering, and DAC handoff under one roof. From an audiophile perspective, this matters less for feature lists and more for jitter behavior and consistent firmware updates—areas where German manufacturers traditionally play the long game instead of chasing annual hardware refreshes.
At the analogue end, both components lean on a high-current output stage that is clearly voiced for real-world loudspeaker loads rather than headline wattage figures. Forum discussions around the standard 2.3 models often point to their ability to stay composed into complex impedance curves, suggesting generous power supply reserves and conservative thermal design. The DAC choice, while familiar on paper, is implemented with AVM’s own analogue filtering and power regulation, which tends to shape the final sonic character more than the silicon itself. High-rate DSD compatibility is less about everyday use and more about demonstrating that the digital section isn’t the bottleneck in a modern mixed-source system.
The CS variant adds an interesting layer of old-meets-new pragmatism. Including a slot-loading optical drive from a specialist supplier signals that physical media still has a place, provided the mechanism is mechanically quiet and properly isolated. HDMI audio return and a configurable phono stage underline the concept of a true system hub, not a lifestyle box but a compact control center that can anchor both vinyl rigs and living-room setups. In that sense, the Bronze-Edition feels less like a spec-driven anniversary model and more like a curated snapshot of what AVM believes a contemporary integrated component should be after four decades in the game.
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