The Best Mini Stereo Amplifier

A new generation of inexpensive mini amplifiers has made it possible to put together a stereo speaker system for about the same price as you’d pay for a good wireless speaker. Whether you’re building a system for your desktop, den, or dorm, we think the Fosi Audio BT20A is the best way to get started in affordable stereo sound. Combined with a good set of bookshelf speakers , the BT20A can deliver sound quality that even audio enthusiasts will respect.

For those who crave affordability but fear compromise, the Fosi Audio BT20A is the ideal mini stereo amplifier, thanks to its combination of power and features. Even though it’s less than 4 inches wide, it was one of the most powerful amps we tested—powerful enough to drive large tower speakers and to play deep bass tones without strain. The BT20A includes Bluetooth support for easy wireless connection to phones and tablets, as well as bass and treble controls that let you fine-tune the sound to your liking. Standard RCA jacks and a Bluetooth/auxiliary input switch allow for simple hookup and operation. The only real downside is that it looks and feels a little cheap.

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Runner-up

Loxjie A10

Great sound, cool design

The A10 produces clean, powerful sound even through large speakers, and its design is irresistible—but it lacks features like Bluetooth and tone controls.

Buying Options

$60

* from

Amazon

*At the time of publishing, the price was $63 .

When it comes to looks, the Loxjie A10 is the most distinctive mini amp we’ve seen, especially the red version (it’s also available in black). In addition, the A10 is one of the best-performing amps we tested: It was not quite as powerful as the Fosi BT20A, but it was still able to drive large, expensive tower speakers to loud levels, and we slightly preferred the quality of its sound. Its only potential downsides are its lack of Bluetooth support and tone controls, as well as its utter inability to escape visitors’ attention.

Measuring less than 3½ inches wide and offering more features than in many high-end integrated amplifiers, all at a surprisingly low price, the Douk Audio Tone is an exceptional bargain. In our tests it didn’t sound as clear at high volume levels as our other picks, but it has enough power for a bedroom or desktop system. The features are the main attraction, as it provides Bluetooth support, RCA and 3.5 mm analog inputs, a USB digital input, a headphone jack, sturdy speaker-cable binding posts, and a cool-looking front LED power meter.