AVM30 CS 30.3 Integrated Amplifier Review: A High-End Entry-Level Audio Gem

Experience the AVM30 CS 30.3 integrated amplifier’s blend of detailed sound and versatile connectivity for unmatched musical joy.

A First Encounter with Genuine Musical Emotion

There’s something magical about finding a piece of audio equipment that truly understands music’s purpose: to bring joy and emotion into our lives. The German high-end audio brand AVM boldly states on its website:

“We believe that any kind of music, whether it be classical, jazz, or pop, has been composed to bring joy and emotion to the listener. Technical equipment such as amplifiers and loudspeakers must try to transport this joy and emotion into the living room.”

I found myself on AVM’s site after receiving their flagship streaming integrated amplifier, the CS 30.3—a powerhouse packed with a built-in CD player and phono stage. The question was simple: does it live up to AVM’s promise of delivering joy and emotion? Let me take you on the sonic journey.

The sleek design of the AVM30 AS 30.3 Integrated Amplifier with optional chrome faceplate

The Entry-Level Masterpiece That’s Anything But Basic

Hey, I’m Aaron Jenkins, your go-to guy for reviewing high-end gear that’s accessible, practical, and perfect for real-world living spaces. At $6,500—plus an extra $1,000 if you opt for the stunning Cellini chrome faceplate like I did—the CS 30.3 isn’t your typical entry-level deal. Yet, it’s the crown jewel of AVM’s 30th Anniversary entry line, which also includes:

• PAS 30.3 streaming preamplifier
• AS 30.3 streaming integrated amp (sans CD player)
• MP 30.3 media player
• CD 30.3 streaming CD player
• MA 30.3 Mk II monoblock amplifiers

Those monoblocks pack a serious punch with 300W Class A/B power, but the rest, including the CS 30.3, sport a neat 125W per channel Class D amplification. This means the amplifier stays cool and compact—measuring just 17 inches wide, 11 inches deep, and 5 inches tall, weighing only 15 pounds.

What struck me most was AVM’s craftsmanship. Each unit is handmade in Germany, with locally sourced components that uphold a commitment to perfection. The company calls these units “audiophile masterpieces,” and holding the CS 30.3, I couldn’t help but agree.

A Design and Connectivity Powerhouse

The CS 30.3’s design is pure elegance—simple, refined, and versatile. Besides the optional chrome finish on my unit, the standard options come in black or silver. The front panel features a smooth slot-loading CD player right under a crisp, large central display, flanked by two well-weighted knobs for volume and source selection. It feels solid and precise, nothing flimsy here.

The remote control echoes that same simplicity and polish, complete with little pads to prevent surface scratches—a thoughtful touch for your precious setup.

Now, onto the real magic: connectivity. The CS 30.3 is a streaming beast with wired and wireless support for Spotify, Tidal, and Qobuz, plus it can access music on local network drives. It’s Roon Ready, and also supports Bluetooth and AirPlay for seamless streaming.

Here’s a quick connectivity rundown:

• Streaming: Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, local network drives, Roon Ready, Bluetooth, AirPlay
• Digital Inputs: USB-A (for memory sticks and hard drives), coaxial, optical, HDMI ARC
• Analog Inputs: Two RCA line inputs, phono input supporting both MM and MC cartridges
• Outputs: Coaxial and optical digital outputs, plus two analog outputs (line level and preamp)

The DAC inside supports high-res formats up to 384 kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD 256. While the remote handles basic commands, the AVM RC X smartphone app unlocks advanced functions and streaming controls.

Listening Impressions: An Audio Experience Rooted in Realism

I paired the CS 30.3 with Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 stand-mount speakers and GoldenEar BRX monitors, connected via AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables and powered through a PowerQuest 505 power conditioner.

The soundstage was immediately impressive. From the delicate violin notes of Chloe Chua playing Mozart’s Violin Concertos with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra to the shimmering cymbals, each instrument had an airy, natural presence. Chloe’s violin seemed almost to float out of silence, high notes etched with exquisite delicacy and perfect decay.

What truly blew me away was the amplifier’s sense of space. The orchestra filled the room, stretching beyond the speakers, with pinpoint imaging that let me mentally “see” the bow movements of the soloist—a rare illusion reserved for only the best systems.

The dynamics were no less captivating. Jon Batiste’s rendition of the “Waldstein” sonata had a palpable physicality. Even with speakers limited in deep bass, the notes above 50 Hz were nimble, crisp, and powerful when the music demanded it. Tonally, the amplifier was neutral yet rich, gracefully fading into the background to let music breathe.

Adrianne Lenker’s “Real House” was another highlight—her voice was strikingly lifelike, capturing subtle breaths and raw emotion like never before.

The Filter Factor: From Smooth to Steep Rocking

While the CS 30.3 excelled with acoustic music, my rock-loving ears initially felt it was a touch too smooth and laid-back compared to other amps like the Naim CI Uniti 102.

Then I discovered the Filter setting in the advanced menu. Defaulted to “Smooth,” switching to “Steep” brought a noticeable change: sharper leading edges, a fuller midrange, and more drive. The soundstage tightened just a bit, trading some spaciousness for extra punch and energy.

In short: Steep rocks. It’s like flipping your car into “Sport” mode when winding through back roads. Having the ability to switch filters gives you the best of both worlds.

CD and Phono: Classic Media, Modern Excellence

Though streaming was my main mode, testing the built-in CD player was a treat. The sound was clean, clear, and quiet—though standard Red Book CDs lacked the dimensionality of hi-res streams at 96/24 or 192/24 resolutions. If you’re not attached to CDs, the AS 30.3 model without the player trims $1,000 from the price.

The phono stage surprised me most. Using a Fluance RT80 turntable ($250 entry-level), the CS 30.3 delivered a lush, full-bodied sound that belied the modest source. It hinted at even greater potential when paired with higher-end turntables.

Final Thoughts: A New Standard in High-End Audio

Just as the Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 speakers shifted my audio perspective, the AVM CS 30.3 redefined what I expect from an integrated amplifier. It raised the bar for transparency, detail, and realism in my listening room, making familiar favorites feel fresh and alive again.

This amplifier isn’t just an amp—it’s a complete music hub with streaming, DAC, CD, phono, and amplification all bundled into one elegantly designed package. If you’re hunting for a one-box, premium solution, the CS 30.3 deserves your audition.

FAQ

• What power output does the AVM CS 30.3 provide?
  It delivers 125 watts per channel using Class D amplification, balancing power with efficiency and compactness.
• Can the CS 30.3 handle high-resolution audio formats?
  Yes, it supports up to 384 kHz/32-bit PCM and DSD 256 for rich, detailed sound.
• Does it include a phono stage for vinyl lovers?
  Absolutely, it supports both MM and MC cartridges with a built-in phono input.
• Is the CD player included in all models?
  The CS 30.3 includes a CD player, but the AS 30.3 is a similar integrated amplifier without it, offering a $1,000 savings.
• What streaming services does the CS 30.3 support?
  It supports Spotify, Tidal, Qobuz, local network drives, and is Roon Ready, plus Bluetooth and AirPlay.

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