Musical Fidelity B1 xi Integrated Amplifier - Black

A Classic Reborn, With Flagship DNA

An integrated amplifier is the heart of a stereo system. It takes the signal from your sources — turntable, CD player, streamer, even your phone — and boosts it so your speakers can fill the room. One box holds the preamp and power amp, so setup stays simple.

The Musical Fidelity B1xi is a modern take on the original B1, an amplifier that helped build the brand's reputation back in the 1980s. It uses a fully discrete, Class A/B power amp design in the Musical Fidelity tradition, with technology drawn from the company's flagship models.

That design delivers 60 watts per channel into 8 ohms and 100 watts into 4 ohms, with peaks to 140 watts into 2 ohms. That's plenty of power for bookshelf speakers and most smaller floorstanders.

Modern Connectivity, Flagship-Level Engineering

Unlike its bigger siblings, the B1xi includes Bluetooth 5.1, so you can stream music wirelessly from your phone, tablet, or computer. A built-in ESS9018 DAC feeds optical, coaxial, and HDMI ARC digital inputs, all supporting audio up to 24-bit/192kHz.

A built-in MM phono stage handles most turntables directly, no separate phono preamp needed. Inside, dedicated linear power supplies for the preamp and power stages, isolated analog and digital circuit boards, and a large toroidal transformer keep noise low. A motorized volume knob and extruded aluminum front panel round out the package.

What Reviewers Are Saying

David Price of StereoNET awarded the B1xi 8.5 out of 10 and a StereoNET Applause Award, praising its "fulsome bass that's enjoyably fluid and supple" and calling it "very well made, considering its modest price." Harry McKerrell of What Hi-Fi? found it a "punchy, muscular amplifier" with a "bold, assertive sound," though he noted it lacks the last bit of detail and drama of pricier rivals.

Who Is This Amplifier Best For?

• You want real Musical Fidelity heritage at an approachable price — the B1xi revives a classic amp with modern engineering.
• You want Bluetooth streaming built in — unlike the larger M5xi and M6xi, the B1xi adds wireless convenience.
• You run bookshelf speakers or smaller floorstanders — 60 watts into 8 ohms suits these well, but isn't meant for large, power-hungry speakers.
• You want a built-in phono stage for a turntable with a standard MM cartridge.
• If you want MM/MC switching or more power, Musical Fidelity's M5xi and M6xi share the same design philosophy at a higher tier.

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Three stereo RCA inputs and one MM phono input handle your analog sources — no separate phono preamp needed for most turntables.

Optical, coaxial, and HDMI ARC inputs feed the built-in DAC, and Bluetooth 5.1 covers wireless streaming.

On the output side, you get a preamp output (usable for bi-amping or a powered subwoofer), one pair of speaker binding posts, and a 5V USB-C power output for an external streamer.

Pairs Well With

Building your system? Here are some great companions for the B1xi:

• Speakers: This amp is happiest with efficient bookshelf speakers or smaller floorstanders. Browse our Bookshelf Speakers or Floorstanding Speakers.
• Turntable: The built-in phono stage means you can connect a turntable directly — see our Turntables.
• Cables: Good cables matter at this level. Browse our Speaker Cables and Interconnects.
• Audio Stand: At 16 lbs, the B1xi fits neatly on a shelf or stand — see our Audio Racks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the B1xi have a built-in phono stage?

Yes — a built-in MM phono input handles most turntables directly, no separate phono preamp required.

Does it have Bluetooth?

Yes, Bluetooth 5.1 — unlike Musical Fidelity's larger M5xi and M6xi, which skip wireless streaming.

What's the difference between HDMI ARC and HDMI eARC?

ARC handles standard-quality TV audio, which covers most soundbars and TV setups. eARC (found on the M5xi and M6xi) supports higher-resolution formats.

Can it drive large or power-hungry speakers?

It's best suited to bookshelf speakers or smaller floorstanders. For large or power-hungry speakers, consider the M5xi or M6xi.

What's the story behind the B1 name?

The original B1 was a well-loved Musical Fidelity amplifier from the 1980s. The B1xi is a modern update, built with flagship-derived technology.

What finish is available?

The B1xi comes in black.

See It in Action

A British Audiophile reviews the B1xi's sound, features, and value:

Steve Guttenberg (Audiophiliac) shares his hands-on impressions of the B1xi:

Why Audio Advisor?

• 40+ Years of Expertise — Since 1981, we've helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.
• 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it's right for you.
• Real Experts, Real Help — Our team is here to answer your questions at 800-942-0220, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.
• Free Shipping — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.
• Flexible Payment Options — Financing available so you can start listening now.

Learn More

Want to learn more about preamplifiers, phono stages, or building a two-channel system? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.