Mission 778X Integrated Amplifier Review – HiFiReport
There was a time when half-width speakers, smaller than standard hi-fi speakers, were popular in most homes.
As the audio industry evolves, brands seem to be participating in an arms race, always pursuing bigger and heavier products.
However, in an ordinary family, listening to music in small rooms, studies, or bedrooms, such large and heavy equipment is not necessary.
A small integrated amplifier, paired with a bookshelf or small floor-standing speakers, can create a simple system that brings great pleasure.
Continuing the Legacy of Mission 770 and Mission 700: Another Tribute to the Classics
Is this relaxing lifestyle a part of your daily life? The newly launched Mission 778X is designed to deliver this kind of relaxed music entertainment.
Founded in 1977, Mission introduced the classic Mission 770 and 700 bookshelf speakers in its debut, models that are still sought after today.
Recently, Mission has re-released these iconic vintage speakers, quenching the thirst of many audiophiles.
While keeping the old classic look, they combine new technology and materials, resulting in better performance.
Many who have experienced the new Mission 770 and 700 have been deeply impressed with their sound quality.
However, they have many stories to tell.
The protagonist of this story is the 778X integrated amplifier.
At the time, Mission believed that most amplifiers on the market focused only on power output, when in fact, it was the current that drove the speakers.
So, they introduced their amplifier, the 778.
With its compact size, it delivered a powerful 25W into 8 ohms and 40W into 4 ohms, combined with an affordable price, it achieved great market success and earned the moniker “Giant Killer.”
Later, Mission spun off its amplifier business, merging it with Cyrus, and the Mission brand focused on speaker manufacturing.
Later, due to Koresi’s breakup with Mission, Mission completely stopped producing loudspeakers.
After more than 30 years, the arrival of the Mission 778X not only pays homage to the 1980s but also marks the reopening of Mission’s journey into product categories other than speakers.
Feature-Rich and Well-Equipped
Visually, the 778X retains the essence of the original 778.
It features a narrow but increased width, with large and prominent round knots, now evenly spaced. The white Mission logo printed on the black top cover is another retro element.
While the retro aesthetic evokes desire, performance and functionality is where its true value lies.
The Mission 778X delivers an output power of 45W into 8 ohms and 65W into 4 ohms. Although these calculations may not seem unusual on paper, the assumed performance is greater than the specification, as I will explain later.
Rich features highlight the 778X. It includes a built-in MM phono stage, USB DAC, headphone output, and a Bluetooth receiver module.
Buying a single unit eliminates the need for a separate phono preamp, DAC, and headphone amplifier.
You might argue that the all-encompassing design compromises the quality of the part. Not immediately. Take a closer look at its design.
JFET Phono Stage and High Performance USB DAC
Its phono stage uses a JFET-based amplification circuit, known for its low noise characteristics, and includes an accurate RIAA calibration circuit. The manufacturer confidently states that you don’t just need to buy an external phono stage.
For digital encoding, the 778X is equipped with an ESS ES9018K2M DAC chip, which supports recording up to PCM 384kHz and DSD256.
Digital inputs include two optical inputs, one RCA coaxial, and one USB type B input.
Without connecting CD players and set top boxes, simply plugging in a computer, music server, or USB streaming device lets you enjoy streaming audio.
In addition, with Bluetooth transmission that supports aptX, it becomes even easier. Once paired with your smartphone, your phone becomes your music source.
Built-in Headphone Amplifier and Preamp Output
In addition, the front panel of the 778X features a 6.3mm headphone output. Is this just a useful feature? The manufacturer insists that this headphone amplifier circuit has a high kill rate and fast response speed. Their purpose is to create a headphone amplifier circuit comparable to standalone amplifiers.
The 778X also provides a set of preamp effects. With future system upgrades, there is no need to replace the entire unit. Use the output of the preamp to connect an external power amplifier, even allowing bi-amping configuration.
Two sets of analog inputs are provided, which may seem limited. However, considering its many digital inputs and phono inputs, it’s more than enough.
What I find somewhat confusing is the inclusion of both coaxial and optical digital outputs. What are these for? Can anyone enlighten me? Given the product’s positioning and intended use cases, is there a real need to go digital?
Intuitive operation and ease of use
Two knobs adorn the front panel: the one for selecting the source input, and the one on the right for volume control.
The knobs provide clear protection and subtle tactile feedback when rotated, providing a pleasant feel.
The device is also environmentally conscious. If no signal input is received for more than 20 minutes, the 778X automatically enters standby mode, perfect for those who sleep listening to music.
Internal protection circuits are present. In the event of an overload, the amplifier will automatically enter protection mode to prevent damage. Just restart it to resume operation.
A lightweight remote control is included, which allows volume adjustment, input switching, power on/off, and mute control.
Personally, I still prefer the tactile experience of turning knobs by hand – the feel is great.
Warm and Full-bodied Sound, Musical Entertainment Guaranteed
Priced at $1048 USD (originally $1170 USD), where does the Mission 778X rank in the low-cost integrated amplifier market? Just an estimate? Is the sound quality just so-so? It’s wrong. If that’s what you think, you’re wrong.
Its performance exceeded my expectations, far exceeded.
Its driving force is better than expected. When paired with the JMR Abscisse Jubile speakers in a room of about 25 square meters, it can put out a lot of power, filling the space with sound while clearly delivering the music stage, detail, and texture.
In terms of tonal character, the Mission 778X leans slightly towards warmth, creating a pleasant and comfortable listening experience.
Clear Sound Stage, Bright Design, Highly Engaging
Listening to Anne-Sophie Mutter’s “Across the Stars,” the violin lines are clear and have a healthy fullness. The texture detail of the bow hairs against the strings during bowing is clear and natural, creating a very engaging sonic image.
The balance between the orchestra and the solo violin is well maintained, and the overall sonic balance during the performance of the music is admirable.
The sound stage and stage production are also impressive. The positions of each section of the instruments are clearly defined. When the cymbals, brass, and harp enter, it immediately creates a sense of sound stage depth.
Controlled Bass with low end adjustment
Its bass performance is also impressive, characterized by controlled low frequencies that do not explode or swell.
He listened to Markus Philippe’s album “Saxnbass”, the extracted notes of the double bass are round and unique, with a clear sound from the vibration of the string. These sonic details are clearly heard, not obscured by too much bass.
When the saxophone plays, the rough texture of the air friction against the wall of the copper tube is clearly expressed. Its excellent sonic richness, combined with ample detail, makes the tenor saxophone sound absolutely captivating.
Voice Translation: Tight Suit
Thanks to its rich and clear details, accompanied by a warm and full-bodied sound, sound reproduction is undoubtedly the strength of the 778X.
Listening to Eivør’s album “Eivør Live”, in the song “Where Are the Angels,” the guitar notes are soft and clear, with a great sound.
The characteristics of Eivør’s voice and the nuances of the singing style are clearly reproduced.
Not only is the pronunciation and sound of the voice clear, but the sound of his nasal tones is also clearly presented.
Headphone Output: Surprisingly Capable, Not Just Hype
For headphone output, the 778X has plenty of power.
Its background is quiet, with no hum or hiss, allowing the details of the music to emerge easily.
Rich detail retrieval easily reveals subtle sounds within various recordings.
Despite the abundance of details, the sound remains comfortable and tireless.
In addition, the drum sounds are strong and impactful, bringing the feeling of beating. When you play pop and rock music, the rhythmic drive is more prominent.
The Mission’s claims are indeed true.
Amazingly Good Sound Quality
Don’t think it’s hard to find an affordable hi-fi. The Mission 778X is not only affordable but also feature-rich, serving as multiple devices in one place.
Combined with a brand history spanning almost a century, it is worthy of trust.
Its compact half-width chassis does not take up much space at home.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Mission 778X is an exceptional choice.
Don’t underestimate it because of its price. Its performance will exceed your expectations, just as it exceeded mine.
Details
* Type: Integrated Amplifier
* Analog Inputs: RCA x2, MM Phono (RCA) x1
* Analog Output: RCA Preamp Output x1
* Digital Inputs: Coaxial x1, Optical x2, USB Type-B x1, Bluetooth (aptX)
* Digital Outputs: Coaxial x1, Optical x1
* Output Power: 45W @ 8ohm, 65W @ 4ohm
* Frequency Response: 20Hz-20kHz (+/-0.5dB)
* Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.01% * Isilinganiso Sokusuka Kumsindo: >108dB
* Built-in DAC: ESS Saber32 ES9018K2M
* Maximum recording support: PCM 32bit/384kHz, DSD 256
* Dimensions: 235 x 95 x 380 mm (W x H x D)
Weight: 6.6kg
