Advance Paris MyConnect 250 All-in-One System

The Advance Paris MyConnect 250 sits at the top of the French manufacturer’s MyConnect range, a series of all-in-one systems designed for listeners who want serious audio performance without filling a room with separate components. It builds on the MyConnect 150 with substantially more power, a dual-mono power supply, and a wider array of analogue and digital connections.

Amplification & Power Supply

At the heart of the MyConnect 250 is a Class A/B amplifier delivering 2 × 190W RMS into 8Ω or 2 × 280W RMS into 4Ω, powered by a dual-mono topology employing two toroidal transformers. The preamplifier stage uses valves, visible through a central window on the front panel, adding warmth and musicality before the signal reaches the solid-state output stage. The unit achieves a signal-to-noise ratio of 103 dB, total harmonic distortion below 0.007%, and channel separation exceeding 75 dB across a frequency response of 20Hz to 80kHz.

Sources & Streaming

The MyConnect 250 integrates a CD player, DAB+ and FM radio tuner, and a network streamer accessible via the Advance PlayStream app. Streaming services include Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Tidal, Deezer, and vTuner internet radio. Network connectivity is provided via both Ethernet and Wi-Fi, with Bluetooth available as an optional add-on via the X-FTB01 or X-FTB02 module.

Connectivity

The rear panel is densely populated with connections. Digital inputs include HDMI Audio In, HDMI ARC, three optical, three coaxial, AES/EBU, and a USB-B input for use as an external DAC (using a Burr-Brown PCM1796 converter). Analogue inputs comprise two balanced XLR pairs, five RCA pairs, a dedicated Amp In RCA input, and a phono stage supporting MM, high-level MC, and low-level MC cartridges. Outputs include balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA pre-outs, a record output, and two subwoofer outputs with variable crossover. Three sets of speaker terminals allow configuration of up to three independent speaker zones (A, B, and C), and two 6.35mm headphone outputs are provided on the front panel.

Design

The gloss black front panel features two illuminated blue VU meters flanking a central viewing window that showcases the preamplifier valves. Two machined aluminium rotary encoders control source selection and volume, with a row of aluminium buttons for CD transport and menu navigation. The CD tray is centrally located beneath the valve window. The unit measures 430 × 195 × 455 mm and weighs 19 kg.