Mission 778S and 778X Review: British Amplifier Craft for Audiophiles
The Mission 778X is the purely analogue integrated amplifier of the 778 series: 2x 85 watts into 8 ohms, phono input (MM), four line-level inputs and a preamp output for active subwoofers, with no digital inputs. In our audition in Goslar-Hahnenklee it sounds warm, precise and slightly tighter than the streaming 778S.
Mission — a brand with history
Mission was founded in Cambridge in 1977 and is one of the pioneers of British hi-fi design. The brand was long known above all for its loudspeakers — with the 700 and 778 amplifier series, Mission now proves that British sonic virtues also work in integrated amplifiers: warm, musical, precise without sounding analytical. You will find further models in our Mission products.
Mission 778S — the streaming integrated amplifier
The 778S is the streaming-capable integrated amplifier of the series. It delivers 2x 85 watts into 8 ohms and combines a fully analogue signal path with modern source options: Bluetooth aptX HD, optical and coaxial digital inputs, USB-B for PC audio, and a full phono input (MM) for the turntable.
- Output power: 2x 85W (8 ohms), 2x 130W (4 ohms)
- Inputs: 4x line-level, 1x phono MM, 1x USB-B, 1x optical, 1x coaxial
- Bluetooth: aptX HD
- Frequency response: 10 Hz to 50 kHz
- THD: below 0.003 % at rated power
Mission 778X — analogue purism
The Mission 778X is the analogue variant of the series with no digital inputs — for everyone who does not need streaming and prefers the maximum analogue signal path. It shares the amplifier power and the circuit topology with the 778S, but is uncompromisingly geared towards analogue sources. Its equipment includes a phono input (MM), four line-level inputs and a preamp output for active subwoofers.
| Feature | Mission 778S | Mission 778X |
|---|---|---|
| Output power | 2x 85 W (8 ohms), 2x 130 W (4 ohms) | identical (same amplifier power) |
| Line-level inputs | 4 | 4 |
| Phono input | MM | MM |
| Digital inputs | USB-B, optical, coaxial | none (purely analogue signal path) |
| Bluetooth | aptX HD | — |
| Highlight | frequency response 10 Hz to 50 kHz, THD below 0.003 % | preamp output for active subwoofers |
| Sonic impression in the audition | warm, wide and deep soundstage | slightly tighter and more direct |
Our audition in Goslar-Hahnenklee
We paired both amplifiers with Wharfedale EVO 5.1 loudspeakers — a combination that brings both British brands together. The result is convincing: the 778S sounds warm without flattering, the soundstage is wide and deep, voices sit precisely in the centre. Jazz, classical and acoustic recordings benefit especially from the musical sonic character of the Mission amplifier stage.
In direct comparison the 778X sounds slightly tighter and more direct — those who listen to a lot of vinyl and have no need for streaming will reach for the 778X. Those who want flexibility without sonic compromises are well served by the 778S.
Recommended combinations
- Mission 778S + Wharfedale EVO 5.1: Classic British combination, warm and musical, for rooms up to 25 sqm
- Mission 778S + Wharfedale EVO 5.3: For larger rooms, more depth
- Mission 778X + Quad Z-2: Purist analogue chain, audiophile character
Prices and availability
Mission 778S and 778X are in stock and available to audition at our shop in Goslar-Hahnenklee. Get in touch for personal advice — we will find the right combination for your setup.
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Sources & further links
All Mission products at Audio Everywhere (a hi-fi specialist shop in Goslar-Hahnenklee, Germany) — discover them online or on site.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the Mission 778S and the 778X?
The 778S is the streaming-capable integrated amplifier with Bluetooth aptX HD, USB-B as well as optical and coaxial digital inputs. The 778X does without digital inputs entirely and relies on a purely analogue signal path. Amplifier power and circuit topology are identical: 2x 85 watts into 8 ohms and 2x 130 watts into 4 ohms respectively.
Who is the Mission 778X for?
The 778X is the right choice for everyone who listens to a lot of vinyl and has no need for streaming. It offers a phono input (MM), four line-level inputs and a preamp output for active subwoofers. In our audition at Audio Everywhere in Goslar-Hahnenklee it sounded slightly tighter and more direct than the 778S.
Does the Mission 778S have a phono input?
Yes, both models have a full phono input for MM cartridges. The 778S additionally offers four line-level inputs, USB-B for PC audio as well as optical and coaxial digital inputs. The 778X combines the phono input with four line-level inputs and a preamp output for active subwoofers.
Can I audition the Mission 778S and 778X before buying?
Yes, both amplifiers are in stock and available to audition at Audio Everywhere in Goslar-Hahnenklee. We advise you personally and find the right combination for your setup – for example with Wharfedale loudspeakers, which we paired directly with both models in our audition.