Mission 778S and 778X Reviewed: British Amplifier Craft for Audiophile Demands
With the 778S and 778X, Mission brings two integrated amplifiers to market that combine British engineering with modern streaming. Our listening test in Goslar-Hahnenklee shows: warm sound, precise soundstage, real character.
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 has long been known primarily for its loudspeakers — with the 700 and 778 amplifier series, Mission now proves that British sound virtues also work in integrated amplifiers: warm, musical, precise without sounding analytical.
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 analog 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 your 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 — Analog Purism
If you don't need streaming and prefer the maximum analog signal path: the 778X is the analog variant without digital inputs. Same amplifier power, same circuit topology — but uncompromisingly geared toward analog sources. Phono input (MM), four line-level inputs, preamp output for active subwoofers.
Our Listening Test in Goslar-Hahnenklee
We paired both amplifiers with Wharfedale EVO 5.1 speakers — a combination that brings the two British brands together. The result convinces: the 778S sounds warm without being flattering, the soundstage is wide and deep, voices are precisely placed in the center. Jazz, classical, and acoustic recordings especially benefit from the musical character of Mission's amplifier stage.
In direct comparison, the 778X sounds minimally tighter and more direct — those who listen to a lot of vinyl and don't need streaming should reach for the 778X. Anyone who wants flexibility without compromising sound is well served by the 778S.
Recommended Combinations
- Mission 778S + Wharfedale EVO 5.1: Classic British combo, warm and musical, for rooms up to 25 m²
- Mission 778S + Wharfedale EVO 5.3: For larger rooms, more depth
- Mission 778X + Quad Z-2: Pure analog chain, audiophile character
Prices and Availability
Mission 778S and 778X are in stock and audible at our store in Goslar-Hahnenklee. Get in touch for personal advice — we'll find the right combination for your setup.
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All Mission products at Audio Everywhere — discover them online or on-site in Goslar-Hahnenklee.