This is a hard review to write.
After waiting almost two weeks for the first AV-525 to come in, I was excited but quickly disappointed. Only one channel worked and it was very crackly and muffled. After talking with Amazon support (which really didn't know much about audio equipment) I was quickly moved to customer service which decided to RMA it. Not only did they agree to that, But they sent me a new unit in two days. In the meantime, I did send a email to Douk audio about the issue, but they only responded 24hours and I was convinced it was a bad unit and dealt with Amazon on getting the new unit.
Douk was responsive and I let them know a new unit comping from Amazon, so they simply replied to see how it worked for me.
I got the new unit in and all I can say is WOW! Everything worked, and the tube preamp made the sound sooooo much clearer and warm. I was totally blown away. DEFINITELY worth giving this item another chance.
I responded to Douk that the new unit worked beautifully and the responded asking what I thought new features should be. I gave them a list including streaming capabilities and the ability to setup a bluetooth subwoofer, among other things.
I really feel since I got the response I got from both Amazon and Douk audio, there is more to a purchase than just the item. It was well worth the trouble and I am completely satisified with the end result.
This Amp is just amazing. Listening to some "Nothing else Matters by Metallica" as I type this.
Kudos to Amazon and Douk audio. Could I have spent over $1k on something better, yes, but for the money this is a pure joy.
If you make a few thousand of anything, there are bound to be some bad apples.
I hope this helps others when making a decision.