Tube Power Amp Reviews

Sidebar 1: Specifications

Description: Mono tube amplifier with self-regulating autobias pentode circuit, class-A (low power) and class-A/AB (high power) modes, Eco Mode, touchscreen control. Requires 20A power cord. Output tubes: (6×) matched KT120 per amp (KT150 or KT170 optional). Input tubes: (2x) 12AU7, (1x) 12BH7. Inputs: One XLR (balanced), 1 RCA (single-ended). Outputs: One pair binding posts. Power output: 160W class-A (22dBW into 8 ohms), 280W high power A/AB mode (24.5dBW into 8 ohms). THD: 0.1% at 10W into 4 ohms. Frequency range: 15Hz–80kHz. Input sensitivity: 1V RMS low power/1.3V RMS high power for rated output. Gain: 29dB balanced or single-ended inputs. Input impedance: 15k ohms balanced, 25k ohms single-ended. Output polarity: Noninverting. Output impedance: 1 ohm. Damping factor: 4 ref. 5 ohms. Signal/noise ratio: 103dB ref. Max Power, Single Ended and Balanced in class-A low power mode. Power requirements: 550/800W max per amp at rated output (power L/H), 40W in Eco Mode.
Dimensions: 9.5" (240mm) W × 16.6" (420mm) D × 25.2" (640mm) H. Weight: 143lb (53.5kg).
Finish: Natural silver or black with wood or slate trim options.
Serial numbers of units reviewed: 72519926, 72519927 (auditioned); 72519930 (measured). Designed and built in Karlsbad, Germany.
Price: $85,000/pair. Approximate number of US dealers: 8. Warranty: 5 years on product, 1 year on tubes.
Manufacturer: Octave Audio, Reutaeckerstrasse 5, Karlsbad 76307, Germany. Tel: +49 7248 3278. Web: octave.de. US distributor: Dynaudio North America, Inc., 500 Lindberg Ln., Northbrook, IL 60062, USA. Tel: +1 (847) 730-8230.