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Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Red October XL
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Input sensitive: 2V P-P (with 12AX7 input)
- Noise @ 300ohm/HiZ: 1.1mV RMS
- Noise @ 100ohm: 1.1mV RMS
- Noise @ 32ohm: 650 µV RMS
- Noise @ 8ohm LoZ: 530 µV RMS
- Max Power @ 8ohm: 8 watts RMS
- Max Power @ 32ohm: 6.2 watts RMS
- Bandwidth: 8hz to 24khz @ 1 watt -2db
- THD 1Watt: 0.3%
- THD 2Watt: 0.4%
- THD 3 Watt: 0.5%
- THD MAX: 0.53%
- Noise ACV: 0.105mV
- Dimensions: 13"deep x 19"wide x 10"tall
- Weight: 98lbs (126lbs shipped)
Description
The Red October Xl is one of our flagship Personal Audio Tubed Integrated Amplifiers, providing our example of true 300B DHT/SET Sound. This is a sound true to source and without the warm euphonic signature of 60s HiFi being midrange centric. It's a sound that goes back to Western Electric, where spatial cue held as much import as tone.
Red October XL leverages all we have known and learned from the Red October pushing our performance targets even further. For several years we have been quietly developing the next generation of transformers. These include new outputs, power and input transformers; each optimized to increase the performance of the Red October circuit. The new output transformers now 30watt cores specifically wound to increase interleaving couldn't fit out a Red October chassis and as such modest increases were made to accommodate these much large outputs. Additionally the chassis plate thickness was increased again to 11gage steel plate for further isolation and structural rigidity.
We redesigned out power transformers berrying the 5v filament winding closer to the core to reduce vibration or unwanted resonance. Though not changing audible performance we were able to reduce mechanical noise. The XL now utilizes our Gen 6 power supply, with even further enhancements to noise floor.
People love the 300B for its true to life vocal representation and it's sense of clarity and space, it is the ultimate Directly Heated Triode. The Red October XL incorporates this famous tube in a circuit that traces its roots back to the Agartha. However instead of a circuit board implementation, the Red October is entirely hand assembled using point to point wiring and turret board constriction. Every component is...
We redesigned out power transformers berrying the 5v filament winding closer to the core to reduce vibration or unwanted resonance. Though not changing audible performance we were able to reduce mechanical noise. The XL now utilizes our Gen 6 power supply, with even further enhancements to noise floor.
People love the 300B for its true to life vocal representation and it's sense of clarity and space, it is the ultimate Directly Heated Triode. The Red October XL incorporates this famous tube in a circuit that traces its roots back to the Agartha. However instead of a circuit board implementation, the Red October is entirely hand assembled using point to point wiring and turret board constriction. Every component is...
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Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- ampsandsound differentiates itself through its commitment to hand-built construction, using point-to-point wiring and turret boards in most models, reminiscent of classic amplifier designs.
- They specialize in custom-wound transformers, a closely guarded secret that significantly shapes the sonic characteristics and contributes to the robust power delivery and overall quality of their amplifiers.
- ampsandsound amplifiers like the Arch, Zion and Nautilus aim for exceptional linearity and low distortion, rivaling even solid-state designs, reflecting a modern take on vintage circuits.
- Their amps, like the Kenzie OG, emphasize "tube character" via a sweet, euphonic, and rich tonal quality, often without dramatically altering the downstream frequency response, creating a uniquely engaging listening experience.
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Select product comparisons
Chubby Jinx
- Positioning: The entry-level stereo amplifier in the lineup.
- Description: Offers a sweet sound with its 6V6 tubes, providing warmth and texture. Unlike the Kenzie Ovation, which focuses on low noise for headphones, this is tailored for stereo listening with a more neutral and resolving sound, making it ideal for small rooms and budget-conscious users.
Kenzie Ovation
- Positioning: A mid-range hybrid amplifier designed for both headphones and speakers.
- Description: Praised for its romantic sound and low noise, making it perfect for high-efficiency headphones. It differs from the Bryce Monos by offering a more intimate sound with less power.
Stereo 17 - Little Nugget
- Positioning: A compact stereo amplifier offering a no-compromise entry into bespoke audio.
- Description: Known for its EL84 tube bliss, provides a stable 17 watts, making it suitable for high-sensitivity speakers in small rooms. Unlike the Nautilus, which offers more power and versatility, this focuses on delivering a liquid midrange.
Nautilus
- Positioning: A flagship personal audio integrated amplifier.
- Description: Celebrated for its dual-mono layout and ultra-wide bandwidth, offering a reference-class sound. It stands out from the Arch Monos by providing a more compact solution with excellent headphone compatibility.
Bryce Monos
- Positioning: High-end single-ended amplifiers in the lineup.
- Description: Deliver ultra-wide bandwidth and high output, making them suitable for most speakers. Compared to the Arch Monos, which offer more power, these focus on single-ended purity.
Arch Monos
- Positioning: The flagship monoblock amplifiers in the lineup.
- Description: Designed for ultimate fidelity and power, with a bandwidth of 2Hz to 110kHz. They surpass the Bryce Monos in power and transparency.
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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used For Sale
4
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
187
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
30
Founding Year
2015
Our take on the brand
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
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ampsandsound
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What if you spend more?
Trafomatic
Rhapsody
24122
24122
/
4
Reviews
Rhapsody is the pinnacle of our decades of experience in developing State of the art valve amplifiers. The name itself is the expression of our devotion to the Music and the Art. By definition it implicates the profound roots and legacy to the ancient Greek Art of the rhapsodists in performing Epics, to the most modern compositions, where the one-movement work structure of highly contrasted moods, colours and tonality, is expansive and yet unified in structure. The 300B valves are a piece of great audio history that are represented in the Rhapsody in the best and most refined way. The naturalness, the drive, their tonality and rich colour pallets are unmistakable. All of those virtues are combined and moved a step further by Trafomatic dedication into the deep understanding of the cyrcuit. The result is a endlessness adventure in discovering undisclosed hidden places in your favorite recordings.
Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.
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Product Strengths
- Delivers a 'silky sheen' characteristic of SET designs, which helps to prevent listener fatigue
- Offers a 'room-filling, full-blown' sound, especially with orchestral music
- The Trafomatic Audio Rhapsody presents an 'expressive' and 'real' dynamic range, creating a live musical experience
- Has an innate sense of melody that draws you into the musical mix, and an over-arching sense of sonic accuracy
- Features auto-biasing and toggles for 'Mesh' and 'Solid' 300B tubes, for enthusiasts who wish to try different valves
Product Considerations
- Limited wattage may restrict loudspeaker choices, requiring pairing with high-sensitivity models
- Bass frequencies exhibit higher distortion at lower power outputs
- The amplifier's modest S/N ratio suggests some mild background hiss may be audible
- Bright red chassis is a fixed color scheme, which may not appeal to everyone
- Reviews of the Rhapsody should be judged as very specific amplifier/speaker combos
Takeaway: The Trafomatic Rhapsody is a class act that draws attention to itself purely through its vivid and real sound. It plays music in such a way that one might never want to listen to anything else.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Trafomatic Audio is unique for crafting its own transformers in-house, which gives them complete control over their amplifiers' sound quality. The brand stands out for using uncommon materials like Panzerholz (hyper-compressed plywood) for resonance control and rare tube types like the Elmac 250TL direct heated triode power tube in their designs.
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SW1X
AMP V Titan
22295
22295
/
1
Reviews
SW1X Audio Design creates DACs that use a non-oversampling approach and vintage TDA1541 chips with tube output stages, avoiding digital filtering to maintain a more natural, analog-like sound. Their products feature separate power supply chassis designs and harmonically matched vintage components, including directly heated triode tubes and AB resistors, which are carefully selected for their distinctive sonic qualities.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Alluring and sophisticated midrange with a tonal and textural directness
- Class-leading differentiation of dynamics and tonalities between instruments
- Engineering feat so thorough in forging a signal path of the purest as to be fanatical
- Brings a whole new level of sophistication to the art of music reproduction
- Exerts complete control of speakers with high sensitivity
Product Considerations
- The RCA jacks are closely spaced, necessitating the use of thin interconnects
- Eight watts may not be enough for speakers with lower sensitivity in larger rooms, potentially leading to dynamic compression and distortion
- Low output limits the range of suitable speakers compared to solid-state amplifiers
Takeaway: The SW1X AMP V 'Titan' Special is a handcrafted, ultra hifi amplifier from the United Kingdom, offering definitive performance, beauty of sound, and functional options. It stands apart in the field of the most exalted directly-heated triode amplifications, especially when paired with high-efficiency speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
SW1X Audio Design creates DACs that use a non-oversampling approach and vintage TDA1541 chips with tube output stages, avoiding digital filtering to maintain a more natural, analog-like sound. Their products feature separate power supply chassis designs and harmonically matched vintage components, including directly heated triode tubes and AB resistors, which are carefully selected for their distinctive sonic qualities.
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Gryphon
Diablo 333
24900
24900
/
9
Reviews
Integrated amplifiers have become the essential audio component, distilling sources, amp, preamp and interconnects into a single chassis. And since 2015, connoisseurs have revered the Gryphon Diablo 300 as the finest integrated amplifier ever produced and a genuine “Object of Desire.” Unanimously praised by critics and with thousands sold, it became High End Audio’s most coveted “Ultra-Luxe” integrated.
Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional bass control, power, speed, and definition provides a bedrock foundation for the music
- Wide and deep soundstage with precise imaging
- Dead-neutral tonal balance with grain-free clarity, effortless speed, and precision
- Life-like dynamic expression and detail resolution, sounding exquisitely lifelike
- Lively, energetic sound combined with pleasing harmonics, warmth, and a kind of lusciousness achieves a nice balance
Product Considerations
- The binding posts are located low on the rear panel, which might be problematic for some installations
- It gets hot, requiring adequate ventilation
- It's a heavy unit, making it difficult to move and set up
- The cost is very high, making it exclusive-level hifi
- The speaker spiked feet can make it difficult to position the amplifier
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Diablo 300, the Diablo 333 gives more music and musical information, developing the soundstage with harmonic information, knitting all the individual parts together; the music becomes less about individual things and more about the whole
- Strong resemblance to the Apex Commander combination, but at a fraction of the cost
- While the Antileon digs deeper and presents a fuller presentation across the low frequencies, the Diablo 333 slams harder and slightly tighter
Takeaway: The Gryphon Diablo 333 is a powerhouse integrated amplifier that combines exceptional power and control with refined sound and detailed musicality making it one of the very best amplifiers, be it integrated or not. Its versatility and musical soul make it a solid choice for anyone looking for an end-game component.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Gryphon is one of the most respected high-end amplifier brands in the world. Its bass grip is phenomenal, thanks to an unusually high level of capacitance, which keeps everything tight and controlled, even with demanding speakers. Gryphon is also known for its bold, brutalist design—a look that a lot of people love. You’ll find their gear all over Europe and Asia, and the Diablo 333 is often considered an ‘endgame’ amp by those chasing the very best sound and aesthetics.
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Burmester
032
25000
25000
/
6
Reviews
The 032 Integrated Amplifier offers a wide variety of connectivity that far exceeds the normal range of integrated amplifiers. A PRE OUT output, for example, allows the connection of a separate power amplifier or the central volume control of different listening zones within a multi-room application. With its mighty 650 VA power supply the 032 Integrated Amplifier effortlessly delivers continuous high current in order to perfectly control even large speakers with low impedance and complex loads. Excellent special resolution and musicality are the hallmarks of the 032.
Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
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Product Strengths
- Music is delivered without perturbation, showcasing a 'grip' on the music
- A beautiful sonic palette is present, with a warm, detailed bass and very smooth, detailed highs
- Understated approach to music replay is pure and precise, without coarseness or grain
- Fabulously well made, with impressive build and finish
- Volume control has a hefty, well-damped but very precise feel to it, and the amplifier's on-board software is quick to respond
Product Considerations
- The headphone output is hidden on the rear panel, making it inconvenient to connect
- Large and heavy (around 40kg), requiring sturdy equipment support and assistance when unpacking
- The combination of heatsinks all-round and reflective chrome front panel may not be to all tastes
- Highly transparent sources and speakers are required to get the best performance
Takeaway: The Burmester 032 integrated amplifier sounds exceptional with refined sound and impressive insight. If the system is talented, this amplifier could be a great match.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Burmester, a high-end audio brand renowned for its German craftsmanship, designs and handcrafts its components in Berlin. Known for its distinctive industrial aesthetic with chrome finishes, the brand supplies premium sound systems for Porsche and Mercedes-Benz.
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What competes at this price?
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ampsandsound
Nautilus
11000
/
Released
The Nautilus is one of our flagship Personal Audio Tubed Integrated Amplifier. The Nautilus Rev 2 includes 2023 tube cage. This change to the metal work allows us to delineate inclusion of the Gen 5 power supply and culmination of 2 years successive efforts to improve this amazing amplifier.
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Five individualized outputs with different impedances
- Custom wound ultra-high quality output transformers provide excellent frequency extension and a flat response
- Engaging audio components offer superior sound quality using proven theories, solid engineering, and quality manufacturing, all taking place in the USA
- Brings out the very best qualities in all of the headphones tested, providing the best presentation ever heard from the Aeolus
- Build quality is a step-up from other amplifiers
Product Considerations
- The most expensive quarter inch plugs you can get, have locks on them, which can be annoying
- Unplug headphones before switching to speaker outputs
- Weighs around 68 pounds and around 93 pounds shipped in its large pelican style case—it is heavy
- Can clip when used with speakers if pushed too hard
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Nautilus sounds better than the ZMF Pendant Headphone Tube Amplifier and the Mogwai OG Tube Amplifier in every regard
- Nautilus is even more comprehensive and expressive through the powerful, well-controlled, tonal density that is detailed and rich in nuance—it has more extension and top-notch resolution
Takeaway: The Nautilus seems to be a versatile amplifier that brings out the best in headphones and speakers. It's built with quality parts and offers a lush and detailed sound experience for audiophiles who want to enjoy music to the fullest.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
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Product Page
ampsandsound
Red October
13238
/
Released
2022
The Red October is one of our flagship Personal Audio Tubed Integrated Amplifiers, providing our example of true 300B DHT/SET Sound. This is a sound true to source and without the warm euphonic signature of 60s HiFi being midrange centric. It's a sound that goes back to Western Electric, where spatial cues held as much import as tone.
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Beautiful point-to-point and turret board construction
- True dual mono design with separate power supplies for each channel
- Offers multiple headphone impedance outputs (8, 16, 32, 100, 300 ohm) directly from transformer windings
- Tonally correct and engaging presentation with great clarity
- Can function as both a headphone and speaker amplifier
Product Considerations
- Not silent at all times, some background noise may be present
- Not suitable for super-efficient, easy-to-drive headphones due to potential background noise
- May not be ideal for driving lower efficiency speakers to concert levels without compression
- Rolling NOS output tubes can be expensive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Nautilus, Red October is more refined, with a more effortless top end and seductive mid-range
- Compared to Kenzie Ovation, Kenzie Ovation is quieter and warmer, but Red October offers more detail and seduction
Takeaway: The Red October is an engaging and tonally correct amplifier that works great for both headphones and efficient speakers. It is a top-tier product that could be the last amplifier someone needs.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
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ampsandsound
Bounty
10368
/
Released
The Bounty is our newest entry and the choice for headphone requiring total control and high output. Derived from one of ampsandsound's most popular amps and revived with all new metal chassis. The Bounty pairs brutalist design and overwhelming power to breath life into difficult headphones.
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very powerful amplifier, suitable for both speakers and headphones
- Fully balanced design for optimal audio performance
- Creates a synergistic listening experience, allowing users to get lost in the music
Product Considerations
- Can be sensitive to electrical interference, leading to potential noise issues in non-ideal setups
- Very heavy (around 45 pounds), making it difficult to move around frequently
- May produce a noticeable noise floor with more sensitive headphones
Takeaway: The Amson Sound Bounty is a powerful and well-designed amplifier that provides an immersive and enjoyable listening experience. It's especially suited for those seeking a high-performance amplifier for their speakers and power-hungry headphones.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ampandsound specializes in high-end, handcrafted tube amplifiers made in the USA. Their low-wattage amps pair perfectly with high-efficiency speakers and headphones. The company is known for classic, minimalist designs and a focus on delivering natural sound.
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Western Electric
91E
14999
/
Released
2022
Experience the 91E, a powerful classic from the makers of the original 300B. Double the performance, trouble-free, noise-free, and double the power of traditional 300B amps, made possible by patented circuit design.
Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- New patented design SCS (source current steering) allows the amplifier to have a fabulous bottom end without affecting the glorious midrange
- Proprietary noise reduction system eliminates noise that can be inherent in a single-ended design
- Circuit protects the 300Bs and keeps them in their safe operating range, so there is no chance of damaging the tube or having a shortened life
- More power from this amp than a traditional 300B, it's the difference in presentation
- It has Bluetooth, phono stage (moving coil and moving magnet), and wireless remote control
Product Considerations
- Instructions could be a little clearer about installing the 300Bs
- More warm-up is needed for each listening session than originally allowed
- The 91E was designed for operation with Western Electric manufactured 300B electron tubes
- The brands and specifications of the capacitors, resistors, transformers, internal wires, RCA jacks, switches, and binding posts are not disclosed
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs WE 91A: 91E retains what's best about the early WE 91A—its delicacy, bloom, openness, and tonal magic—and adds modern improvements
Takeaway: The Western Electric 91E is a uniquely designed amplifier providing great sound with modern features like Bluetooth and remote control, pushing what a 300B tube amplifier can achieve. It's a great option for audiophiles wanting to step up from other tube amplifier sounds.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Western Electric, one of the original developers of the 300B vacuum tube since 1938, stands out for their 91E Integrated Amplifier that delivers 20 watts per channel through their patented Steered Constant Current Source technology—significantly more power than typical single-ended triode amplifiers using 300B tubes. The brand's revival and continued production of the 300B tube have earned praise in the audiophile community, with their approach focusing on preserving classic tube sound while adding modern technological improvements.
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Jadis
I300
16900
/
Released
2022
In the world of audiophiles, there is purist group militating for simplicity in tube amplification systems focusing on the use of the tube designed in the early days of tube technology: the directly heated triodes of which the most famous is the 300B. I300 is built around a simple 300B push-pull without feedback which offers unequalled musiciality of this tube.
Jadis Electronics is renowned for their meticulous handcrafting of tube amplifiers, with a unique process of hand-winding output transformers that's integral to their signature sound. Their tube amplifiers deliver unusually high power outputs without distortion even at maximum levels, setting them apart in the tube amplifier market.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wonderful mid-band presentation that comes from the 300B tubes
- Bass is extended and controlled
- Provides detail and insight into recordings without being piercing
- Soundstaging is wide, deep, and natural sounding
- Every stage in the amplifier has its own power supply, and particular care has been taken with the 300Bs themselves
Product Considerations
- The included remote is functional, but not in keeping with the quality of the amplifier itself
- It is very heavy, weighing 40kg
- The high polished chrome and gold accents may divide opinion
- Those looking for an amplifier that is absolutely neutral in its presentation may want to listen to something else
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Merrill Thor amps, the Jadis I300, to the reviewer's ears, is a far superior amp for listening and putting a big grin on your face
Takeaway: The Jadis i300 is built superbly and delivers a balanced sound with detail and emotional connection, making it a joy to listen to. It is a refined performer across the audio spectrum and with all kinds of music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Jadis Electronics is renowned for their meticulous handcrafting of tube amplifiers, with a unique process of hand-winding output transformers that's integral to their signature sound. Their tube amplifiers deliver unusually high power outputs without distortion even at maximum levels, setting them apart in the tube amplifier market.
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