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.
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality, indicated by its substantial 18kg weight and 5mm aluminum face panel
- Versatile tube compatibility, compatible with 6550, KT88, KT120, and KT150 tubes
- Zero feedback design ensures a pure signal path
- Stunning analog VU meters
Product Considerations
- 25W output might not suit all speaker choices
- Premium price point
- Requires regular tube maintenance
- Size may challenge some rack spaces
Takeaway: The Lab 12 Suono is a well-engineered tube amplifier that offers a blend of classic warmth and modern precision. Its exceptional build and engaging sound make it a worthwhile investment for music lovers.
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Suono MK2
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Manufacturer details
- Power: 230VAC 50Hz (115VAC 60Hz)
- Power consumption: 350 VA max
- Output power: 25 Watt per channel (KT150)
- Frequency response: 20 Hz-25 KHz (-0.9dB)
- Input impedance: 100K ohm
- Recommended speakers: 4-8 ohm
- Tube complement: 2x 6n2p dual triodes, 2x KT120/KT150 Power Pentodes
- Input sensitivity: 600mV triode mode / 700mV Ultra Linear mode
- Inputs: 1x line stereo (RCA connectors)
- Available Colours: Matt Black, Frozen silver
- Dimensions (WxHxD): 43x19x29 cm
- Weight: 19Kg
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:
- Lab 12 emphasizes a "fine symmetry design," which focuses on technical symmetry and parts matching between the two channels, leading to sharper image focus and superior transparency.
- The brand's designs are focused on optimizing the listening experience, prioritizing a natural and involving sound that avoids analytical or clinical qualities.
- Lab 12 uses a "separate rails, separate grounds" (SRSG) technology to keep high current circuits independent from signal circuits to minimize noise and maintain signal purity.
- They implement fully tube-based designs in many products while keeping the build quality high and the pricing relatively accessible within the high-end audio market.
Select products
SUONO MK2 – TOROID VERSION
- Positioning: A compact tube amplifier designed for smaller spaces and budget-minded buyers.
- Description: Features a low-noise toroidal transformer with bias adjustment directly on the top cover, ensuring a focused, intimate listening experience. Compared to higher-powered models like Suara and Integre4, it offers lower wattage and simplicity for those seeking warmth and ease of use in a modest room.
SUARA MK2 – TOROID VERSION
- Positioning: A mid-level, pure Class A power amplifier delivering robust performance.
- Description: Uses a true dual mono design with heavy toroidal transformers and selectable Triode/Ultra Linear modes for flexible tube rolling. In contrast to SUONO's modest output and Integre4's integrated functionality, it provides higher power for larger rooms while focusing exclusively on pure amplification.
INTEGRE4 MK2 – TOROID VERSION
- Positioning: A high-end integrated tube amplifier featuring advanced control and performance.
- Description: Offers independent dual mono channels with dedicated toroidal transformers and an innovative built-in bias system featuring an OLED display for instant tube rolling adjustments. When compared to SUONO and Suara, it delivers elevated wattage and superior control.
MIGHTY
- Positioning: A premium Class A, single-ended power amplifier aimed at delivering immersive, detailed sound.
- Description: Uses meticulously selected audiophile grade components and a pure Class A design that minimizes noise and distortion for fatigue-free listening. Compared to integrated solutions like Integre4 and passive units like True, it emphasizes dedicated power amplification for users prioritizing top-tier sonic purity and compatibility with a range of preamplifiers.
TRUE
- Positioning: A flagship passive preamplifier and input selector engineered for uncompromised signal delivery.
- Description: Features multiple inputs with ultra-transparent volume control, preserving the original signal without adding its own coloration. Unlike active amplifiers such as Integre4, Suara, or Mighty, its passive design focuses on pure, unaltered sound and minimal intervention in the audio chain.
Our take on the brand
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What if you spend more?
The Audio Note (UK) CONQUEST Mono Power Amplifiers are Pure Class A Parallel Single Ended valve amplifiers that use a pair of the highly regarded 300B triode valves per channel, producing a level of performance that is radically superior to the vast majority of current designs. They have been specifically engineered for sonic performance rather than technical specification, and fulfil all Audio Note (UK) Level 3 criteria: - Pure Class A operation Zero Negative Feedback Single Ended Output Stage Valve Rectification Directly Heated Triode operation Materials and component quality
The Silver version builds upon the already superb performance of the standard CONQUEST, and features the following component upgrades: - Audio Note (UK) AN-V internal cable Audio Note 1 Watt Tantalum film resistors Audio Note (UK) Copper Foil signal capacitors Audio Note (UK) IHiB Double C-core output transformers
The Silver Signature version builds upon the already superb performance of the standard CONQUEST, and features the following component upgrades: - Audio Note (UK) AN-Vx internal cable Audio Note (UK) 2 Watt Tantalum film resistors Audio Note (UK) Copper Foil signal capacitors Audio Note (UK) SHiB Double C-core output transformers
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Classic single-ended triode amplifier that caresses vocals and conveys warmth in vocal recordings
- Delivers rock-solid image placement and transparency, particularly in the midband
- Acts like a higher-wattage amplifier than its 18W rating suggests
- Can drive speakers that aren't absurdly sensitive
Product Considerations
- Build quality is not as refined as the more expensive Japanese-made Audio Note products
- Bass can be waffly/uncontrolled
- Top-end frequency performance can vary
- May not impress those familiar with higher-end Audio Note amplifiers
Takeaway: The Audio Note Conquest is a single-ended triode amplifier that can provide a lush, sweet midband and is more powerful than its specifications suggest. It offers single-ended triode performance at a more accessible price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
An amplifier designed for the most demanding enthusiasts of 300B tube sound. The unprecedented PSE structure operating in class A was built using the highest quality toroidal transformers, designed especially for this amplifier. This guarantees linearity and wide frequency response. Extended tube life is ensured by delayed anode voltage switching. The unique tone of the 300B tubes is free, spacious and very involving.
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Neutral and transparent sound, more so than the reference amplifier
- Bass performance is remarkably tight, articulate, solid, and weighty, without typical 'tube character'
- Very good rhythmic capabilities
- Maintains control even with inefficient or difficult speakers
- Threads a fine middle path between a typical transistor sound and a typical tube sound—with an unmistakable midrange charm
Product Considerations
- Some might find it 'not characterful enough' because it is superbly even-handed
- With some speakers, the balance can be a little too lean and overly controlled
- Its low power rating ultimately imposes a limit on how loud one can play, which may not suit everyone
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Ayon Spirit III: The Lybra sounds almost as powerful and robust in the bass while being perhaps even tighter and articulate, and is more highly refined with subtler and airier treble
- Vs Trafomatic tube amps and MP's Jadis amplifiers: The Lybra offers something different, it's not as voluptuous, rich, and relaxed as the Trafomatic
Takeaway: The Fezz Lybra is a neutral and controlled amplifier that offers a balanced sound without sounding like a typical tube amp, providing articulate bass and a charming midrange. It could be worth buying if you like very good sound, especially if you have efficient speakers.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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The Little Nugget is meant to pair with the stereo pre and provide a no compromise entry into bespoke audio. With 17watts you can run nearly any speaker practically in most rooms. Fantastic pairings include JBL L100, KEF LS50, Tekton double impacts, Zu Dirty Weekend 6s, Klipsch Fortes, LS3/5a, Harbeth 30.1s.
The Stereo 17 (Little Nugget) is an EL84 ultra linear amp with 17 watts of tube bliss. 2 EL84 tubes in push-pull configuration per channel with 12AX7 for input and a 12AU7 for the phase splitter. The Stereo 17 is based on the famous Halfer circuit with cathode bias allowing trouble free operation. 8ohm and 4ohm taps with 8ohm and 16ohm combination as an option.
The circuit used is widely famed for its stability and liquid midrange. With fixed bias, tube rolling is a breeze. The removable tube cage protects your tubes when family and pets cant be trusted. The Stereo 17 produces perfectly stable 17 watts RMS with 22watt peaks.
The output transformers utilize massive cores which resist saturation and deliver jaw dropping low end performance. Like all ampsandsound amplifiers, it is dead quiet with reliable performance. When we say dead… we mean put your ear to the mouth of your horn-loaded system and all you will hear is silence!
Product Strengths
- Metal chassis provides better ergonomics and structural integrity compared to the previous wood chassis
- Robust power supply prevents compression, even with demanding speakers
- Has full bandwidth down into the low 20s without problem
- Warm lush midrange and the right 3d spatial cues up top
- Fast, accurate, proportionate sound that is warm but not dry or analytical
Product Considerations
- The reviewer mentioned they are going to work on adding name badges to the next versions
Takeaway: The amplifier is great sounding with a robust power supply. Its proportionate and warm sound makes it ideal for nearfield listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Creates an extraordinarily vivid sound
- Has the seeming ability to turn up the contrast knob on everything passed through it
- Offers great color and body
Product Considerations
- When playing very loud passages at extravagant volume levels, it clipped less elegantly
- Bass output was just a bit excessive
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Surpasses the Haut-Brion in terms of color saturation
- The Haut-Brion has a somewhat better sense of scale overall, is capable of greater delicacy when needed, and sounded a shade righter, timbrally, on trumpets and singing voices
- The Haut-Brion offered the more well-balanced bass, relative to the volume of sound in the rest of the audible range—the Haut's bass was also drier and a little more detailed
Takeaway: The Shindo Montille CV 391 is a hand-wired tube amp that delivers vivid and colorful sound, making music come alive. It's a great match for less sensitive speakers and offers a unique listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Beautiful and elegant design and high build quality
- Delivers a true single-ended triode sound field, offering enormous delicacy and a full organic sound presentation
- Simplifies the process of using tube amplifiers with automatic bias control
- Sound is concentrated in the midrange, dense, saturated, and organic
- Offers a variety of color options without an extra cost
Product Considerations
- Requires careful speaker matching
- The on/off switch's location on the back might be awkward
- The acrylic glass on the front of the tube cage might be scratched easily and its mounting is questionable
- May not be ideal for hard rock due to a tendency to smooth out some of the pain
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Unison Research Triode 25: The Unison has more interesting, bolder, more dynamic, transparent, and engaging sound
- Vs Unison Research Preludio: The Mira Ceti has better design, build quality, and sound performance
Takeaway: The Mira Ceti 300B is a beautiful amplifier that provides a delicate and organic sound, especially when paired with the right speakers. It's a great option for anyone looking for a quality tube amplifier.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and airy treble provides a holographic and three-dimensional soundstage
- Musical, transparent, and realistic mid-range
- High-quality internal components are used, including expensive capacitors
- Class A performance with less heat compared to some other Class A amps
- Well-constructed and uses parts sourced from North America
- Only has RCA inputs, no balanced inputs
Product Considerations
- Bass quality may be perceived as loose or lacking control compared to some other amplifiers
- Pairing with the right preamp is crucial to achieve desired sound characteristics
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Pass Labs XA-25, the TS-A20 has more detail and air in the treble, while the XA-25 is warmer and richer in the mid-band
- Vs AGD AGR2, the TS-A20 is richer and warmer, while the AGR2 has better bass articulation, quickness, and separation
Takeaway: The Galleon TS-A20 is a well-built Class A amplifier known for its detailed, airy sound and holographic imaging. It's a great option for listeners seeking a transparent and realistic sound signature with quality components.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Uses a Static Induction Transistor (SIT), which has characteristics similar to a triode vacuum tube
- It expands and opens up soundstage, with a gorgeous sound and great midrange, with voices sounding present and full-bodied
- The amp holds a conversation with the speaker, letting it 'have it your way'—rather than forcing its own sound
- It's spectacular on tone complexity, spatial hydration, fleshiness and vividness, making it sound off-charts organic, elastic and tangible
- The main aspect that positions it noticeably above all other amps is immersion, making music three-dimensional, material, enveloping
Product Considerations
- The SIT-4 is a limited production piece due to the limited availability of the Tokin SIT transistors
- The power output is limited (10 watts into 8 ohms, 5 watts into 4 ohms), so it's not a universal amplifier
- It is not ideal for speakers that require a lot of power, like Magnepans or electrostatic speakers
- The power switch is located on the rear of the unit
- Runs very hot
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs First Watt SIT3: It sounds cooler in tonal balance and has more 3D imaging and body
- Vs Pass Labs XA-25: It sounds more immersive, while the XA-25 is sharper and more focused
- Vs First Watt F7: SIT-4 felt more gathered, punchier and texturally juicier, the F7 was more diffused, innocent, icier, leaner and color-wise opaque
- Vs Elekit TU-8900: It is more rugged and expressive, while the TU-8900 presents recordings more aesthetically
Takeaway: The SIT-4 is a specialized amplifier that produces great sound with the right speakers, with beautiful tone and expands the soundstage. It's a good option for people who like tube amps but want a solid-state amplifier.
Video review
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Our Summary
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The M23's build quality feels solid and elegant, with impressive small design details
- The sound is striking in its purity and clarity
- It offers up to three levels of gain, switchable on the back panel, to best fit the system
- It provides a clear sound without sounding hard
- It features Purifi Eigentakt Class D amplification, which provides virtually unmeasurable distortion levels
Product Considerations
- The bass is clean but may be perceived as a little on the cool side and not as 'wompy-sounding'
- The M23 is not a forgiving amplifier that makes everything sound sweet and wonderful—it's not for those seeking a soft and mellow sound
- Bridging with speakers below 5 or 6 ohms is not recommended, as the amp will current limit and potentially shut down
- The reviewer found ergonomical challenges using fancy speaker cables in bridged mode due to wide terminal spacing
- The capacitive touch power button can accidentally trigger
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bel Canto C6i: The M23 offered a layer of refinement and better reproduction of the recording space
- Vs Pass XA25: The M23 had more transparent sound and detail, especially in the treble and upper mids, but lacked the organic quality of the XA25
- Vs HiFi Rose RS 520: The M23 sounded cleaner and had better separation/depth, HiFi Rose seemed to have an EQ built-in, emphasizing midrange and bass
- Vs NAD C298: The M23 is more neutral, deals with decay more naturally, and has better casework, making it look high-end
- Vs Anthem M1 monoblock amplifiers: The M23 was slightly more transparent throughout the entire frequency range
- Vs Bryston 4B 3: The Bryston had more grunt but the M23 is more neutral
Takeaway: The NAD M23 is a powerful and precise amplifier that delivers clean and clear sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles who want to hear their music as accurately as possible. It is especially well-suited for those looking to build a high-end system around a quality preamp or DAC.
Video review
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