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OVERVIEW.. a rough guide
A valve is an electronic device that has been the basis of all audio and television designs from the early 1900’s, until the invention of the transistor in the late 1940’s, and beyond. The transistor quickly grew in popularity, and now powers just about everything electronic from cars to computers. However, it soon became apparent to the audio purists that the best sound reproduction was being achieved with valves rather than transistors. They found that music was clearer and more open, with a well-defined sound stage much closer to the original recordings than transistors could produce. The sound achieved does however depend largely on circuit design and the choice of components used, but in the majority of cases valves still give the best overall sound and the most pleasurable listening experiences. Most people who have listened to, or who own valve audio equipment will agree that - “There is no sound quite like a valve sound”
SINGLE-ENDED OUTPUT
Our single-ended power amplifiers consist of triode and pentode type valves:
The triode versions are feedback free, and operate in pure Class-A giving between 4 and 25 Watts. The simple design of these circuits equates to fewer components and the shortest audio path giving higher signal fidelity. This results in a more natural sound especially in the midrange and treble, and second harmonic distortion produced in the circuit is said by purists to be pleasant to the ear. Amplifiers of this design are relatively low power, and are typically used with loudspeakers that have a sensitivity of 91dB or greater. A good single-ended amplifier like our own ‘Golden Night’, is very dependant on the quality of the output transformer and the type of valve used.
The pentode versions in which we use EL34, KT88 and KT90 valves also operate in pure Class-A giving a slightly higher output power than the triodes, able to drive a larger variety of loudspeaker. These amplifiers are also dependant on the quality of output transformer used, therefore we use the same ones as in the triode single-ended amplifiers.
PUSH-PULL OUTPUT
Our push-pull amplifiers also consist of triode and pentode type valves:
The triode Audion versions operate in pure Class-A to deliver up to 25 Watts of output power. These amplifiers yield a tight, well defined base response and give a good all round natural sound. They can be used with a very wide range of loudspeaker and incorporate our high quality output transformers and components. The Audion ‘Silver Night’ Push-Pull amplifiers have gained A-ratings around the world, and a cult following with audiophiles who appreciate music at it’s best.
The pentode. Audion versions deliver up to 50 Watts of pure Class-A power giving a great bass response and excellent overall sound. They work well with a wide range of loudspeaker and are favourites with those who want high power at a competitive price.
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