Summary: The SE-OTL is an amazing amp for a specialty niche. I agree completely with the two previous reviewers. I want to add that this is only 1 1/2 WPC but it sounds like 5 WPC. For those who use high efficiency speakers of 94DB or better you will be rewarded with rich natural sound. The amp requires the most neutral preamp and sources, and works well with tube or solid state. This amp is the only class A OTL amp available. (Another manufacturer claims his are class A but in truth they aren't.) With the proper speakers this little gem puts 300B amps to shame. Typical SET amps sound slow and syrupy by comparison. I am one of those people who auditions a lot of gear, but the SE-OTL always finds its way back into a system. A great amp for the single driver speaker crowd.
Strengths: Beautiful sound. Reliable. Very cost effective, and within its power limits possibly the best amp I have ever heard.because the amp is an OTL there aren't any output transformers to tmuddy the sound.
Weaknesses: These really aren't weaknesses. Compromises is a better word. First, power is limited; you must have efficient speakers. The speakers should have a 8-16 Ohm load. It runs hot because of true Class A operation. The amp is only available as a kit. Transcendent Sound has a list of associates who can build it for you if don't want to attempt a do it yourself project.
Similar Products Used: Decware Zen C-EX, ASL wave, A kit built 300B am, an a 2A3 amp, the manufacturer I don't remember..
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Summary: This amp is the finest I have heard. It is quiet, fast and extremely musical. The amp does not seem to color the sound in the least but seems completely nuetral (in a good way). I am completely satisfied with this amp. If you are considering this, you need to understand that you should have efficient speakers as this amp has 1.5 watts. With the speakers I have, the power is more than enough. It just sounds wonderful with horns.
Strengths: Everything
Weaknesses: Unless you have high efficiency speakers, the power may not be enough.
Similar Products Used: Various 2A3 amplifiers, el34 amps, and middle end solid state amps
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Summary: This amp, with its 1.5 watts output, and no transformer distortion, gives results, thru top equipment, such as the Oris 200/DM3 at 109db efficiency, by Bert Doppenburg, that is very, very close to live music, in all aspects. Only missing is what is NOT on the LP or CD. Closely miked voice and solo instruments are live. You want Fischer Diskau ti sing Schubert lieder in your lounge, put on the LP!! No excuses are neede for any missing parameters as in other systems..I get to concerts in Vienna up to twice a week, so my ears are finely and regularly calibrated. This is what hi-fidelity is all about.
Strengths: Absolute clarity, musical, powerful enough, disappears in the music chain, no adjustments needed, no overheating..
Weaknesses: NIL
Similar Products Used: Various tube amps, Quicksilver, other brand ots, and top transistor amps, Chord UK etc
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