Summary: The ASL has a very nice design (subjective of course) and its very well made. 2x50W with KT88 (push-pull), bias adjustment for each tube and switch for pentode/triode, it offers what you need to obtain the best of it.
The listening configuration by using Linn Ninka loudspeaker (90db) single wire passive (I am just waiting the new cabling bi-wire passive) with several CD reader (the best was Cyrus).
The sound is a typical tube, warm and high musicality are the first caracteristics you feel. The bass a deep and strong, with agredable resonance (but some could consider a bit too much). Nevertheless, Frank Hardly (just bellow) should check his configuration because having listen ASL with several LS, even Spendor (generous in bass), I have not ear any exageration (except with old ESS Tempest). The high are clear and the medium remains precise and "solid". Overall Ninka + ASL configuration provides a well balance coloration. The voice are clear and single instruments (pianon, violoncello) are warm and precise, the opera allows all details to be present without exageration.
This makes the ASL having a great price/performance ratio. The amp should offer to any one what he needs whatever music he is listening. Of course, it remains a tube amp (you like or not).
Finally, I do not know if ASL needs specific loudspeaker, but definitly, my Linn Ninka have increased their musicality by fare since ASL is installed. From some tests done, the Unison research Unico (hybrid) offers similar caracteristics, but did remain one step backward in the "spacialisation" of the sound.
Strengths: very well made, nice design, musicality and bass, relief and warm, cheap compare to competition, tube (if you like)
Weaknesses: remote control not very precise
Similar Products Used: Unison Research Unico (hybrid), Jolida 502B, Cayin TA35
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Rating Reviewed by: frank hardly(Unregistered User)
(AudioPhile)
Review Date October 12, 2002
Overall Rating 3 of 5
Value Rating 3 of 5
Used product for Less than 1 month
Visitors rate this review 4.80 of 5,
5.00 votes
Review 2 of 3
, from western hemisphere
Price Paid:
$1100.00
from store
Summary: While the previous reviewer is bass-hungry, I found this unit driving a pair of Triangle Celius' to be bloomy. The bass reverberated beyond what was really there and drowned out some of the mid-range. I'm all for bass, but realistic bass - not some steroid-enhanced version that you wouldn't find in real life. Now the big question is whether is was the Celius' or the ASL. I believe it was the ASL. If realism is your bag, I think you can find better choices. On the pro side the unit is a looker and lugging it around can save you a gym membership - its heavy. Aesthetics aside, its the ears that have to live most of the time with your choice.
Strengths: Looks really good. Cheaper than the competition if tubes are your obsession.
Weaknesses: Bloomy bass. No spine-tingling emotion with this choice.
Similar Products Used: Cairn 4808, Arcan Diva A85, Creek 5350SE, Krell KAV 300, Unison Research Unico
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Summary: Excelent value for the money, good bass, capable of besting many transistor amplifiers. Good build quality. A very complete amplifier, I'm using it with a pair of Triangle Antal Spekers, and the result is very satisfyng. The AQ 1001 is a 50 Watt integrated amplifier capable of a great sound, at a low price. I'm using this amplifier whit 4 KT 90 valves replacing the KT 88 (origin), and recomend this setup to all the fans of a powerfull bass.
Strengths: Smooth, detailed, and very musical sound. Capable of driving almost any speaker.
Weaknesses: None for the price paid.
Similar Products Used: Audio Refinement the complete, Jolida 1501, etc.
5 of 5
3 of 5
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