Part 1: The perfect power amplifier?

In this video I discuss what it is that makes us choose from one type of amplifier to another. I also suggest 'the perfect' solution to power amplification and a chance to reduce the clutter in our listening rooms.
Link to VTV - Prurify Amplifier website: vtvamplifier.com/vtv-purifi/
Link to the Purify Eigentakt website: purifi-audio.com/eigentakt/
As always, if you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at:
www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions:
[e-mail]
Social media links:
/ pearlacoustics
/ pearl.acoustics

[@andrewsparks3157]

Andrew of Sparkos Labs here - glad to hear you are enjoying the discrete SS2590 op amps. If you ever want some additional op amps to play around with - just let me know :)

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Andrew, that would be extremely interesting and useful. Feel free to contact me via the website, or Warren.

[@Bob.martens]

I own a Purifi based amp. It truly is the thinking man's choice. I have never before heard, let alone owned, an amp that I enjoyed so much with such a variety of music styles and sources.

[@PearlAcoustics]

That’s good to hear

[@guyboisvert66]

I second that: I bought the Hypex Nilai 500 DIY Stereo and the Hyper Preamp DIY, it's marvelous! I am an ex DJ and listen to a wide variety of music genre. Sparkos Tube in there, for me it's no thank you, total no go... "More Musical" = the guy like the added harmonic distortion of tubes: I don't like distortion at all, i don't want to hear colored sound! But cool, we have choice of buffers for those amps, a modular architecture that brings flexibility / choices.

[@sebastianlunoe]

@Bob.martens would you mind telling which buffer and opamp you’re using and which speakers you have?

[@Bob.martens]

@@sebastianlunoe I have the Audiophonics hpa-s400et amp. Audiophonics produce their own buffer board with LM4562 OPA, offering four gain-settings and a buffer bypass. My speakers (in rotation): Q acoustics 5040, Wharfedale Linton, Klipsch RP150. I use a Topping D70pro Sabre as preamp.

[@gerasimger15]

Harley your videos always make me relax and at ease. love everything you've put out.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks, I am so glad

[@jeremiahchamberlin4499]

Great introduction to newer Class D amplifiers that everyone is talking about. Really appreciated it.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Jeremiah, so glad to hear your kind comment

[@bugsbunny4698]

So enjoyable to listen to you. I actually bought my amplifier without listening to it, but instead because of the way it was developed. As you mentioned, it has two IcePower Modules from Bang & Olufsen (kind of a predecessor to the Eigentakt modules) and is equipped with an input stage specially engineered as a class-a module, especially not with perfect measurements but best sound quality in mind. So I thought, it should be the best of both worlds. And it is. It's the PS Audio Stellar S300. I was blown away when I first listened to it and I still am. And it's on the budget side also, as a bonus.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks. You’re very kind. And I am so pleased that you have found the perfect amplifier for you. Best wishes

[@alanm.thornton4055]

It's so interesting how far we have come in 10-20 years with the electronics and the components used in basically the same functioning stereo components from 50 years ago! You mentioned the Quad amplifiers in other videos, and how renowned they were: and they were! I have an retro-set up of Rega Mira integrated with Epos ES14 speakers. I absolutely love how they sound, the power, the freakish center image, the mid range.......but then I listen to my Legacy Studio HD speakers from my Rega Elicit integrated, and it's like an entirely new-never before heard-musical experience. I am so amazed at how distinct amplifiers have come in their sound. I am eager to hear digital amps become more accepted in hi-fi (like from Bel Canto in the USA).

[@PearlAcoustics]

Absolutely Alan!

[@carltonspence4285]

Warren Coleman is a pleasure to deal with. I consulted with him regarding options for my Apogee Scintilla. Ordered a pair of his Purifi HP mono blocks and have been more than satisfied with their musicality.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Couldn’t agree more

[@AllboroLCD]

Well put! Ive always been partial to the thought of designing amps around the speaker it drives. The EXACT amount of power the unit can safely take. To have the volume at 5 o'clock and the only damage I need worry, are to my own eardrums.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks! 😉

[@raygilmer]

I own a VTV Purifi amp with a Sparkos buffer. When I bought it about a year ago, I ordered it with the Hypex standard buffer. Playing through my Magnepan 1.7i speakers, it sounded a bit thin, as the Maggies are super fast and detailed and add no significant warmth of their own (at least in my setup). Warren said the Sparkos 2590 is a great blend of smoothness with some warmth but not compromising details, and he is right. The VTV Purifi amp is by far the most detailed and clean I've ever used with the Maggies, with plenty of power and control for my power-hungry speakers. I might next try Warren's tube buffer boards.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment

[@cpg8000]

Harley: the topic and narrative of this video spoke right to me. Your impressions of the module, and further thoughts on how to “flesh it out” really captures, I think, how so many of us feel about the Eigentakt module in its current offerings. It feels like we are so close, by still no cigar on when compared with some class A offerings. As a concert pianist myself, that “musical” quality is what I’m after in the reproduction of music, which is why I love my Pass amp. It feels like we are on the cusp of greatness here. Good to see you, and thank you for sharing your thoughts so genuinely. Best regards.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you very much indeed for your very kind appreciation. I can only agree with you 100%

[@raphaelmeillat8527]

Not sure how you do this Harley but you always manage to convey constructive messages about technology or recording workflow while sticking to the one message that matters most: every hi-fi decision should strive for greater musicality and music enjoyment! Thanks for sharing your voice. Can't wait to watch your interview with Bruno!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Raphael!

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

THANKS HARLEY, FOR AN INTERESTING AND THOUGHT PROVOKING VIDEO…GIVING US SOMETHING 🧐 TO CONTEMPLATE 🤗👏👏👏💚💚💚

[@PearlAcoustics]

You are so welcome!

[@riccitone]

Great amp, love the idea of customization via tubes and/or discrete op amps on the input stage. Also curious about your impressions on the newer GaN amps from Peachtree and LSA. Thank you for covering these newer types of amps.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks John. Much appreciated. Pt 2 is coming soon.

[@TheCharlesAtoz]

I held my breath waiting for this video-- I was very blue. Listening to you Harvey is so much fun and informative.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you. I am so glad you enjoyed it

[@roberthesse5990]

As always so refreshing and informative, particularly your suggestion that we might prefer a bit of distortion. SMSL offers sound “colors “ on many of their Sabre dacs. Instead of tweaking the tonal response these are implemented by adjusting low order harmonic distortion. Some, not purists, consider these appealing (we all know about the 2nd harmonic of tubes). I’ve used the Sparkos in one of my dacs and found it more musical than some of the typical chips. I’ve since changed to the Staccato, made by someone in Poland. It is a jfet, discrete device and my current, subjective favorite. But beware, I’m unsure I could tell the difference if tested. I believe, as you imply, that “perfection” will always depend on who we are and what we listen to. Again, thanks for the amalgamation of knowledge, wisdom, curiosity, and humanity - a welcome beacon in an otherwise gnarly and distracting landscape.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Robert, you’re very kind! (I often think that if my team sneaked into my listening room and switched my Sugden with my Torri V or even the PassLabs, without me being able to know - it might be a while before I discovered it! I think it will only be when I am listening to tracks I know very well from testing, that I might ask myself “whats going in here?”

[@audio_acoustic_engineering]

Agreed! Great video and I. Amt wait for March 14 th interview with Bruno 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Harley I love your attitude towards HiFi.

[@peterlarkin762]

I spent the last 3 years making my own power and preamp. This involved trying loads of component variations, testing, and listening for days, eventually moving on to a second prototype etc. The amount of time, skill, experience and patience it takes to make good hifi was an eye opener, and honestly left me with severe audio burnout a few times. Now I have a system that I can just turn on and enjoy without the mental analytics. One of the many things baked into my brain now is that some preamps and amps just don't sound good together. Every component needs to compliment the other.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Peter, thanks for sharing your story. I am so glad you’ve found that place where the sun shines on music and not the technology. Having said that - building your own is quite an achievement and one not many have the skill or patience to achieve. Enjoy.

[@guyboisvert66]

Principle of adding transfer function of each imperfect components in the signal path...

[@mauriceparhamovich5358]

Another good one, Harley. Thanks Be well.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks, you too!

[@paulinboston]

Interesting and eye-opening.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you. Your comment is much appreciated

[@pgbeas3324]

Hi Harley! Last nigth my 300 b amp went up in flames. I was familiar with the work of Bruno , but not with VTV, after seeing your video i`ve ordered the VTV amp with the sparkos 2590 Opamp. Thank you! Can`t wait to see Bruno`s interview. Regards, from Tijuana, Mèxico.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, sorry to hear about your 300b amplifier! Enjoy the VTV. Bruno interview comes out on the 14th.

[@Johan-vl4bi]

I'm looking for a new amp and i've seen these Eigentakt-things before but you're the first who explains what the heck those buffer-boards are for. Thanks! :)

[@PearlAcoustics]

So pleased to have been a help, thanks Johan!

[@boydsargeant7496]

Another great video Harley. I was at the Bristol hi-fi show on Friday, I had you in my ear the whole time🤣

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀

[@shipsahoy1793]

👍I agree ! Every product is based on personal preference to a significant degree for a variety of reasons, warranted or otherwise.😉

[@PearlAcoustics]

👍

[@futch0367]

Superb explanation. Seems to me there’s never been a better time to be enjoying music. For years I never gave a thought to recording quality or CD v vinyl. Now we have incredible equipment (Rega P10) audiophile record labels producing incredible quality vinyl & the rise of digital which can only improve exponentially in the coming years as Dacs, streamer technology gets better. I love the videos Harley, keep making them.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you Chris, you’re very kind! And so true. And the brilliant thing is, some items like the VTV amplifier is incredible value for money. It should last for decades too

[@guyboisvert66]

For digital & DACs, we're already there. We've reach commodity level, meaning you can get a pretty good DAC for low money.

[@jeffreythurston1822]

Harley always such a joy to hear your thoughts. I will say that the way a component looks is not as important but definitely a part of what I enjoy about them. Form and function speak to me through creative design. I’d not be satisfied hiding away components for the sake of minimizing the set up. I love ogling my equipment as I immerse myself in the wonderful music they produce. That being said, the technology you describe with this amp is very interesting.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Jeffrey. Enjoy away! In a strange way, I get your point. What does one look at when listening to music?

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

@@PearlAcoustics to answer your question honestly I like to look at my girlfriend but when she's not around a decent substitute is some liner notes, photos,etc from the album I'm listening to. Some well designed and crafted audio gear will for me be a nice compliment for whatever else I have in my humble abode. For instance if I'm sitting on my comfortable couch listening to some music there is something very soothing about looking over at the soft glowing blue light coming from my vintage Marantz receiver as I get into the music. This scenario loses a lot of it's appeal if I have a piece of junk equipment that doesn't sound very good.

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@richardwestmoreland4796 😀. Junk equipment that doesn’t sound good, is a ‘no’ for me too. Although I have had some ugly stuff in the past that sounded great… Enjoy the beauty of both equipment and the sound it emanates

[@celtic-audiophile]

My Devialet Pro 1000 Master and Slave module. All configured on a computer through an SD card. The custom SAM module is designed to be coded to your individual speaker, they currently have I think over 400 speakers coded, and offer annual clinics to have your speakers added. I’m on my 4th upgrade since I started with Devialet amps, can’t see me changing anytime soon.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Nice

[@Yeybeth]

You make me feel peace inside of me and try to think twice abouth big amps.. “ is true my wife have the right: I don’t know 🤷‍♀️ why you spend to much money for amp that is better to buy a cheep than a expensive. GREAT TALK !! Hi from Los Angeles CA.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks. You’re very kind

[@sinisatrlin840]

Many moons ago i have decided to give B&O ICE modules a try. I have builded nice housing and E88CC tube buffer. It was not bad, but it was not good either. Withouth E88CC buffer it was cold and uninvolving. But with signal generator driving it at 1kHz you could weld with it. That was long time ago and by now these things must have made long way. For time being and untill proven othervise i will stick to valve SE A class. Sir you have a great chanell.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Sinisa, I find I have to agree with you here. Especially with the class A Sugden 😉

[@wajopek2679]

I so miss my 1980’s NVA amp with Spendor SP speakers. NVA has a very particular design philosophy.

[@chrisvst]

You know NVA is back in business?

[@michelcouture7026]

I love your idea, a lot of potential DIY, the idea to have different buffer stage kind of evolve from the idea of the Gallion of modifying the bias from class AB to class A. Bob Carver did long time ago some amplifier with Transfer Function Module that mimic the tube . NAD did it’s M23 on that premise I think, designing both PS and buffer section with the Purifi modules. Would be nice if designers like NP would team up with BP! And call the result Utopia or something like that. In the end good sound is a mater of taste. Variable level of harmonic distortion might give potential enjoyment depending on the listening program.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Michael. And thanks for your your very welcome comment

[@JoseCruz-cy1yk]

Great video! Videos from you and from thomas and stereo lead me to believe that incredible sound is possible out of class d amplification. The key here is that most of the “good” amplifiers that I’ve seen have some type of input buffer in front of it. So perhaps that is the way forward. Maybe you buy just the module and try different buffers to suite your taste.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Jose! Another approach might be to drive the module directly from a tube preamplifier that can deliver a high enough voltage… but I am open to all ideas.

[@JoseCruz-cy1yk]

I was thinking the same thing. Perhaps integrated amplifiers with your choice of pre-amp.

[@volpedo2000]

Harvey have you tried or are you considering the Nad M32. The buffer, power supply and eigentakt module are all designed in house. Maybe it has what you are looking for.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Will. Yes we have tried it and indeed it’s very good and if I could only have one amplifier in the world, it might be that one. But I love the imperfections of my Sugden A21SE or the Torri v - something happens there that is truly extraordinary. Best wishes from Belgium

[@hanneskluytenaar6908]

Very interesting matter. I wonder, if the lyngdorf tdai 1120 you sometimes use, would be a good match as a preamp. Because it has the possibility to use different settings or voices. Curious for your answer, Hannes

[@PearlAcoustics]

You make an excellent point here. I didn’t try it because the Lyngdorf has no balanced outputs (I keep nagging Lyngdorf to make a true pre-amp version) and the VTV I received had only balanced inputs. I think it would be worth exploring this further. The Lyngdorf has a pretty good amplifier so it might be a bit of a pointless exercise - but it could be very interesting. Thanks for your comment

[@brucecampbell7960]

How would you compare the VTV power amplifier with the D-Sonics from your earlier review? Both are high-power Class D. Which would be better for long-term listening, particularly for large-scale classical? Greatly appreciate your insights and videos. You have a wonderful sense of curiosity. Looking forward to your future videos

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Bruce, that’s a very good question. And sadly I have not tried the comparison. I love the Pascal ‘D’ sonics, with the buffer Bruce made for me. They are very musical for class D. I imagine they will be very similar. The point of my going for the Eigentakt in this video is because Bruno is such a genius and he has taken his original Hypex design to the next level and therefore it made sense to feature this up to the moment, very high performant design. I think the same applies to both amplification modules, the beauty in sound will largely be defined by the pre-amplifier, and what sits in front of it. Hoping this helps?

[@user-od9iz9cv1w]

Your comments comparing to a watch is apt. No one needs anything better than a $20 watch to tell time. But we buy the one we like and also get to tell the time. I built big OTL triode amps because the notion of tube amps fit my design aesthetic. The circuit designer was well regarded, so it had the potential to sound good, but I did it on faith. They sound as good as they look, and I never think of changing or upgrading. What little distortion they have suit my ears. Holographic and engaging. For me, they are the Patek watch, while the amp you are showcasing is the Casio. My amps have the huge disadvantage of needing retubing, and they take a lot of space, and are energy inefficient. But I do love them. When I get old and have to downsize, I'll get the perfect Class D, and put it in a cabinet out of sight. And also buy your speakers. I would buy Bruno's modules to build some power amps for my woofers. I need about 13dB of gain. They would likely work without the gain stage.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you for your very kind appreciation and for your contribution to the discussion. I too have a big, very heavy pair of tube monoblocks in my home listening room. They best it beautifully in the winter. But in the Summer we switch to class D. Best wishes, H

[@jorgenskadhauge7020]

Hi Harley, thanks a lot for your videos. I am new here, did you already have a look and listen of the Benchmark, which in my ears have a truely borring but wonderfull sound.....

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Jorgen. Thank you for your kind appreciation. I personally have not heard one in our listening room but a number of our customers swear by it, saying that it controls the Sibelius drivers perfectly. I love your concept of ‘boring but wonderful’ - exactly what a long term piece of amplification equipment should be! Enjoy

[@Tacet137]

Also you can run it fine without any buffer no problem just use pro audio converter with high output

[@techslfink9722]

I tend to compare colouration of sound with the smallest pinch of salt in food. You may not be able to taste it as such, but you notice some difference. In school I learnt that anything below 1dB difference is inaudible, so two amps with the same distortion of 0.001% should sound *exactly* the same, but it is not necessarily the case. I've compared characteristics of a guitar pick up with different magnets (same pick up) and noticed an audible difference - although the measurements differed just a fraction of a dB in a certain frequency range. On the other hand I'd like to see what the outcome of an amp comparison would be in a double blind test - just to be sure, since there are quite a few placebo's out there...

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed, less than 1 db in amplitude difference is very hard to detect, except for the trained ear, and only in a few. But change the sound of one human talking to another (at the same amplitude) and you’ll hear the difference immediately. Amp architecture and transistor or Tube types change so many parameters. The only thing we can truly measure is amplitude. Which is like pointing a telescope in the wrong direction.

[@adrianbeck1654]

Nva (neeve valley acoustics-the perfect amplifiers full stop and made in the uk

[@gyulahunyor8267]

I just happen to own a Hypex NC500 based amplifier which I like most switching to bypass mode the internal buffer (keeping some 12+ dB gain ) and driving the amplifier, practically the NC500 modules directly by a tube preamplifier.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed, this is something that my colleague Ajay swears by…. I am sure this is the direction to go, but am open to be convinced otherwise

[@wyup]

Which tube preamplifier can drive Hypex NC500 unbuffered 1.8 kΩ input impedance with its 12db gain?

[@gyulahunyor8267]

@@wyup I use an Icon Audio LA4 Mk III to a great effect. I certainly recommend this combination. It has a low 100 ohm output impedance.

[@wyup]

@@gyulahunyor8267 Thanks.. discourages me a bit that I need to spend twice the price of the amp to get that sound.

[@gyulahunyor8267]

@@wyup I understand. In fact I was lucky by getting a second-hand unit some years ago. This is a bit older version with separate pre-outs of 12 dB 18 dB, but the 12 dB does the job in most cases. I really like the low total gain solutions where the preamp can do its job by actually amplifying and not attenuating because of the high gain of the power amplifier. Sounds familiar when you can operate with the volume pot up to 9 o'clock position? By having 12+12.8 dB of total gain I can set the volume to the upper third of its range and the sound is somewhat livelier, more open.

[@adrianbeck1654]

Nva use simplicity,a perfect match for the simplicity of your beautiful transducer

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for the tip!

[@Jack96993]

I could never lift my class D amp with one hand and place it on a shelf It weighs 54lb's!! Really enjoyed your discussion on the future of class D amps and it seems they are getting better every day

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks Jack! You have a very heavy class D there! 👍

[@Jack96993]

@@PearlAcoustics It is! It has a 5 inch thick x eight inch diameter toroidal transformer 500watts@8ohm 650@4ohms and 1,200 watts@1ohm

[@james6039]

It reminds me of the Carver Cube.

[@1A9lis]

Hi sir. Your entering into interesting territory, some might even say a minefield 😂. This has the potential to certainly disrupt the low to mid range of the hifi market , because it could totally level the playing field . As you rightly say those with the cash to splash will always operate outside the everyday marketplace . But what you’re envisaging is a one box solution that has the potential to decimate the whole of the industry . And as you rightly pointed out , most manufacturers are catering to people who just want the best sound at the best price . I would definitely include myself in that group , so if you can produce such an item that is equal or better to anything else why would I bother going to a different manufacturer . And judging by the actual component count, this could be mass produced and bring down the cost even further so what’s not to like . If as I assume you might be consider helping with bring this to the mass market with some of the component upgrades , then many in the industry will be breaking out into cold sweats . The perfect mouse trap or even the perfect toaster , food for thought dear sir Ps. At least everyones still got the speaker industry and play back formats to play with Best wishes and kind regards as always 😀👍👍👍

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks your very kind appreciation. And thanks for your excellent contribution to the topic. Best wishes from Belgium

[@medonk12rs]

Perfect specs don't guarantee perfect music listening, it seems. Even if the Eigentakt modules might be as close as currently possible to measurable perfection for a current amp/power amp, you seem to prefer feeding them with a slightly "coloured" input signal from the Sparkos Op-amps. In the end the user probably does not really care where in his chain the magic happens, so... what. Nice video, looking forward to your release of the interview!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks

[@Silverlining1111]

Hi Harley, what if compare to SMSL VMV A1? And off topics, which Sibelius speaker combo (wood & drive colour, with/out stand) is your favourite? thanks for your share. 🙏

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi. The two amplifiers are quite different. The Purify is very dynamic and extremely detailed. Whereas the VMV is ‘laid back’. The difference is not massive but it’s there. My favourite combination / colour mostly depends on the room. I have always been fond of the Naturals because you’re basically seeing the wood ‘as is’. I like to have them on their stands because the bass is a bit more detailed and faster. The cone choice with natural is SG (for me personally). I am also very keen on medium oak, over the years it goes darker and becomes very warm and golden brown looking and is fabulous with the CG. Hope that helps?

[@wickie4801]

For me this is my perfect amplifier for small money: BC ACOUSTIQUE EX 214. Yes, it is entry level. Yes it makes sound (is not neutral like Cambridge AXA 35).But it makes great fun to hear your music. Bass and highs emphasized, much "punch". Yes, it's a subjective view, but very good for beginners if you are not a neutral-analytic fan.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment. Indeed everything in this hobby is subjective. Enjoy it!

[@jeffkalina7727]

The new class D GanFet amps currently available seem well suited for bass applications in particular, right?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Jeff, after speaking with Bruno on the topic if GanFet, I am not so sure. + if there is nothing wrong with a design, Ie it is technically ’perfect’, then it next comes down to economics, the environment and ease of manufacture. There cones a time, like with quartz watches, that one stops talking about accuracy.

[@user-ys4og2vv8k]

The highly acclaimed NAD M23 is built on this architecture with Purifi Audio's Eigentakt design, a solution for non-electricians and do-it-yourselfers.

[@PearlAcoustics]

It’s a very elegant solution too. Very well built

[@ravichandran4589]

Hi. Great info. What’s the speakers we. Are seeing in your audio room. Brand and model

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks! The loudspeakers are our Sibelius Loudspeakers by Pearl Acoustics. Pearlacoustics.com

[@revensteed9539]

Ive had my budget Acoustic Solutions amp for 20 years. It has only bass and treble eq. I wouldn't mind an upgrade.

[@PearlAcoustics]

A really good amplifier can make a difference. Good luck in your search, if in doubt - stick with what you have. 😉

[@SteveWille]

Harley: As a mental exercise, are these amps (minus the buffer and op-amp stages) so perfect that you consider placing them inside your Sibelius speakers and, say, providing a balanced connection to be feed by user’s choice of pre-stage?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Steve, that’s an interesting concept. Unfortunately, we can’t put anything inside our loudspeakers, but I am extremely interested in exploring the topic further.

[@mike_lowndes]

Ninja’d. maybe bolt them to the back? Make the buffer a plug in module.

[@AdiMaco]

Of course, I first saw this part, then the interview with Bruno, after which I came here for a comment. There is practically no amplification, amplifiers do not amplify anything, they just facilitate the source signal to modulate in amplitude the current from the power supply which reaches the speaker in the audio speaker or the terminals of the audio speaker. This is the secret, practically and theoretically, the audio/musical quality of an amplifier depends a lot on the quality of the current from the amplifier's power supply. A linear source, possibly stabilized, will produce a much better, more musical sound, than a PWM (switching) source. I studied a lot and even assembled a few amplifiers in my youth. Of course, a good preamp, again, with a very good current source is very important. Bruno said that he is trying to create a module that is no longer influenced by the quality of the power supply, the current source, which in theory may be valid, but in practice is not possible. Think about what I said above, at the terminals of the speakers, from the amplifier, it is actually the current from the power supply of the amplifier that is modulated by the input signal and not the input signal as such. Real amplification is called resonance, and again, it is only encountered in the analog realm, in nature, or in analog electronics. When the soprano hits a high note with force, the empty glass on the table shatters as it resonates amplifying the frequency of the sound emitted by the soprano. So, if you want to build an amplifier around Eigentakt modules, you need a very good quality linear current source, possibly stabilized, then the best buffer can be made with tubes and not transistors or opamps.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your contribution to the topic

[@georgeswanson9483]

I love your talks, they're very enjoyable and thought provoking but I have to say I've heard this before - anyone old enough to remember Julian Hirsch and his claim that "all (competently designed) power amplifiers sound the same" or the assertion that CD's were "perfect sound forever" will cast a rather leery eye at the assertion that these modules are "perfect". Perfect for whom? Me? You? Bob down the street? Everyone has their own idea of what perfect is. Round and round it goes.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi George, thanks for every kind words. I am not sure if you watched to the end, but I clearly state that one should not sell any of their existing equipment. I am talking about scientists mathematical advancement that allows a tiny amplifying module do something quite extraordinary and that has the potential to become ‘generic’ just like a quartz movement in a watch. After all it’s about music. The science is interesting for me.

[@jonathandavis9507]

Hi, Harley. Assuming we have found the ‘perfect’ power amplifier, I’ve been wondering about the importance of the preamp. I had noticed you had a Quad Artera. Did you find it adequate? I’ve been wondering if our money and focus is better spent in the amplifier, preamplifier, or equally. Thank you for the helpful videos.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Dear Jonathan. I wish there was a simple answer to your excellent question. I personally like the idea of there being a ‘perfect’ (or totally acceptable) power amplifier and then all we need to focus on is the front end. However, the real focus needs to be the music and one’s enjoyment of it. In that regard, in my home set up, my Quad Artera does a wonderful job it performs absolutely as one would require, so much so, I don’t give it a second thought. The trouble comes when you are unhappy with the sound of your system. If you have the perfect power amplifier, then you can rule that out and try and focus on the weakest link. All said and done, a preamplifier can bake a big difference, more than a DAC or a streamer, and that’s where one’s focus could go to. (Assuming one’s happy with ones loudspeakers). Sorry if I haven’t answered your question sufficiently. I will come back to the topic in a future video.

[@wyup]

Harley, which preamplifier did you use to evaluate the VTV Purifi? I'm not sure I heard it in the video. Thanks for a great review.@@PearlAcoustics

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@wyup hi, thanks for your question and kind appreciation. I tried it with a few pre-amplifiers: the Project RS Pre (which has a solid state and also a tube output), a Musical Fidelity M8 Pre, and a Sugden. It does reflect what you point at it. I hope this helps? Best wishes from Belgium

[@robh9079]

Guess you are aware of Schitt Freya - a pre amp with switchable tube/SS/and passive modes. Probably not quite what you're looking for though the concept is there. Neurochrome has made a Purifi specific buffer too. Always thought class D had the potential to 'pass the buck' of the sound sig down to the buffer/pre or even DAC.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Yes indeed, thanks!

[@wyup]

I thought of Freya+ to this Purifi amp to drive it in bypass mode, but Freya+ balanced output impedance is 600Ω, too high for Purifi 4.4kΩ without buffer. Plus I think you can't bypass the VTV input buffer and its opamps/tube. It's either 7 or 14db gain by the internal jumper.

[@tomaseriksson4533]

I wonder how the Purifi Eigentakt would sound with the buffer replaced with a Lundahl audio transformer? Will the audio transformer give the same warm sound as a tube? I will use it with Klipsch horn speaker so I don't think I need more gain then 13dB.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Dear Thomas, thank you for your interesting question and contribution. I am not a specialist in this area. A colleague suggested that you would still need an active gain stage as with the transformer it will drop the gain a bit more. So although it might be suitable for very sensitive speakers, like yours, with a suitable preamp, it’s quite a specialist offering. If you have the knowledge, why not give it a try? I would be very interested to hear the results.

[@adrianmuino3412]

Mmm, interesting point. Can we say that a "perfect" sound is not equal to sound "good", but also that to sound "good" is not equal to sound "perfect"? I think so, and as you, I also enjoy both ways of listening. Bottom line one amp is not enough ;)

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Adrian. That’s what I am saying. If I record classical ensembles with Bruel Kjaer B&K test microphones, that have a ‘perfect’ response, no one would employ me! 😉

[@hudo]

Great, objective, interesting and informative video as usual. I had hypex nc500 based (Bruno's work also) amp with same modules, and used it with the tube preamp (primaluna), just to get that musicality back.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks. Your kind appreciation and comment is much appreciated

[@wyup]

Interesting. Any Primaluna preamp is three times the price of the Hypex.. 😞

[@thomasandersen1784]

I got that. My Lavardin: pre/MONO combo, doesen´t come any better (imo). why? They play music, and as an musician myself (drummer), i know about real life sounding instruments. Owned my amps for 8-9 years, and they stay. Somehow, i found my end-game set, and that is very satisfying. Cheers from Denmark (Thomas 53 years)

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Thomas, thanks for your best wishes. Isn’t it great when you compile a system that really meets your needs and expectations. That must be the goal of many! Enjoy,

[@ralop4573]

So when is your amp coming to market?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hopefully mid Summer (fingers crossed)

[@maxcasci7432]

Can you please write the name and the exact model you tried in the video...? Thank you

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, sure… it’s this one: VTV AMPLIFIER Stereo Purifi Audio 1ET400A Amplifier with VTV Vacuum Tube Buffer

[@ptg01]

Class D !!!

[@summerforever6736]

He did ot want to say that lol Seems like

[@henriksrensen3220]

I have listened to the Benchmark AHB2 power amp which is one of the very best meausering amplifiers in the World. But it was not for me. Strange analytical sound, thin sounding midrange. I now own the Gryphon Diablo 120 and i am very happy listening to music

[@chrish7540]

Curious what speakers and preamp/dac you are using. I have the benchmark stack into Von Schweikert E3 Mark IIs and I am quite happy with it. Very musical sound and I find the gear a chameleon that changes with the recording. Exactly what I'm personally looking for.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks. It’s so nice when one finally settle on a system and can simply listen to music.

[@daviddrake6875]

@@chrish7540 Harley: Albert Von Schweikert RIP Albert designs his loudspeakers to reproduce the inverse sound of an omnidirectional microphone. His midranges are plus or minus 1 DB . Maybe he compensates ( tunes ?) his crossover like you have done with your designing and tuning your creation.

[@dougleydorite]

Are the prices for your speakers public?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Dougley, sure. Please visit the Pearl Acoustics website. You’ll find everything there. And the team can always advise you. Best wishes, H.

[@chrisvst]

I have a question : does the Purify not ‘perfectly’ amplify the distortion in the tubes before ? Or am I getting this wrong ?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Chris, No you’re getting this 100% correct. The Eigentakt module amplifies exactly what goes into it. But it’s the ‘distortion’ or coloration of the tube that makes it sound ‘nice’. And that’s the problem. For example, test microphones that are technically ‘flat’ ie correct, are no use for recording classical or acoustic instruments, they just sound wrong. And that’s the problem. I hope I am making sense? Somehow ’perfect’ does not sound right.

[@chrisvst]

@@PearlAcoustics Harley, you are making perfect sense. Although from a technical point of view this all is very difficult to explain. But the essence is that at the end of the day it does not matter. As long as we can enjoy our music the way we like it.

[@contemporaryartist6542]

Please build one. I covet your loudspeakers also - so tuned to them. But I won’t be selling my First Watt amp or Cornwalls. I might just demote them.

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀👍😀

[@audiotomb]

How can you say one amp is ideal It is all amplifier/speaker synergy and room size I prefer Single End Triode (no waveform switching / strong power supply), nos tubes - Very high efficiency conventional loud speakers

[@PearlAcoustics]

I can’t and I don’t think I did. It’s all down to preference and it depends how you look at the topic. Hopefully my video gets that message across clearly. Enjoy your system.

[@mrcoolsun3142]

Interesting video. My take is that there isn't any 'perfect' anything, we all have differing tastes, likes, dislikes, passions etc. And will one amplifier match 'electrically' with all speakers, preamps, cables etc. Plus, for many folks, a big part of the hobby is seeking 'perfection' by constantly trying new/different components. My Mantra has always been "If what I'm hearing is colouration then bring on the whole rainbow" - willbewill (Lenco Heaven Admin)

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀👍

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

I have to wonder just when it was that colouration became a dirty word in audio hi-fi? Rainbows are beautiful to behold and so should any colouration as long as it puts a smile on the face of the listener. My only real wish would be some simplification in finding just the right colour. As much as I enjoy some trial and error in this hobby of mine I might be lost without having the likes of Harley and a few others to lead me in the right direction.

[@davidcross890]

So in what world does this set of designs really stack up as comparative in purity of actual state of the art complex signals designed gear...not just measure under controlled distortion tests but gauntlet level testing for ALL DISTORTIONS?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi David, I think in testing, on any level, the Eigentakt will outperform any kind of classic AB or class A design. But as I say in my video, that does not necessarily mean they sound ‘better’ than what we currently like. They do their job, amplifying what goes in but what we humans like is often not perfection. Our brains adapt to what we are familiar with and it can be hard for us to adapt. I certainly would never use a technically ‘flat’ B&K test microphone in any of my recordings because they just don’t sound ‘nice’. I know it’s mad but true.

[@humanitech]

It's fascinating that sources, amps and speakers are often loved, admired, chosen and cherished for their sonic and technical failings (sound signatures) or very considered and added character colourations and flavourings. And many still claim that vinyl is still sonically better and superior to digital media ....even though technically on paper the bandwidth is more limited on vinyl!? Again, people love tube or class A amps even though they often measure very poorly and worse than many cheaper super clean class D products....yet class D still seem not quite as harmonically musical although technically amazing. Therefore...as sound reproduction is highly emotional , technical and subjective ....for me a good tube buffer/pre amp or class A preamp often works well with class d power modules.... But the real breakthrough for me would be to get a very talented programner to create an amp simulation/modeller module or chipset - like in current digital guitar (modelling) amps - where they could create or replicate many known, renowned and loved tube or class A amp sound simulations or variants ...Now that would be the real game changer for most people! Except for the purists who will still want and desire the authentic things! But imagine being able to switch between a having a Pass labs, McIntosh, luxman, accuphase, prima luna, krell, naim, hegel, meridian, quad sounds etc, etc.... and get close to perhaps 90% of their sound signatures ...or be able to tweak them further ...wow! But that said .. when considering the other sonic variables and the mixed diversity of good and bad recordings .. the hobby still remains a highly compromised and fickle process...with moments of pure bliss ...followed by moments of sonic pain 😂😂😂😂

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your interesting contribution to the discussion. I would certainly like to try the DSP simulator amplifier! 😉

[@jeffkalina7727]

Well done sir. It sounds like the amp you described will become the industry standard soon if not the industry best. Zero distortion may not be the goal for musicality. As we know Nelson Pass uses some 2nd or 3rd order distortion. Why? Because that is what his test audience prefers. Me Too. It is why I have a Pass INT25. Sounds better even to my tired ears.

[@davidcross890]

Best possibly for low cost limited space but for industry best....come on let's get Real

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed, you’re absolutely right. PassLabs amplifiers are an absolute joy to own and to listen to.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi David, it might surprise you that the professional recording industry has been using class D designs for decades. You’re not likely to see a class A tube amplifier in any recording studio for playback purposes. Except for fun. Even then, there’s just no room in the mixing room, and the one thing we don’t want in there is heat.

[@giampierovecchio2681]

it's just the difference between a coffee-flavored drink and a real espresso coffee, some may even love the former more but real things are real things as well as substitutes. Enjoy

[@davidcross890]

@@giampierovecchio2681 for me only the fully authentic real deal best will suffice. Can't stand second or third rate... especially pretenders

[@BartgEU]

Do you think connecting these to lyngdorf digital amplification wouldn't be kind of fully controlled solution?

[@PearlAcoustics]

I am a big fan of Lyngdorf equipment. I particularly like the little 1120 because of its capabilities. And I like to couple it with other amplifiers. I have not yet tried it with the Purify. Indeed it could be a very interesting combination

[@BartgEU]

@@PearlAcoustics I am just ahead of testing all in one's line-up, as moved to streaming almost entirely. 1120 is on top of my list, with only add-on to be proper headphone amp. My question comes for potential future proofing :)

[@howardskeivys4184]

I think the terminology you’re looking for is:- ‘harmonic richness’ or, perhaps, ‘acoustic mass’!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Howard, I like your idea of ‘harmonic richness’ or maybe ‘harmonic detail’? It’s about hearing all the information that I know is there and not just an approximation. Thanks for the tip.

[@herethere2518]

Disdain for Seiko, "quite rightly?... ? (questionable comment !) Wires in that amp seem quite sloppy compared to the neatly braided lines in the components I have opened up! Perhaps an interesting video(?), though I feel it had tunnel vision. Hopefully subsequent parts to this series will expand on this one with insight relative to other historically-respected amps (such as McIntosh MC275, etc.)

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, indeed my comment was not very well phrased. I felt bad about that but it was too difficult to edit out. Absolutely no disdain about Seiko, they are great value for money. And I would have no issue in wearing one.

[@nicktube3904]

I am curious to hear an honest answer. Despite being a huge fan of high efficiency loudspeakers combined with a pure class A SET, it would be great if we can get this magic from a simple small and efficient box. How far are we from this with this product in 2023? (Again this is genuine interest.)

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Nick. There are SET amps and there are SET amps. Ie some are noisy and harsh, others are dull and muddy and some as close as what I call perfection, meaning I love listening to music with them. The vtv purify with tube buffer is incredible, if it is driven by a high quality (nice sounding pre) it’s better than most SET’s because it has dynamics snd control. But these things are still very subjective. I hope this helps? Just remember: what goes in comes out but louder.

[@nicktube3904]

@@PearlAcoustics thank you for your honest answer. I will give it a try.

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@nicktube3904 many manufacturers offer a 30 day return policy. That might be best for you.

[@ralop4573]

or will it be an active sibelius?

[@PearlAcoustics]

No active Sibelius 😉 but we can always plant an amplifier on the back of the stands 😉.

[@annebokma4637]

Sound isn't the only thing that makes a perfect amplifier, price, looks, power consumption etc. All factors that would make the perfect amplifier. My current amplifiers have been in my system for 30 years now. Perfect? Probably not, perfect for me? Absolutely

[@PearlAcoustics]

You’re absolutely right. So pleased you have long serving equipment. That’s exactly how it should be. At home I run my 1976 QUAD, it had an overhaul in 2015, but not been touched since (and I cannot imagine it would ever need to be).

[@annebokma4637]

@@PearlAcoustics quad is nice quality equipment. I have ESL 57, love them. Driving them with Harman Kardon citation 12 deluxe and citation 25. Thorens turntable and Marantz cd80. All at least 30 y.o. and had them serviced once. Bought ifi dac and BT. Because I think these areas will get more innovation in the coming years, so didn't want to spend much. But impressed with the build and Sonic qualities specially for the price. The piece of gear I use most is my hifiman Deva pro. Love the utility for daily driving my sonic needs. Bt/dac/conventional it does it all.

[@barneyrubble9309]

Isnt Purifi the audio research & development company owned by Peter Lyngdorf. ?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi. Yes indeed. Although I think it’s a consortium of owners, including it’s designer, Bruno Putzeys.

[@summerforever6736]

You are talking like you were going to use it for some proper speakers with 3 or 4 drivers! You used it for 2 4 inch drivers how much power do you really need for those maybe a 10W tube amp?

[@tnasburypl]

Class D amplifiers are amazing. Indeed. It is difficult to imagine that they sound so good being efficient as they are. As class D amplifiers are being developed? Mains voltages will be of concern. I am in the United States. 120 Volts? Something will give.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Voltages are not an issue. High quality class d amplifiers, all have mains smoothing circuits. In fact you can see a simple 5v smartphone charger as a class d amplifier in reverse….

[@tnasburypl]

@@PearlAcoustics I have so many questions about them. Thanks for the input.

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@tnasburypl you’re welcome

[@tnasburypl]

@@PearlAcoustics No worries, I as a person who spends a lot of money on amplification? Seems high end speakers can be found at relatively lower cost verses amplifiers. i am intrigued. In so am following such things.

[@gregmatula9749]

Amplifiers should be neutral. If you want to add color put it in the preamp or other specialized unit that can be varied depending on the room, speaker, and recording.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Greg, I do indeed think that there is where we (the industry) are headed.

[@backrack01]

Agreed. Some say spend the most on speakers.. I say.. especially for a person who has only been in this hobby a couple yrs.. put ur money into a great neutral power amp. How do you know what sound you like when you bring speakers home but can't properly drive them? I went with the Coda No.8 high current neutral amplifier. Built to last 3 decades or more. :)

[@wyup]

Well, to me a perfect amp would be the one that only requieres passive attenuation, not any color or character. Tubes wouldn't be needed. Neutral to me is the real representation of the recording, not lean or clinical. Usually neutral is a meant for that in reviews. If we need a tube preamp to approximate the actual sound, the amp is not right (you add to take back). Usually A/AB class amps don't require a tube preamp (do they add color or distorsion themselves or are they just 'neutral'?). I want the sound to be as I hear it when I go to classical concerts. A wire with gain is the mantra, but in reality you need a preamp synergy (with gain, color and impedance matching).

[@soundman2604]

Is it 40 amps at 1/100th of a second?

[@PearlAcoustics]

I honestly cannot answer that question. The response should instantaneous, for how long, I simply don’t know. I guess you could ask someone at Purify?

[@carlitomelon4610]

Perfection?? Vanity! I just need my systems to get close enough for my imagination to take me the rest of the way to recreating the musical event... Every month I roll the valves or caps in my Musical Paradise preamp for a change in flavour. (A wise listener realizes that all recorded music has already been coloured by the recording process. We just add our own in playback to taste;-) A valve buffer in front of a "perfect" amplifier module? Noted:-) Anthony Michaelson of Musical Fidelity called it "The ineffable magic of valves". Why fight it? Question: If the modules are so perfect, why not daisy chain them to get the gain required? Is that possible? Thanks Mr. Lovegroove. Looking forward to the designer interview. 🎵🎶😉🎶🎵

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Carlito. Thanks again for your kind appreciation and interesting comment. For technical reasons daisy chaining them probably won’t work, but I love the approach! I think The problem is that we have to add some colour or distortion to make it sound ‘nicer’! How crazy is that?!

[@carlitomelon4610]

@@PearlAcoustics Hello again Harley 🙂 We should stop pretending to aspire to sterile "accuracy". Beauty is Truth! There I said it. Let the AI and Amir listen to the specs;-)

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@carlitomelon4610 😀

[@Jdvc-yd5tx]

My grandmother used to knit sweaters. Some people like to solve crossword or chess puzzles, some like to MAKE them. For $100 you can buy dozens of Transistors hundreds of Capacitors and thousands of Resistors. Instead of watching the NFL, tinker and make a power amp - it's as easy as baking a cake and it will change the way you look at humanity forever..... ⚛

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀

[@iloveaviation-burgerclub-a8145]

Harley, you are pin pointing it in ebery video as I think. "Best for you" is something completely different to "Perfect" in a physical/technical context. As an example lets go to guitars as I am playing guitar myself. Back then a brand called Fender did the Strat in the 50s and it was really revoluting the instrument and changed music of some type forever. But hear me: it is not for me. Because some other guy then came up with the Les Paul and there was so much more body in the sound. Then they spent time on pickups and strings and varied wood, fret and neck and hardware but lets drop that. Then there was Jackson, Gretsch, ESP, Paul Reed Smith, Ibanez, Yamaha and hell lots of others. And believe it or not they all have signatures for some of the best musicians on the planet from back then to our present times. Know what? Any of the instruments sound different for many reasons. Well, I speak about the origin of sound and not the reproduction so some may claim "I want to hear exactly the same as when it is played in front of me" but this is impossible. Because then you need more than one direction to emmit sound as most speakers are only emit towards you. And how to do it when reproducing an ensemble of 35 instruments? So, any attempt to make something "perfect" for a technician means comparing input to output and tuning arround until there is only different amplitude. You can do this from record to speaker mic. But not from concert hall to speaker mic. You can guarantee that the input is only amlified but what does that mean? It means that you get in contact with the recording engineer but what does your room to this? Was it mixed for modern smart devices or class A retro amps? Now here comes the conclusion: as there is no perfect electric guitar which btw is plugged into hundreds of different amps and effect setups there is no perfect amp nor a perfect signal chain nor speaker or living room. Get ear phones if you like to and don't feel the base in your stomach anymore. My advise is to focus on the music, the playing, the artist impression, the timing of amband and look forma system that makes it sound enjoyable with high dynamic and good timing. Therefor you need a wel designed amp with lots of resources regarding to power and and detail and a speaker that really plays. If it has amber glowing stuff or blue light, tons of marketing slogans and perfect looking frequency diagrams - who cares? Listen to it. For a certain time. Does it feel great? Is it relaxing or stressing? Do your favourit songs sound impressive and lovely or does it just play with jazz you don't listen to maybe? Trust your cognition and d.g.a.f. for data sheets and audio magazines. My advise. And maybe it is a better journey to find new music than looking for better equipment all the time.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you for your excellent contribution to the topic. I am totally aligned with you, however, if we take an automotive analogy, life is not always about the destination, or even getting there as fast as possible. The destination and the journey are inter-linked. How we get somewhere (and the route we take, and what mode of transport we choose, + the type snd make or car, bicycle, walking shoe etc. ) all add up to our version of life. I chose a ‘Godin’ electric guitar because it sounded wonderful, had a fantastic action and had very innovative machine heads. I set out to buy a Fender but I wouldn’t swap my Godin for the most expensive Fender or Gibson. It’s my guitar and it gives me what I want.

[@iloveaviation-burgerclub-a8145]

@@PearlAcoustics ❤ You really stick deep in the automotive. I like that. A 911 is a wonderful car if it is at least 25 years old (like to learn from mistakes instead of giving input to a computer...). But for a family trip to Norway I prefere my Bulli Multivan. Same to audio. If I like to intensively listen to i.e. Rock I chose my living room system. But recording is done with my linear amp and 2 way monitors. Have fun with your very enjoyable Godin and keep up the good work. Imagine: how to classify the reproduction quality of pure electronic music? 😊 I guess frequency plots 🤣

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@iloveaviation-burgerclub-a8145 😂👍

[@RogierYou]

Ehh anyone noticed how Harvey can snap his fingers with both 🙌 perfectly over and over again 😅

[@PearlAcoustics]

😂

[@crispyfillet4792]

Not wishing to sound critical but I struggle with the concept of what is being called a "perfect" amp being coloured by an op amp. The mere fact that the two tested made the amp sound different regardless of whether better or worse means that although the final stage may be "perfect" it will always be affected by the op amp. And that Harley prefers, what I assume is a more "coulored" , as in less that totally transparent, sound means that to strive or even care about "perfect" is a waste of time. For what it's worth I would love to hear the op amp Harley liked less as for me I love the transparency and ability to dig into the minute detail.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, thanks for your comment. The title of this video is deliberately provocative because of exactly what you say. There should be a pure voltage gain without any colouration. But then, when there is, somehow it is not so pleasant to listen to. At least now we can have options….

[@crispyfillet4792]

@@PearlAcoustics Not so pleasant for everyone. From what I've heard and read over the years audiophiles/ music lovers seem to fall into two basic camps. Those who seek utter transparency and detail vs ( not necessarily adversarial) those who prefer a warmer sound. I bought a Denon DL103R based on the positive reviews and was rather unimpressed by its lack of high frequency detail resolution. I could appreciate why some might like it though. I replaced it with a less popular if a little more expensive Audio Technica 0C9XSL which ticks all "my" boxes. I would live to hear live both iterations of the amp reviewed to see if a similar experience resulted. Thanks for your reply. 👍

[@josefserf1926]

Seiko makes such beautiful watches that there is literally no need for anything more expensive. Snobbery is not a virtue, it never was.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, I totally get your point. However, the humans’ desire for beautiful things seems to go back to the beginning of time. I am not sure if it is necessarily snobbery or simple ‘desire’? However we call it, it can be a curse.

[@barkatthemoonlunatic1715]

Any name brand amplifier, around $400 up, is the perfect amplifier nowadays. Yes, the do have different wattage so some will play louder than others. But they all sound the same.

[@Ricky-cl5bu]

My friend has a Naim unity atom and Jbl L100 s and he’s happy with it he’s no interest in changing it

[@PearlAcoustics]

Absolutely… if he’s happy with his system, there’s no reason to change.

[@Ricky-cl5bu]

He’s been in the Hifi game for over 40 years in retail and has heard everything and is retired and this is the system he picked up, he says every type of music sounds good on it

[@mauriciomucino1015]

Is that a Decware?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Yes indeed, we’ll spotted! It’s a Torri V. I am running it with KT66’s and it’s every bit as good as people say it is. (I will most likely do a video on it one of these days).

[@mauriciomucino1015]

@@PearlAcoustics that Is great i am considering on one myself, btw I has the oportunitty to listen to your Sibelius alongside an Audionote cobra AND it was one of The Best systems i heard in my life

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@mauriciomucino1015 oh that’s great to hear. So pleased you could experience that.

[@RobertHeiduk]

Don’t you think that decision making is mainly based on marketing and social status?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment. That’s very true, with regards marketing. However, I know a few very wealthy people that would not invest in an expensive hifi (even if the have several houses)! And just have a kitchen radio and a couple of Sonos boxes or possibly a Bose or Zeppelin unit. I also think we are all susceptible to marketing to a certain extent. Especially me, I like a good story and some kind of human connection to the products (in general) I invest in.

[@friedmule5403]

Are we not on the way to having to embrace the equalizer? I mean, let's say we create the perfect amplifier, with no distortion, coloring, noise or anything else, a perfect clean sound. I think that nobody would like that sound and would miss the "good old days". Except if we give the user a way to adjust the sound to what that person likes, a perfect tone controls that made the sound perfect for that particular owner.

[@PearlAcoustics]

You make a very good point here, and only if it were so easy. The problem (or challenge) is not just eq, it’s more complex. I remember investing in a very sophisticated EQ machine in the 1980’s thinking I could change the timbre of my system. I was wrong. I could fine tune the bass the mid and treble but I couldn’t make two different voices singing the same note sound like each other. We have distortion, and soundstage and phasing and all sorts of ill defined science going on. That’s why the last stages of this challenge are so difficult and companies spend a fortune trying to reach their imaginary sense of perfection. But with this module it makes it more possible, without the use of DSP’s

[@cremersalex]

Is it Seeko or Sayko?

[@Crmsnraider]

Psycho

[@emilspec1227]

Seiko (/ˈseɪkoʊ/ SAY-koh, Japanese: [seːkoː])

[@ptg01]

Seiko.....

[@volpedo2000]

Seh-ee-koh

[@summerforever6736]

Lol I was like what is he saying its a Seiko for Japanes sake

[@einarbk885]

obviously theese amps are made to be connected with XLR`s that can output 4V, if you put in RCA then no wonder you need more voltage. also the tube buffer will only increase distortion, defeats the purpose of this amp in the first place.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed. The distortion (2nd. Order) that tubes make is weirdly appreciated. We also have run the purify directly from high output pre amplifiers, some natch very well.

[@kaymanul]

Not even 4V would be enough. You would need 10V from preamp to feed them directly for optimal performance. Otherwise, you still need to use the interface for gain.

[@crazyprayingmantis5596]

The reason why we go to see live music is because it's not perfect, I don't want music to be perfect, I want it to be pleasurable, I don't want to hear it, I want to feel it.

[@CraftAero]

Well said. And in the home setting, I want to listen to (focus on) the music not the equipment.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Absolutely. I make these videos for two reasons: to help people make informed choices when building a system and 2. Because HiFi is a hobby in in itself for many people, just like cars or watches can be. At the end of the day cars take us somewhere and watches tell the time. And HiFi allows us to enjoy music from the beginning of recorded history. Our own little Time Machine. The only thing that can beat it is live music.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Absolutely!

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

@@PearlAcoustics As someone who has been going to concerts for about 50 of my 66 years of age there are exceptions to live music being the thing to beat. I would much rather listen to my hi-fi system in the comfort of my home than sitting in the nosebleed seats of a gigantic stadium that was designed more for watching sporting events. Live music in a venue with wonderful acoustics, sitting or standing in the sweet spot is a different matter all together and one that I wouldn't trade for any hi-fi audio system.

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@richardwestmoreland4796 absolutely! I firmly believe that If you really want to listen to and study music, there’s nowhere better than home. If you want an ‘event’ then one must travel outside 😀

[@davidatrakchi2707]

I find audio to be somehow like a religion, and, as we know logic cannot bring it down. I heard some saying that they will never allow opamp in their signal path, nor will they allow any high frequency switching power supply near their precious gear,some invest in crazy cables and so on. And now you want me to kick my class A F6 out? And who will heat my room in the cold long winter nights? 😊(said the guy from the Middle East) So let’s all find time to listen and enjoy the music

[@PearlAcoustics]

Absolutely David! I am not sure if you watched to the end but I say exactly just that! Do not sell any existing equipment. I use my class A amps in the winter and class D in the summer. I agree too that many people obsess and they create their own religion to justify their purchasing decisions and to keep them ‘from straying’ back into their HiFi shop. 😉 as I say at the end of each of my talks. ‘Enjoy the music!’

[@davidatrakchi2707]

@@PearlAcoustics I have watched your video until it's end, don't worry. My Pass F6 (self built from a kit) is well hidden as bescribed by you, mainly because of it's look which is a huge finned box which according to "she who must be obeyed" should be hidden from the bublic. The Important thing is we do enjoy listening to the music together, I'm the only one at home allowed to operate the setup by the way

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@davidatrakchi2707 😉👍

[@AdiMaco]

Let's design the Perfect Wabi Sabi Amplifier, Perfect Imperfect Amplifier, TPIA Amplifier. The question is what do we want to listen to, sound or music? If we want big S sound, then we go to Class D, Class AB (A) with transistors, to opamps and industrial modules, to computer design and making the modules by robotic arms, in China or Taiwan or elsewhere. Yes, music is sound, all music is sound, but not everything that is sound is music. So, do we want to listen to the perfect reproduction of the sound of a violin, or a piano, or do we want to listen to the music of Bach or Beethoven or even the music created by Daft Punk and Radiohead? I ask because it is not the same thing. Of course, the audio industry has pushed things towards sound reproduction, with a detailed, very clean sound, but that fails to reproduce music. Few amplifiers manage to play the music and they are all tubed. But what is music? What is art? Music is an expression of the soul of the artist, the composer, and then the performer. There exists, between Bach and the performer or even between the members of Pink Floyd or Radiohead a connection that eludes reason, eludes rational explanation. In fact, the great truth is that we don't even know where the great works of art, the greatest musical creations, come from. You want an amplifier that is created by the human soul and not by machines. This is the only way we can connect with the magic, the ineffable, and the transcendence of art. Of course, artistic thinking and that kraft and technique of what we do with our hands is part of the process of creating an amplifier as a work of art. You want to use tubes because they are noble, they have a soul, they breathe and you want to use electrical components, capacitors, and resistors, of the best quality, not those for industry. The so-called boutique components. The creative process is good to be slow, preferably at night, accompanied by a little wine or noble cognac. You already have an example, Decware Zen Torii. You should also test some Shindo, Even a Jadis or AudioNote UK, Kondo. For me, silicon is too communist, too proletarian, too egalitarian. I can't drink wine made by robots! In the end, the technical measurements don't even matter, the music does. The amplifier must know how to create that soul connection with the music, which is a transcendent connection.

[@PearlAcoustics]

You raise some interesting points here but I think a number of people could rightly challenge some of your ideas 😉 I know where you are coming from, especially on the topic of ‘where music comes from’. H

[@AdiMaco]

@@PearlAcoustics, I am an ALL-Tube guy😀, I apologize if I have overstepped!

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@AdiMaco 😀 in my opinion, that’s what it is to be human, to be passionate and to express one’s opinions. Let’s hope we receive a counter argument that will challenge and enlighten. As long as we stay respectful to one another, then no harm can ever be done… it’s the music that binds us.

[@Tacet137]

Its time to get some grip on reality and blind test the opamps

[@scottwolf8633]

Status acquisition and product differentiation via cost? Say it ain't so in this OCD hobby. Yes, there are those with discretionary income who keep their noses in the air, for bragging rights(sic). The Genesis Advanced Technologies, Prime Loudspeaker being an example. It's midrange, a 72 inch long, line source, dipole, push pull, planar magnetic, used to be available at a retail price of 700 US bucks, apiece. They are no longer available to the ordinary consumer but are employed in the aforementioned loudspeaker that in 2022 sold for 680,000 dollars/pair. Yet, your assertion, a Class D module may be the most perfect amp, based upon the minimum criteria measurement data, of THD is fraught with difficult to process assumptions, from my experience. At least if you're going to place such an emphasis on measurements, illustrate square wave performance at 10 Hz, 1000 Hz, 10KHz, and 100KHz. Then perform spectral analysis for noise. What type of semiconductor is employed? SiC, GaN, based semiconductors. Or BAs, fairly recently synthesized in the Lab with Thermal and both increased Electron and Hole mobility over available semiconductors, and quite superior to Si based devices. What about different Topologies which eschew efficiency for certain sound characteristics such as Class A, both push-pull, or Single Ended in solid state devices. Another alternative, a quite different approach, the Valve OTL, both push pull AB and Class A, Single Ended amplifier. So are the replaceable, modules, i.e., tube/op amp the Input and driver stages? No such thing as, "Perfection", as subjectively each individual will seek and find their preferred audio, "Nirvana", and We are still so ignorant of the whole auditory experience. Just my two cents. BTW; I build my own electronics/speakers, used to employ MOSFETS, biased at 4 Amps, Class A, push pull, with 375,000uf of double bypassed, unregulated output stage, Capacitance, power supplies, each channel with a separate 800VA toroid, HEXFRED, ultra high-speed, soft recovery Diodes with snubber caps and series resistors, for rectification. Vishay resistors in the audio signal pathway, Caddock metal films on the MOSFETs Source, with separate regulated PS for each channel's, input and driver stage. The whole nine yards. Discovered Transcendent Sound's OTL kits, gave up solid state and never looked back. Also, I bought the first iteration of Dave Graebener's aforementioned planar magnetics for 1085 bucks/pair, shipped. I'm a cheap b@sta@rd but I dig on the Notes and play a left handed Strat for the last 47 years. Enjoy your interesting observations.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your contribution to the discussion Scott.