Sugden amplifiers - What's so special about them?

It's not so often one gets the chance to compare four different amplifiers from the same manufacturer. In this talk, I share my thoughts on why I like Sugden amplifiers so much and the things you should take into account before purchasing an amplifier from Sugden.
The music chosen for the comparisons at the end was: 'I've got you under my skin' sung by Clare Teal with the Syd Lawrence Orchestra. (More info from www.chasingthedragonrecords.co.uk)
The Sugden amplifiers covered:
Sugden A21: Specifications
Line Input Sensitivity 170mV for max. out
Power Output 23 Watts into 8 Ohms
Frequency Response + -1dB 10Hz-20kHz
Bandwidth 6Hz-200kHz
Signal to Noise less than 83dB
Gross Weight (packed) 11kgs
Dimensions 92 x 430 x 350mm hwd
Sugden A21SE: Specifications
Line Input Sensitivity 110mV @ zero attenuation for full output
Power Output 30 Watts into 8 Ohms both channels working
40 Watts into 4 Ohms both channels working
Frequency Response + -1dB 12Hz-141kHz
Bandwidth 6Hz-280kHz
Signal to Noise Less than 90dB
Gross Weight (packed) 15kgs
Dimensions 115 x 430 x 360mm hwd
Sugden SPA-4: Specifications
Input Sensitivity 1Volt for full output
Power Output 75 Watts into 4 Ohms both channels working
Frequency Response + -0dB 15Hz-30kHz
Bandwidth -3dB points 2Hz-200kHz
Signal to Noise less than 85dB
Gross Weight (packed) 25kgs
Dimensions 250 x 430 x 350mm hwd
Sugden ANV-50: Specifications
Line Input Sensitivity 110mV @ zero attenuation for full output
Power Output 50 Watts into 8 Ohms both channels working
100 Watts into 4 Ohms both channels working
Frequency Response + -1dB 12Hz-45kHz
Bandwidth 8Hz-86kHz
Signal to Noise less than 85dB
Gross Weight (packed) 11kgs
Dimensions 143 x 430 x 370mm hwd
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

[@stevenheaton5960]

I live 3 miles away from the Sugden factory I took my a28 down for a service and check up,I was treated extremely well,factory tour and spent 2 hrs in the listening room,absolutely amazing gear,they did have a very modest pair of Acoustic energy Ae109 the 90s stalwart,the Manager said they were amazing value for money and worked superbly with their amps.Really nice genuine people. Thank you for your films,most interesting and informative.

[@PearlAcoustics]

I have never visited. Would love to one day.

[@jimfarrell4635]

I have literally just discovered the grilles from my AE109s squashed between bookcases. My son still uses my old 109s which are still doing a solid job. I think they were the introduction to floorstanders for a lot of people of my vintage.

[@Drackleyrva]

What other speaker brands pair well with Sugden?

[@cyrusbudatfletchergateart3569]

ProAc Tablettes 10 signature

[@user-xt3ot1xu1b]

I am a huge Sugden Fan. I love that they are still hand made on a bench by people who have been there for 30 years. You get a lovely tag with the person's name who built your amp. I have The IA-4 in the basement on my second system. My main system consists of the Sugden MPA-4 mono blocks. I have they LA-4 pre amp as well. With 165 W of Pure ClassA at my finger tips, i now have reached my audio Nirvana.

[@PearlAcoustics]

That’s fine to hear

[@trevoroutim8519]

Great video. I love my Sugden A21 from 1969. I was so amazed at the quality of sound through my Tannoy Berkley speakers. They match so well.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for sharing!

[@richcarless7740]

3 days ago I asked my local HiFi dealer if I could borrow a Sugden A21SE over the weekend, as I wanted to see how it paired with my ProAc D20Rs. He didn't give me the demo version from the shop, instead he gave me a brand new one boxed up. I said, are you sure? If I don't like it I'll be returning the box opened. He didn't seem worried. Needless to say after listening to the AMP for about 4 hour there was no way I was going to return it, it's simply sublime. I can only describe it as organic, things sound as they should, and the vocals .. my days.

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀 great story! Thanks for sharing

[@terencefield3204]

Very sad to hear that Mr MIllar pas so recently passed. A fine lifetimes work. Wonderful products. A great contribution to life and achievement. R.I.P.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed

[@paulharvey2630]

Have visited the Sugden facility in West Yorkshire - a real throw back…RIP Patrick Miller MD who I met on my visit who sadly passed away in September.

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

14:09 | 14:44 | 15:20 | 15:56 | 16:32 It's just amazing how you can actually discern differences among the amps through KZbin. That's why I find these comparison videos useful; while you don't hear ultimate sound quality, you DO hear relative sound quality.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you! So glad you find them useful.

[@Pressure_23]

The above comment is correct. It is surprisingly useful. One can hear the difference in bass weight between the different amps. Unexpected. An a21se with a custom orange front panel (a cost option) would be a lovely device to have in the house. Keen to hear these with perhaps some Harbeths.

[@RedRiverMud]

Totally agree. Listening through my iPhone and cheap earbuds, I heard the greater difference between the A21 Stealth and the SE.

[@andywrollo2915]

Especially when you listen on yer phone😂😂😂😂

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

@@andywrollo2915 lol, well that's not what I'm doing, but I get ya. I'm actually listening through Philips SHP9500s, Sennheiser HD598se, and Grado SR325X headphones, all driven by a NuForce uDAC3. Through each set of cans, I can hear distinct sonic differences (not ultimate fidelity, obviously).

[@JonathanMHMiller]

Thank you Harley Lovegrove for this insightful and polite video. I am the son of Patrick Miller and we as a family are very appreciative of the respect you gave towards the loss of my Father. It means a lot during these difficult times.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Dear Jonathan, how lovely to hear from you. Bearing in mind, all that your father had done for the brand during some difficult years, I felt we owed it to him. My deepest sympathies go out to you, your family and staff. If you are ever in Belgium, we would love to welcome you to our listening room here. Best wishes Harley

[@johnseddon2955]

Thank you for this interesting video. I have a Sugden A21 SE partnered with a pair of Proac Response D2s in a medium to small sized family room with less than ideal positioning. They are a liquid smooth, dynamic and detailed combination. You can really sink back into the music. They also sound complete at low listening volumes which is important for me in a busy household and to preserve my hearing. I know it’s subjective but I like the industrial design of the amp as well. I can’t see myself changing this partnership. Thank you again

[@mdlatham]

So glad I found your channel. I’ve watched several of your videos that I didn’t think I would be interested in but found very informative and sparking curiosity to learn more. Thank you!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Welcome aboard! So glad you enjoy them

[@simongrove3276]

Nice video as always, I love your passion and honesty, please keep producing more video's, it a highlight of a day when one is released - Cheers

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks!

[@lemanouchecbien1]

Just love your channel!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks

[@lawchoongseng789]

Thank u. I enjoyed the short music playback comparison. It tells a thousand words.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Leo-Crespi]

I enjoy your approach, you are able to find a fine balanced between technicalities and tangible pieces of information; good communication skills. I think the big one looks amazing though, great design. Thanks for the video and making my Sunday night more interesting, good stuff as usual.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks. You’re very welcome

[@davidstein9129]

Thanks for informing me about Sugden amplifiers. I had no knowledge of them prior to your video.

[@PearlAcoustics]

You’re very welcome!

[@zindahoon]

Wow , just wow the way you’re explaining things with so much simplicity

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it

[@DonHamlin]

Great coverage of an underrated company. Love your videos.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks! 🙏

[@markhusbands6132]

Love this channel, you always bring interesting subject matter.. this one for me is spot on.. the IA-4 has me sooo intrigued.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks!

[@RR-ut9wv]

I'm blown away by the review of Sugden SPA 4. It's on my top of list. Thanks.

[@PearlAcoustics]

You’re very welcome

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

THANKS HARLEY 🤗 WE APPRECIATE YOUR 💯 HONEST LOVE OF MUSIC 🎼😎👍💚💚💚

[@PearlAcoustics]

I appreciate that

[@jurgenkreuer9495]

I owned a sugden amp at the end of the eighties in Germany. At this time the amp wasn‘t as expensive as today but it sounded great. Thank you for your video

[@PearlAcoustics]

You’re welcome

[@contemporaryartist6542]

Thank you! Same reason I run First Watts. My J2 is sublime.

[@michellepark778]

Great overview of the Sugden amps thanks Harley as they are a little company producing some nice & simple products. You do not see many reviews for this brand. Thanks to hearing the A21 amp a couple of years ago I now own a pair of Masterclass MPA-4 mono power amplifiers with Monitor Audio PL300 II speakers. A great combination with class A. Keep up the great work!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks!

[@stevescudder1507]

I owned an Austin America while in college. It was a maintenance nightmare but I loved driving it.

[@macieklysek625]

Hello, I truly love your reviews and the way you talk about audio equipment:) This one is very special to me as a fan and user of many Sugden and other British audio for many years.I fell in love with Sugden about 15 years ago when I heard old A21 black one with gold letters, probably from the 80'/90', paired with big floorstanders and Thorens TD-160 at a dealer who was mostly selling Rega decks and NAD audio. I went there to buy my first Rega turntable after reading a review in one of British hi-fi magazines:) I was very excited about buing Rega that time but what got stuck in my mind was that sound of that old Sugden, so accurate i would say, so clear and so warm and charming at the same time. Over the years, together with my father who passed on his passion to vinyl records, turntables and audio to me, we had many amps from well established brands but we can loudly confirm something special and magical about the Sugden. He uses his A21SE signature with dedicated A21 stage two phono with Michell Gyro and me now IA-4 with Rega RP6 and Linn Sondek. So i miss a review of IA-4 here a little bit and your thoughts how does it compare to others. If I got you right, you don't care much about built in phono section? Do you always prefer external phono pre-amps? Do you have any favourites to pair with Sugden? I'm using mm carts only at the moment and wonder if it is worth buing an external phono for my IA-4 like masterclass PA-4 . What i noticed, the build in mm section is much more quiet than cd input or when i use my external Rega Fono mm, making an impression the built in mm section is worse. But when I put the volume up, soundwise i cannot decide definately which one is better:) Best regards

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, thanks for your comment and kind appreciation. I only prefer using external phono preamplifiers when using moving coil cartridges, and if I am likely to go to moving coil then I do not want to buy an internal mm phono stage. The good news is that there are some truly excellent moving magnet cartridges on the market today.

[@macieklysek625]

@@PearlAcoustics Hello, thanks for reply. What bothers me most about internal built in phono stages is they usually sound much more quiet than external phono pre-amps or other line inputs. That's strange why it is usually that way that the gain for phono input is lower than for other inputs. Anyway I'm looking forward for your review of the new iconic MF A1 and how it compares to Sugden:) Greetings!

[@tonydeniro284]

Great channel and subject matter! I bought my a21se maybe 4 years ago. Its the best amp i have ever owned or heard. It pairs nicely with my tannoys. If i had the cash on hand, i would buy a pair of your speakers.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your very kind words of appreciation. The A21SE is a little wonder. Couldn’t agree more! Best wishes from Belgium.

[@Mrhifitunes]

Another great video 👍. Loved watching it. And love my sugden A21 SE. I like the chassis too. I saw in your description part you mention signal to noise for those different amps as "less then..." While in fact it is "MORE then...". I think the anniversary works with rail voltage that follows the signal so it doesn't have a much overhead as a classic class A and therefore runs less hot.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks very much for your compliments. And thanks for pointing out the error, I will fix it today!

[@loftcase]

Thank You for sharing.

[@PearlAcoustics]

My pleasure!

[@stephencallil6512]

Got a old A48.Brought it off a hi-fi shop wanting to rid of the trade-ins. Totally amazed at how good the sound is . The amp next amp I am buying is a Sudgen. Also I really like your channel as you are honest

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks

[@bunsw2070]

Fantastic channel. Excellent format. In the listening comparisons I was surprised how easy it is to hear the differences. To me, the vibrato in the singer's voice showed off the differences the most in my few minutes of listening. The SPA-4 was far ahead of all the others in the sustain and decay and nuance of this vibrato. I use an Audio Note UK Meishu 300B single ended integrated amp with new production Western Electric 300Bs to drive Hifiman Susvara headphones. I had to put 8 ohms of resistors on the output to tame a brightness. My dealer said that was unusual. Must have been a ringing in the output transformers. I tried 2 different brands of reasonably high-falutin' resistors and sure enough you could hear the differences between the 2. I'm getting off the rails here but my point was that when I first got this amp the thing that I noticed the most was the decay. It went on for ages compared to what I'd been used to. Decay and time coherence are just 2 things that cannot be measured. Maybe you could invent a crude way of doing it but that still wouldn't be a precision way, it would just be to convince skeptics that it existed at all and what's the point of that. Doubters will doubt. BTW, these WE 300Bs give off this mesmerizing bluish glow that makes me want to keep the top off the amp and stare at them. I'm hypercritical of everything and don't have much good to say about anything but I must say this is quite spectacular. It seems to originate from the inside layer of the glass envelope. It's 3d and gently moves all the time. Like Sugden, Audio Note doesn't waste money on excessively fancy chassis, and a lot of people won't by them because of this. Good for the rest of us. They can't keep up with demand as it is.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks very much for your kind appreciation, and also for your interesting comment

[@mediascapes2011]

The high heat output is to warm the heart, it seems to work fantastically well.

[@PearlAcoustics]

I think so too!

[@daveappleton7871]

I heard my first Sugden in 1974 when my Outward Bound instructor invited his group to his apartment. I only remember that he had a Revox and a Sugden I was absolutely amazed at the sound and ever since then Sudgen has been my Holy Grail. I had an A48 and a C28/P28 Pre/Power combo in the 90s which I enjoyed tremendously but my current ANV-50 is spectacular! Thanks for the Video and the minute's silence at the end for Patrick Miller may he rest in peace 💝.

[@PearlAcoustics]

You’re very welcome

[@apollomemories7399]

A few friends and I used to meet our Geography teacher in the pub on Friday nights and he'd come back to one of our houses after to listen to records and a few more beers. I've a feeling that might be a tough call these days.

[@alfovebraseth]

Thanks for a lovely video, I really enjoy my Sugden amp.(IA-4). I find them very reasonably priced, given local English production of the highest audiophile standard. One reason why the ANV has a different sonic character might stem from it´s switching power supply, and the use of low-pass filters to get rid of sampling noise (you can see a much reduced bandwith).

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for sharing!

[@jamesmartin3339]

Before this video, I thought my IA4 had a different sound character compared to my McIntosh and Passlabs integrated amps. This review confirmed my thoughts and now appreciate even more how my Sugden sounds.

[@tubelilous]

Thank you very much for the insight

[@PearlAcoustics]

My pleasure!

[@johnwoodham6906]

Hi harley Due to this video i went and bought a sugden a21. Fantastic amp no regrets such a lively amp 23 watts seems loud to me. Coming from a musical fidelity amp don’t notice much more detail…but much more lively makes the MF sound flat almost lifeless. What i am getting is more space and a cleanest is the sound . Dynamics is fantastic so much power on tap. Thank you harley for the video keep them coming much appreciated.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your feedback John. Great to hear you are so pleased with your Sugden. Enjoy.

[@stephenbrickwood5148]

Lovely video, thank you. Current dumping Quad 405 then check out a ZinAmp modern take on the idea, might become a new favourite, is for me, affordable and brilliantly sounding!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Ok great tip, thanks! Glad you enjoyed it

[@harrisedgar]

I feel the same about Sugden, so in my opinion you are doing a public service by giving them a spot on your channel. As usual wonderful video..!!! A question though: Between SPA-4 and the LA-4 which one has the sudden signature of the most? (how would I inject more "Sugdenness" if I could only start with one of them?) it is important that you know that you're about the only person in the Internet that can answer this, because I haven't found anyone that has this combo available, let alone entire sugden collection...! You truly nailed it with this video, in fact I think it's very short I would love to see a second part or a detailed video of each member of your collection. Thank you.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your kind words. The LA4 is rather transparent, so I would say the SP4. Hope that helps

[@gr328]

I have the Masterclass AA pre / power from 20 years ago - still going strong. It's not quite as powerful as the new version but there's magic in the pre design 🙂

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment

[@calvertbarba]

Thanks for another great video/review! Very enjoyable to watch. I’m curious about the switching power supply; seems like more and more companies are starting to use them instead of transformers. Has there been a breakthrough in the technology? Did Sugden developed their in-house?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi thanks for your your kind appreciation. I am not sure about a breakthrough but it does seem that these kinds of amplifiers are sounding more dynamic and musical. For specifics, I need to refer you too Sugden for more details. Best wishes, H

[@darrensworkshop6783]

I noticed you missed out the Austin 'Morris" ...not their finest moment and I should know as I had one.. Thanks again for the content.

[@laurencechen1486]

Have heard the A21SE and loved it. Bought a Pass XA25 and love it, too (with a tube pre). But, Sugden is special. Will add an A21SE for another room...someday!

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀👍 it’s always nice to have options!

[@Entitaet69]

I have an SS integrated and plan to upgrade but I still don't know whether I should go for a better SS integrated or for a tube pre amp. Which tube pre do you use going into the XA25 ?? And do you also have an SS pre? I would appreciate your suggestions, thanks in advance!

[@richardherbert3519]

Great video again

[@PearlAcoustics]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@donkeyshot1]

@4:35 The sound signature of all the impressive Class A Sugdens may be similar but I wonder if that extends to Sugden's rarely spoken about, barely reviewed and only Class AB amp, the humble Mystro. Have you heard of it, Harley? I've got it in my rack, and I love it. Great video, as always, thank you!

[@PearlAcoustics]

I am ashamed to say I have never heard of it. Enjoy!

[@tremot7143]

I need to express some gratitude here, because it was your comparison video which got me interested in the brand. I acquired a vintage Sugden A48 Mk3, and set it up with recapped late 70s KEF Concerto speakers. The amplifier is an A/B design, the first 10 watt in pure Class A. It's an excellent pairing and sounds glorious.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Glad I could help!

[@PanAmStyle]

Many years ago I became interested in Sugden due to Ultra High Fidelity (UHF) magazine from Montreal giving their components really good reviews. At the time I had very little money, so they disappeared from my radar. I’ve recently settled on a combination of Lab12 Pre 1 feeding the DECware SE84UFO and unless I spring for a good second system, I don’t think I’m changing. That said, it’s a bit sad that I have yet to even hear a Sugden amplifier. Perhaps at the Toronto high end show this month I will be able to do so.

[@jos5067]

Visibility and recognition will be earned when they send out more review models, in my opinion. I wish to buy one but can’t find enough reviews to be sure. The A50 model has to compete with Yamaha and Accuphase, for example, and they are reviewed very well.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed, review models do not exist. I am waiting to hear the 800

[@joemartin6439]

I enjoy listening about Sugden amp . But I love my Audio Space AS-i3 integrated tube KT-77Power tubes and Casta C horn Speakers.

[@PearlAcoustics]

That’s absolutely right. The idea behind these videos is not to sell equipment but to bring them to the foreground of our hobby. In this way we can marvel at other designs and appreciate the ones we own.

[@Ricky-cl5bu]

That’s and amp I haven’t got my hands on yet , but I will get a A21

[@christopherwright8179]

Beautifully put together piece on Sugden. Would love to see a comparison between the A21 and the newly revised Musical Fidelity A1. I used to have the MF A120 which was one of my best sounding amplifiers, but it was very hot and fragile!

[@jimfarrell4635]

Excellent idea, Christopher. That would be a fascinating comparison given the price differential.

[@christopherwright8179]

Yes, I know that the Signature is over £1k more expensive than the MF, but I still think that it would be an interesting comparison.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Good news. I have one on order and hope to review it in the coming weeks

[@christopherwright8179]

@@PearlAcoustics Can’t wait to hear what you have to say.

[@frankk.2865]

I should recommend Lavardin Amps. 😉

[@mjjm6220]

As a Sibelius owner, I intend to buy Burson mono-blocks with Class A to the first 30W.

[@PearlAcoustics]

That should sound great.

[@kesm66]

I recently bought a A21SE…stunned…it’s driving a pair of Spendor 4/5 Classics & Salk Song 3 Encores. The Sugden provides holographic texture & organic warmth that my Hegel H390 doesn’t provide.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment and contribution to the topic

[@Charles12509]

Hello, I love every minute of your videos, thank you for making them…I have tube amps for my Klipsch Heritage speakers. I am getting tired of messing with tubes, would the Sugden be a good fit? They are 99 efficient….

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your very kind appreciation. If you want to move away from tubes, then absolutely Sugden are a very good alternative. Good luck on your listening journey

[@attilaz8775]

Very great video, thanks. What about Masterclass IA-4? It would be interesting to see a comparsion with other Sugden amps and also with Sibelius speakers. I have Harbeth SHL5plus XD with IA-4. Hope one day I can try or own a pair of Pearl Sibelius somehow.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, thanks for your kind appreciation. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get my hands on the IA-4 but I guess it still has the the signature Sugden performance. I can’t imagine them releasing something that doesn’t? If you want to reach out to us via our website, we can sometimes arrange auditions, either at one of our listening rooms, or with a real life customer. Best wishes from Belgium

[@claytonkeltto3239]

Thanks for talking Sugden...I was almost ready to ask for more thoughts in a comment to your other videos. The A21SE is on my shortlist. One other class A amplifier that I'm curious about is the Valvet...any experience with their products?

[@PearlAcoustics]

You’re very welcome. Sorry, no experience on Valvet.

[@SignorZukini]

Hats off to Sugden. It's good when a company manages to get it right first time and resist the constant pressure to update their products. The original Sugden circuit was a simple, primarily single ended design which sounded good then and does now. Sometimes people just need to be reminded they exist! If you manage to get your hands on the rereleased Musical Fidelity A1 it would be awesome to see a comparison. Very very different design and internals (symmetrical with LTP inputs) but also known for its unique engaging sound.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment. I am trying to get an A1

[@SignorZukini]

@@PearlAcoustics excellent news!

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

MOST WELCOME 🤗

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks

[@user-yn4sm5ef8g]

Thank you for the insightful video on Sudgen products. I bought a pair of Sibelius speaker from you earlier this year and has paired with Sudgen A21SE following our email exchange which also touched upon ANV-50 and A21. I enjoyed the combination very much, very musical and easy to listen to with ease. Now your video makes me thinking about SPA-4. Can you tell me how you drive the Sudgen SPA-4 directly? And can you also drive it using A21SE as pre-amp? Many thanks, Tom

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi Tom. Glad to hear you are happy. I have a Project CD player, with matching preamplifier with balanced out, and I drive it straight into the SPA. But the Sugden pre-amp is really good (especially their D800). But the combo is very expensive and only slightly better. Not everyone even agrees it is! Feel free to write to me again…

[@MaxZappa1]

Instruments on the A21SE have more body, presence and air than on the A21. In essence more real. Super amplifier.

[@burakharley272]

Hello from the Republic of Türkiye. I follow you with pleasure. As the owner of Sugden A21A, thank you for the information you provided.

[@PearlAcoustics]

My pleasure

[@1mctous]

I'm getting the most texture and tone from the SPA-4 direct (no preamp). The ANV-50 is noticeably brighter than any of the pure class A amps.

[@razisn]

Thanks for this video. You should try the new (old) Musical Fidelity A1 2x25W push-pull Class A solid state amp of original Tim de Paravicini design. At 1500 pounds it is the bargain of the century and i'm sure it will be able to drive the Sibelius speakers well.

[@musiclassica]

Was about to mention the same. Three thousand Eur for an amp with a rattling case is sth i will never understand. The Musical Fidelity does not seem to suffer from this. On top, it has an MM and MC phono pre-amp integrated. Harvey is right that a separate is better but it’s an unbelievable nice extra, not to mention a tape-loop and pre-out. And all that for a mere 1.600 Eur.

[@razisn]

@@musiclassica Actually 1600 Euros.

[@PearlAcoustics]

It’s definitely on my list to try out. It’s not that easy to get hold of at the moment.

[@musiclassica]

@@razisn Thanks, I’ve adjusted it.

[@jedi-mic]

A shoot out between the two new music fidelity A1 and the naim nait 50, be interesting combination a match between the two?? @@PearlAcoustics

[@Drackleyrva]

Great video! I'm so proud that I have an A21 signature. I'm still searching to find better speakers (Tekton Lores) to pair with the A21. Question: do you recommend keeping the stock power cord or did you upgrade? Thank you---love your videos!

[@PearlAcoustics]

I only use stock power cords. Except for my studio recording equipment.

[@r423sdex]

I’m proud I have a great family.

[@aguru5217]

Wonderfully helpful review. Thank you. Sugden is now top of my list. Both the ANV-50 and A21SE are options for me with my current ProAc speakers. Do you have a preference of either in your system (i.e. if you had to choose one)? I will not get the chance to demo either in my system before purchase , so any thoughts greatly appreciated.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Oh, if I could only have one, it would be the A21SE. It epitimizes what it is to be a Sugden amplifier!

[@aguru5217]

@@PearlAcoustics thank you very much. I appreciate your reply, and the interesting and fun videos you create.

[@modulardesignsystems]

Thanks for a wonderful AB demo recording. AB reviews depend on the brains processing. The brain however is a different kind of computer that doesn't have hard fixed output results as the results are dynamic. While the differences between the amplifiers is as clear as day and night, trying to reproduce the results will vary from time to time and listener to listener, there are those who will hear no difference whatsoever. There are those who will hear different things at different times. Because the working of any brain is dynamic people become more comfortable with a fixed measurement that we can agree on. This is equivalent to accepting a low resolution measurement with few dimensions as opposed to a complex result with many dimensions.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks too for your contribution to the discussion

[@r423sdex]

Harley, get yourself the Audiolab 6000a, or the play version , you will be very surprised. Its insanely good for the money. I managed to get a ex display 6000a play for £599. Im beyond shocked by its performance.

[@mrmeaner3917]

While the Audiolab 6000a is a great amp for its price point, it truly cannot compete or compare against a Class A Sugden. I had the 6000a before my Sugden A21SE and it’s a million miles away from the Sugden. For many the Sugden amps tend to be forever amplifiers.

[@mslaw7261]

Great explanation!! would you happen to know if there is a period of time for break-in?

[@PearlAcoustics]

I really don’t think there is. Usually, manufacturers put their amplifiers on a test bench prior to dispatching them to their clients. That should be enough. It is believed that some amplifiers sound better when they get up to full running temperature, I can see that is possible. But more then that, I really don’t think so.,

[@PoulPetersen]

I own the Sugden Masterclass cd player, best I ever heard

[@PearlAcoustics]

Now that’s a machine I have never seen or heard. I know that Sugden can build excellent DACs

[@PoulPetersen]

It's called masterclass PDT-4F

[@mr.wibble]

Fantastic video, thank you. May I enquire as to which streaming device you use / recommend and also what DAC. Many thanks in advance.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your kind appreciation. On this video I used a ProJect RS pre with Dac included.. it’s very clean, duly dual mono. Later, I got hold of a Sugden DAP 800 Dac / Pre. It’s expensive but very clean and very useful for me because I can hook up se ark pieces of kit at the same time. For streaming I just use a Bluesound Node. Hoping this helps?

[@mr.wibble]

That's very useful thank you. I also use a Bluesound Node X as my streaming device. Regarding the DAC, I asked as I have never had a Class A amp before and am considering a Sugden as my next upgrade. Given the smooth, warm nature of Class A, I am trying to match a fitting DAC. For example, I am told a Chord Qutest is very analytical and therefore may make a good balance to the Amp, or would a warm sounding DAC, such as a Denafrips Aries 12th + their DDC (Iris) work well? Thank you. @@PearlAcoustics

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@mr.wibble I think it’s important to remember that the difference between Dacs is way less than amplifiers, it’s subtle at best. One should also take into account functionality. Companies like Eversolo and SMSL are showing what is possible for a very low price.

[@mr.wibble]

@@PearlAcoustics thank you for your advice / comments.

[@torarnekvaly7753]

I love the design of the Sugden amps. I have never thought it as cheap. I even love the "toilet" button of my FPA-4! :)

[@PearlAcoustics]

😂

[@dab9742]

I was hesitating between Sugden Masterclass IA-4 and Luxman L-590AXII for a class A amp. When I saw that the filter capacitors were Samwha, I immediately preferred to buy the Luxman ! What's more, it's much more beautiful, and more complete on every level. 😎

[@PearlAcoustics]

That’s interesting. Thanks for sharing. What will the Luxman be replacing?

[@dougg1075]

I like em

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀

[@gabrielbacca381]

Great video Harley - I just purchased an Exposure 2510... loving the sound. Exposure is another audio company gem from England. Sugden was above my budget I am afraid. So many great audio companies in England, any reason behind that? I am sure the fact that most of the current music in the last 50 years comes from the Island, has got to do with it 🙂 Thanks for the video...

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your kind appreciation. One of the reasons(I believe) there are so many HiFi companies in the UK (I believe) is because after the 2nd world war, Britain had a great reputation for quality. Both performance and HiFi manufacturing. It was synonymous with quality. Because of this manufacturing clusters formed (Huntingdon) - Kent Sussex etc. Everyone was near by, supply chains could be accommodated. Spin-offs from universities also helped with R&D. But the biggest driver snd commercial purchaser was probably the BBC. To get the BBC to buy Obe’s products was the golden goose. In the US, there was no single ‘BBC’ and thus not such a clear goal. But GEC was a massive influence / competitor to companies like Mullard. Hoping this helps?

[@gabrielbacca381]

@@PearlAcoustics This is all fascinating... And I bet there was a particular reason as to why England developed that reputation for HiFi quality during and after the WWII. During times of war, so many developments take place, optics, sonar systems etc. Yes, the BBC sure was the major player. And it served as stepping stone, eventually, for the development of new music as good quality studios was easily accessible, I imagine. Anyways, thanks for your kind response !

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@gabrielbacca381 you’re very welcome

[@TheCharlesAtoz]

I think you should monetize it....use the money to buy gear and put in your hifi room. Good video Harley!!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks! 😂

[@yuriwalter385]

Monetize and donate. If you are not monetizing your channel, someone is (KZbin stakeholders). If you monetize, you can choose what to do with the money. More gear, more records, free concert tickets for young, you name it!

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@yuriwalter385 thanks for the suggestion.

[@apollomemories7399]

Simply marvelous Harley. I'll be popping round one night to relieve you of your model. What nights are you out?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Most 😀 glad you enjoyed it!

[@bopper2984]

I believe post pandemic there’s a 6 month waiting list for new Sugden amps. I have A21SE driving a pair of Sterling Broadcast SB-88s (87 db) and the power is ridiculous. In fact volume knob barely moves. Also, if prepared to wait, you can have a custom colour faceplate. 😊

[@PearlAcoustics]

Indeed waiting times can be long.

[@user-bj7ey4fr5o]

Hello Harley, this was very interesting. One model that you did not cover is the IA-4 amplifier. I recently purchased one and currently use it with Spendor D7 speakers. But since I had them, I have always wondered how they would work with the Sibelius speakers. Do you think you could listen to a IA-4 and perhaps compare it with the A21-SE and/or the ANV-50? I think this would be an interesting comparison. Manfred

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, I am told that the A21SE and the IA-4 are very similar in their characteristics. I have been asking for an IA-4 for months and months but my distributor does not get any. I think they mostly go to the US. I see absolutely no reason why the it would not be a good match for the Sibelius. It’s made by Sugden, and it’s pure class A. Sorry I can not help any more at this time.

[@user-bj7ey4fr5o]

Dear Harley, yes, I know that the IA-4 is hard to get. I had to wait for mine almost 6 months until the Sugden distributor in the U.S. could get it for me. I hope you get one at some point in time and test it yourself. I just trust your judgment a great deal and I am currently considering a new pair of speakers that would deliver me the musicality that I am interested in with the IA-4.@@PearlAcoustics

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@user-bj7ey4fr5o 😀

[@AdiMaco]

Disclosure! I worked as a salesman, marketing, and technical advisor at an audio equipment dealer and I also had Sugden in my portfolio. I listened to Sugden for about 3 years almost every day. Their entire range of amplifiers is very good. It is known that Sugden is a small company that produces in England. The A21SE is probably one of the best integrated in the world, regardless of price. The LA-4 is very good and so is the monster SPA-4. With the ANV-50 they made a mistake, in my opinion, the current source of the amplifier is a PWM. Even if it's a PWM done well, at a high frequency, I think it doesn't compare to a linear source. Even so, ANV-50 sounds good too.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Interesting… I can only agree. The ANV 50 is good but it does not have that something special that the others have. I personally put it down to its use of current dumping, rather than the classic pure Class A the others follow, but maybe I am over simplifying?

[@Kobryner1]

Dear Harley, some time back I did ask You whether Pearl Acoustics would be a good match with my Sugden A21 Signature. You replied that very soon You are planning to test it. I am happy to hear that I drew Your attention to Sugden, the handicraft, solid craftsman of an excellent Hi-Fi equipment. It is pity that I have no chance to test your Sibelius SG speakers anywhere in Poland as most probably I would purchase them. Greetings..

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi. Indeed I remember. If you contact us via our website. We can always look out for the nearest listening possibility. Best wishes

[@ohwhyevenbother]

Now aged 65 years and an old Australian, I love these videos of what I grew up with as my Diamond standards. So many wonderful memories! Subscribed with a passion! Thank you sir. @@PearlAcoustics

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@ohwhyevenbother thanks!

[@ohwhyevenbother]

Thank you sir.@@PearlAcoustics

[@fabien7079]

Hi Harley, did you tey one.of the Audiomat integrated amp with yous speaker? Small French company own by two brothers that don't follow others in the designs... I love them highly musical...

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, only once, but sadly the smokies was not working correctly so I couldn’t really give it a try. It looked very nice though

[@remiwjuniski1808]

Speaking of English amp, did you try or intend to review the new elex mk4 from rega? Sound is really good for 1500€ :)

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, I have not heard it yet. Thanks for the tip

[@remiwjuniski1808]

By the way , I never heard you speak about Naim : what do you think about their amplifier (5si,xs3,supernait3, Nait 50th anniversary) in comparison to rega for example ? Also question about dac : did you tried chord dac ? lile the mojo 2 or qutest ? Or the swiss merason ? thanks you :)

[@sportscarnut]

You ought to listen to Schiit Audio Kara preamp and Tyr monoblocs.

[@jedi-mic]

That's a shame Croft acoustics died about 8 months ago similar ethics in their design, I like Croft acoustics I've never had a chance to get one, I wonder how the two sounds side by side? Slightly different concept of using valves in conjunction with MOSFET outputting 55 Watts, but a great design, have you ever chance to listen to One? I'm not sure if the Sugden is worth the price!? It's not cheap the A21SE, for the same price you can get the fezz audio Kt150 what I would say is a better amplifier by a country mail but I could be wrong but I don't think so! You should try one out I'm sure they'll send you one, would like your opinion!

[@sean_heisler]

Nice video! Wow, the SPA-4 seemed to take it there, via the preamp, I think! Sounded wonderfully complete and full with great instrument separation. While I have never heard one I am quite fond of Sugden amplifiers. Myself, I am currently running a 35-40 watt Nelson Pass Class A amplifier with a tube preamp and it's wonderful. I don't know how I can ever go back to anything but a class A amplifier now.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks a lot! For your kind words and comment

[@frankgeeraerts6243]

Maybe we enjoy because you enjoy making the videos with passion for music ...... To me about the demos........for what it is worth listening trought the naughty filter of youtube the choice of my soul goes to the ........... SE and the 4 direct !....... Thank you

[@PearlAcoustics]

😀

[@carminedesanto6746]

Greeting from Toronto..my goodness..there’s a name I haven’t heard in a while….

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks

[@pervertt]

All 5 versions of the song sounded exactly the same to me. If there are differences they weren't evident to me. And I'm listening via a pair of DT770s.

[@HailKingCeezer]

That's quite a toe-in you've got there. Crossing each driver to the outside of opposite ears? For center imaging?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, thanks for your comment. for the video itself, I position the loudspeakers to create a nicer image… indeed, they would not work well like that in real life

[@jmal5390]

I have an A21 and although I have amps nearly 5x the price, I always come back to the A21. I really don't know what more I could want in an amp. My other amps do some of the audiophile tricks better, but I find myself paying attention to my equipment instead of listening to music. The A21 doesn't have as much detail, or as much air as the others, but it has a beautiful tonality that just makes great music. As silly as it might sound, I love waking up, making a cup of tea, and listening to my Lyrita records on the Sugden. It is as close as I can get to being transported to an imaginary past across the Atlantic. It's one of the few remaining fantasy spaces left for me, as age and experience slowly pull back the curtain on the realities of life.

[@PearlAcoustics]

A beautiful post. Thank you for sharing. I know exactly what you mean!

[@neilritson7445]

Surely Hi Fi sound depends on the other components? I had AR4x speakers which had a wonderful treble sound for piano, but...only an average deck!

[@sebastianbachert9528]

Thank you for this one, Harley. One day, I'll have a Sugden! One question apart: do you leave your amplifiers always switched on? Some say that would be better for the circuits of the electronics and saves heat up time, till full sonic quality is obtained. My 25 year old amp needs about 30-35 minutes to warm up. But leaving it always switched on heats the room and it costs a lot of energy. What's your opinion?? Best regards from Germany!

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi thanks for your kind appreciation. I always switch my amplifiers off. There is also a risk of them braking down or overheating / catching fire. It’s very small but I would never risk it. And, as you say, it wastes energy. By the time the amplifier is warmed up, so am I. 😂 Another trick is to put the amplifier on a remote socket. So you can switch it on via your phone or tablet.

[@sebastianbachert9528]

@@PearlAcoustics Thank you for your kind answer!

[@jimfarrell4635]

​@PearlAcoustics Now that is an excellent idea, especially for tube amps. It would be yet another reason for my wife to conclude I am certifiably insane, but I'm going to do it anyway.

[@PearlAcoustics]

@@jimfarrell4635 😂. You’re doing it for the environment and the safety of the family 😉

[@patricaomas8750]

You seem to have from your intro, to have experience with what music and instruments should sound like I can only go by what l like and that might not be true to life. Don't know if that makes sense. Sugden is from Northern UK so having a dual use of heating.I think they look great I was watching a KZbin vid about one amp company whose £$6000.00 amp 33% of the cost was the case.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment. True, the north of England is rather cold! 😀

[@matldn2697]

I have been a Sugden fan for over 30 years. They sound liquid, detailed and natural. Most of their products are sold to Asia. But they are not that well reviewed in the UK.

[@afonsomiguelcorreia]

Does the sugden A21SE performs as weel with 4ohm speakers?

[@PearlAcoustics]

That’s a good question. I really don’t know. I can imagine it should. But there’s 4ohm minimum and 4ohm speskers that drop well down below 4. It might be worth checking with Sugden, or reaching out to one of their forums?

[@davybloggs1564]

Interesting review of Sugden, although, IMO, you are wrong to say a ('fancy') chassis has no influence on the sound. From your point of view, you could apply that logic to say a stand/shelf/support has no influence on the sound, which is also not the case.

[@PearlAcoustics]

Thanks for your comment and kind appreciation. Indeed, you are absolutely correct. The functionality of the chasis is important. What I should have done is qualified my meaning of ‘fancy’. what I meant was a chasis with artistic embellishments designed to look nice, but not adding to sound quality.

[@iloveaviation-burgerclub-a8145]

That amplifier low right looks like it weighs a ton or more 😂 Hearing that click of the power button was just so surprising 😂 The EuroStar toilet button... pretty close Harley.

[@PearlAcoustics]

😂

[@iloveaviation-burgerclub-a8145]

@@PearlAcoustics "Man and I thought my amp was huge..." 🤣

[@davidstein9129]

Anybody compare the sound of Pass Labs preamplifiers to the Sugden's? Which models did you compare? Which ones did you prefer the most? Thanks! Regards, David

[@PearlAcoustics]

Big topic! Video coming soon. 😉

[@MasterofPlay7]

not sure if is the right place to ask, but what do you think of the kplisch rp8000f ii if you heard them? I heard their base extension is kind of weak

[@PearlAcoustics]

Oh very sorry, I have no personal experience on your topic.

[@nicktube3904]

What is your opinion about Audio Note UK equipment?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, I am not that familiar - it looks good to me. I’ve seen it at shows but never got up close with it in my listening room.

[@user-yd1ub9ph4f]

Здравствуйте. Подскажите, пожалуйста.,как по вашему мнению усилитель Sugden A21se,будет сочетается с акустикой proac d25?

[@PearlAcoustics]

Hi, I honestly can’t say. But I see no reason why the match shouldn’t be anything but good.