According to Vincent Audio, the SV-228 is the legitimate successor of the SV-227 MK model, making a statement towards high quality stereo systems while allowing the convenience and simplicity of a remote-controlled integrated amplifier. The SV-228MK fully explores an hybrid design that combines the advantages of both transistor and tube amplifiers - one 6N4 and two ECC82 in this case - while keeping the focus on the quality of the circuits and offering enough power to drive and control two pairs of common loudspeakers.
In keeping with the best traditions of stereo components of yesteryear, key outstanding features include the ability to control the power of other connected audio components, a headphone output, a switch for two pairs of loudspeakers, a tone control that can be switched off, and a loudness on/off function (yes, that largely misunderstood circuit that was so popular in the sixties and seventies). And serving the convenience of an integrated amplifier, the SV-228 also comes with a minimalistic remote control with simple volume, source switching and mute keys.
Obviously, those still in the market for a new integrated amplifier will notice mainly the hybrid design, which the brand is able to master given its experience with solid state transistor products and the use of vacuum tube circuits on the input stages, allowing for products that offer the best combination of sound character and component reliability. The two amplifier sections – pre-amplifier and power amplifier – are perfectly matched for maximum transparency. However, the listener can bypass the pre-amp/amp connection by removing external jumpers.
The SV-228 also offers a Main input to make it easy to use it as a power amplifier in conjunction with an A/V preamp/processor. In addition, the SV-228 features a Bluetooth 5 input for wireless streaming, expanding even more the audio sources to support mobile devices and computers. The input selection includes three analog and two digital sources. In addition to making analog sources sound their best, the SV-228 is up to date with a Burr-Brown PCM 5102 DAC that handles high-resolution streaming formats, including WAV, FLAC, APE, LPCM, AAC, and more.
Aesthetically, the SV-228 stands out with VU meters embedded in the front panel, and colored lighting that is adjustable via a rear-panel control. As Vincent Audio explains, this two-channel meter is actually controlled digitally by a separate central processing unit, accurately displaying real-time power output. The output power is specified as 100W per channel at 8 ohms, or 180W p/channel at 4 ohms - powerful enough to drive two pairs of speakers.
Vincent Audio products are distributed in the US by Pangea Audio Distributing, LLC. The company explains that this new integrated amplifier will be a worthy successor for the popular SV-227MK in a series that is one of Vincent Audio’s most successful lines to date. Featuring noticeable upgrades both inside and out and reflecting the addition of in-demand new features, the SV-228 has a very reasonable MSRP of $2,499.95 and is available in traditional black or silver finishes.
"Beginning with the SV-226, the PowerLine models are among the most successful products introduced by the brand," says Steve Niemi, Director of Global Sales at Pangea Audio. "With the SV-228, the team at Vincent Audio proves it is ready, willing, and able to further improve on an audiophile favorite."
www.pangeaaudio.com
www.vincent-tac.de
