OCTAVE RE 320 Tube Power Amplifier

The Octave RE 320 stereo power amplifier marks a significant evolution of this model series. The heart of the amplifier, the actual amplifier stage, is completely revised. Because for the first time the technical details of the Jubilee SE models have been utilized.

Description

The Octave RE 320 stereo power amplifier marks a significant evolution of this model series. The heart of the amplifier, the actual amplifier stage, is completely revised. Because for the first time the technical details of the Jubilee SE models have been utilized.

This SE technology was previously implemented in the new Octave integrated amplifier flagship V 80 SE and is characterized by significantly increased stability and extreme linearity. As the experienced author Roland Kraft clearly stated in the test of the power amplifier in Stereoplay 03/2016: “We know of very few tube amplifiers that are so uncritical when it comes to loudspeakers and are therefore able to develop their sonic capabilities in practically any combination .” (You can read the full test here).

The concept is based on the modern KT 150 power pentodes. The extremely powerful KT 150 enable a maximum output power of approx. 2 x 130 W with two tubes in push-pull mode. The performance bandwidth of the RE 320 extends from 5 Hz to 85 kHz. The pulse power can even reach over 200 watts. This type of power development guarantees inimitable sovereignty, offers enormous reserves and represents the effortless dynamics that characterize Octave.

A variety of modern and innovative detailed solutions guarantee a consistent level over the years. For example, the interference signal level of more than -110 dB is so low that no hum or noise can be heard even with high-efficiency loudspeakers. Many practical features such as the fine adjustment of the BIAS, the power switch for different tube types, the modern ECO mode, the connection for the external black box and the switchable RCA and XLR inputs make the stereo power amplifier a universal playing partner in this type of device.

The RE 320 impresses with a sound that is stable and reliable on all loads. Above all, the effortlessness of music reproduction is impressive and thanks to enormous control, the sound image always remains tidy, believable in its dimensions and shows even the finest facets with an irresistible naturalness.

Features

Basic model RE 320
Design Silver or Black
Tube configuration 4 x KT 88-S4A-Carbon, optional 4 x KT 150 TS
Connections Inputs: 1 x RCA, 1 x XLR; Output: Speaker output suitable for banana plugs and cable lugs
Dimensions 488 x 210 x 410 mm (W x H x D)
Weight 27.6 kg
Eco mode Power saving mode
Power selection Adaptation to alternative power tubes
Bias control Quiescent current display and setting
Protection system Soft start; Protection circuit for amplifier and power tubes
Inputs RCA + XLR selectable

Specifications

Output power at 4 ohms High: 2 x 130 W (RMS) / Low: 2 x 75 W (RMS)
Frequency response 25 Hz – 85 kHz / -3 dB at full power
Input resistance 220 kOhm RCA; 20 kOhm XLR
Signal-to-noise ratio -110 dB (< 100 µV 150 Hz – 15 kHz)
Amplification +28 dB RCA
Input sensitivity 0.8 V RCA, 1.6 V XLR