Octave HP 700 SE Tube Preamplifier

The HP 700 SE is Octave's reference tube preamplifier below the Jubilee line — the SE (Special Edition) evolution of the HP 700 that has anchored Octave's premium preamplifier position for years. Refined tube technology and intelligent modular architecture made the original HP 700 future-proof, and the SE version pushes further in both sound and technology. Two parallel XLR sockets now sit next to two RCA outputs on the rear, allowing all variants of bi-amping, and the Class-A output stage has been refined via extremely time-consuming and complex measurements alongside accompanying listening sessions — improvements especially audible in the midrange.

Octave's 'precision technology' in the line stage refers to a tube-based circuit with extreme bandwidth to 1 MHz, remarkably low output impedance of 100 ohms, and sensationally low distortion of 0.001%. Three amplification settings combined with selectable output impedance enable perfect fine-tuning of the HP 700 SE to the characteristics of the sound reproduction chain — optimal matching of the volume control range to speaker efficiency. The separate, magnetically-shielded outboard power supply (essential for the low-noise MC-input operation) combined with newly developed high-precision low-noise supply-voltage stabilizing circuitry ensures constancy of the audio output even under wide mains variations.

The modular input architecture is the HP 700 SE's defining feature: two user-selectable optional input modules allow anything from an MC step-up transformer to a transformer-based XLR input module. Plug-and-play modules can be readily installed or upgraded at any time. The optional Phono RIAA amplifier has an improved signal-to-noise ratio, reduced system-related distortion, and widened bandwidth. Optional tone control, stepped volume attenuator (47 positions), and Control Modul (tone/balance/output selection) round out the customization program.

Standard Octave Power Management, Soft-Start Electronics, Gain Selector, Monitor/Record Output, and HT Bypass. Silver or Black chassis. Available at LMC by appointment.