Valve Audio is a South African designer and manufacturer of top class hybrid valve amplifiers and supplies a full range – from integrated stereo units, to exquisite pre / power combinations. We also supply the [ Whisper ], a phono pre-amplifier that currently has the audiophile community speechless.
The apparent disparity between tube and transistor-based designs is at the core of the amplification designed and produced by Schalk Havenga, proprietor of Valve Audio.
As the name implies, Valve Audios amplification products employ tubes, but not exclusively so. Rather, they reflect a hybrid design approach, in which the gain stages are valve driven, while the output stages are solid state.
In theory, therefore, the Valve Audio kit should provide both the lush tonality that tube adherents enjoy, and the speed, accuracy and dynamic intent associated with solid state.
Product web site link: Valve Audio – Integrated amplifiers, Pre-amplifier / Power Amplifier combos, Dual Mono block Power Amplifiers, Valve Phono Stages
The Genesis pre-amplifier is a fully balanced design utilising both the 6922 and 6H30 valves in classic differential configuration. Volume control is achieved by phase cancellation using the Alps Blue Velvet volume control. Dedicated transformers for logic, low voltage and high voltage supplies.
Specifications:
Dual mono design
Fully balanced design
480 VA total toroidal power transformers
Tube complement: 4 x 6922, 4 x 6H30
Dimensions W 450, H 115, D 500 (mm)
Weight: 22kg