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Power amplifiers stereo — Kondo Audio Note Japan Ongaku
Description, images, technical data and specifications
Kondo Audio Note Japan Ongaku
Image source — © Kondo Audio Note Japan
The Ongaku is a legendary stereo power amplifier from Kondo Audio Note Japan, one of the most celebrated names in purist tube-informed high-end audio, built with a substantial input impedance. The Ongaku represents Kondo's most storied statement in power amplifier engineering.
Key specs that matter
Input impedance is a substantial 100,000 ohms on both balanced and single-ended connections. Output power is a modest 2 x 27W into 8 ohms - a classic low-power single-ended triode figure reflecting the celebrated topology's inherent power limitations. Frequency response spans 10Hz to 21,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Maximum power consumption is 270W. At 284 x 240 x 550mm and 34kg, the Ongaku's considerable weight reflects serious internal transformer engineering consistent with Kondo's purist, uncompromising Japanese engineering philosophy.
Sound and use context
Expect the exceptionally rich, harmonically textured character single-ended triode amplification is broadly celebrated for among discerning enthusiasts, with the modest 27W-per-channel output demanding notably efficient loudspeaker partners.
Pairing
The modest 27W-per-channel output pairs best with notably efficient loudspeakers - typically 95dB sensitivity or higher - to achieve satisfying dynamic headroom.
Alternatives
Kondo's own Melius offers a somewhat more powerful alternative within the same broader catalogue.
Key specs that matter
Input impedance is a substantial 100,000 ohms on both balanced and single-ended connections. Output power is a modest 2 x 27W into 8 ohms - a classic low-power single-ended triode figure reflecting the celebrated topology's inherent power limitations. Frequency response spans 10Hz to 21,000Hz within plus-or-minus 3dB. Maximum power consumption is 270W. At 284 x 240 x 550mm and 34kg, the Ongaku's considerable weight reflects serious internal transformer engineering consistent with Kondo's purist, uncompromising Japanese engineering philosophy.
Sound and use context
Expect the exceptionally rich, harmonically textured character single-ended triode amplification is broadly celebrated for among discerning enthusiasts, with the modest 27W-per-channel output demanding notably efficient loudspeaker partners.
Pairing
The modest 27W-per-channel output pairs best with notably efficient loudspeakers - typically 95dB sensitivity or higher - to achieve satisfying dynamic headroom.
Alternatives
Kondo's own Melius offers a somewhat more powerful alternative within the same broader catalogue.
Specifications
Model name
Ongaku
Input sensitivity (mV)
N/A
Input impedance (balanced) (Ω)
100 000
Input impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
100 000
Output impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Output impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Max current (A)
N/A
Output power (8Ω) (W)
2 x 27
Output power (4Ω) (W)
N/A
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
10
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
21 000
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
N/A
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (0% global feedback) (%)
N/A
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (100% global feedback) (%)
N/A
Max power consumption (W)
270
Damping factor
N/A
Dimensions (mm)
284 x 240 x 550
Weight (kg)
34
Official link
More components
Power amplifiers stereo
Kondo Audio Note Japan Melius