Preamplifiers — Vincent SA-32MK

The Vincent SA-32MK is a hybrid stereo preamplifier from the powerLine range and the updated MK version of the SA-32, which Vincent introduced in 2017. The powerLine family of preamplifiers traces back to the SA-31 of 1996, and the SA-32 models belong to the same family of hybrid designs. The main change is a newly integrated Bluetooth module for wireless streaming from compatible portable devices and computers. The audio circuitry is carried over from the original and is a hybrid of valve and solid-state stages.

Key specs that matter

Frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 0.5 dB and 20 Hz to 50 kHz within 2 dB. Nominal output voltage is 2 V, input sensitivity is 500 mV and input impedance is 47 kOhm. Distortion is rated at 0.1 percent THD at 1 kHz and 1 W, with S/N above 90 dB. Connections on the back panel number four RCA inputs and a balanced XLR input, making six sources once Bluetooth is counted. On the output side the MK provides a pair of RCA pre-outs, a balanced XLR pre-out and a fixed-level RCA recording output. Maximum power consumption is 40 W.

Engineering and use context

The SA-32MK keeps the 430 x 77 x 360 mm chassis of its predecessor and its 6.2 kg weight. Buyers can order it finished in black or in silver. Four valves of the 6N16 type sit within a circuit whose remaining gain stages are transistors operating in Class A. The valves handle the input gain stage and the gain stage that follows the tone controls. Those bass and treble controls are retained unchanged from the original SA-32. The Bluetooth receiver and its antenna are mounted at the rear of the case. Unlike the SA-32 AE anniversary model, this revision has no wired digital inputs such as optical, coaxial or HDMI. Vincent states that the three stereo pre-outputs make the unit suitable for bi-amping. Product images show the VRC-14 remote control supplied with it.

Pairing

The stereo XLR pre-out connects to a power amplifier with balanced inputs, and the two RCA pre-outs serve amplifiers with unbalanced connections, which is the basis of the bi-amping capability. A smartphone, tablet or laptop can be paired directly over Bluetooth as a wireless source, while the four RCA inputs remain free for players, tuners and other line-level equipment.

Alternatives

Another option from the brand is the SA-T7MK preamplifier.