Integrated amplifiers — Vincent SV-200

The Vincent SV-200 is a compact hybrid integrated amplifier from the tubeLine series of the German brand, described by the maker as the smaller sibling of the SV-237MK and SV-700. It pairs a valve input stage with transistor power amplification and adds a digital-to-analogue converter, so a single box covers both analogue and digital sources. Black and silver finishes are offered.

Key specs that matter

Vincent rates output at 2 x 25 W RMS into 8 ohm and 2 x 35 W RMS into 4 ohm. Frequency response runs from 20 Hz to 20 kHz within 0.5 dB, total harmonic distortion stays below 0.1 percent measured at 1 kHz and 1 W, with a quoted S/N figure better than 72 dB. Each line input needs 220 mV for full output and presents 47 kOhm to the source. Maximum power consumption is given as 125 W, and the unit weighs 5 kg.

Engineering and use context

Two 6N1 tubes handle signal conditioning in the input stage, and Vincent links this stage to low noise and dynamic performance. The supply section uses an oversized toroidal transformer, with electrolytic capacitors providing a total smoothing capacity of 13,600 µF to keep the supply clean. Toshiba transistors are used in the output stage. PCM signals reach the built-in DAC at up to 24-bit/192 kHz, and the converter is listed for WAV, FLAC, APE, LPCM, MP3, AAC, AC3 and WMA formats. Connections comprise two stereo RCA analogue inputs plus a coaxial and an optical socket for digital sources. On the output side there is a variable RCA pre out, a fixed-level RCA recording output, a double set of speaker binding posts and two 3.5 mm jacks that carry 12 V power control signals so that connected units power up in step. The front panel has a loudness function and an illuminated window onto the tubes whose brightness can be adjusted, and a metal remote control comes in the box.

Pairing

The variable pre out lets the SV-200 feed a separate power amp or a powered sub, while the recording output feeds a recorder at a fixed level. A CD transport, TV or streamer with an optical or coaxial output can use the built-in converter directly, and records need an outboard phono preamp like the Vincent PHO-200, since no phono input is fitted. The power control jacks allow other Vincent components with matching sockets to follow the amplifier's power state.

Alternatives

Within Vincent's integrated amplifier range the SV-228 is another hybrid design, placed in the powerLine series.