Усилители мощности стерео — Audio Note P2 SE Signature

Audio Note (UK) builds the P2 SE Signature as a stereo valve power amplifier, the single-ended member of the P2 family that also includes a push-pull version. It runs in pure Class A, and the Signature grade adds better parts over the plain P2 SE, including copper foil in oil signal capacitors, tantalum resistors in the most critical positions and C-core output transformers wound with copper wire.

Key specs that matter

Each channel uses a pair of 6L6G (5881) pentode output valves connected in parallel single-ended, with two 6SL7 triodes shared across both channels ahead of them. Rated output is 18 W RMS per channel into 4 or 8 ohm. Input impedance is 100 kilohm at line level, and Audio Note quotes 430 mV for full output on the SE version. Channel balance stays within plus or minus 0.3 dB. Maximum power consumption is 90 W, from an AC 100 to 120 V or 220 to 240 V supply at 50 or 60 Hz. The chassis measures 140 mm high, 295 mm wide and 450 mm deep, and weighs 17 kg.

Engineering and use context

The SE circuit uses dual power supplies and dual mains transformers, so each channel draws from its own supply rather than sharing one. Output transformers are designed and made in house by Audio Note (UK), and the signal path includes the company's own tinfoil capacitors. One pair of RCA inputs is fitted, and a volume control on the fascia adjusts gain. That control means the P2 SE Signature can also be driven directly by a single line source, such as a CD player, with no separate preamplifier in the chain. Paralleling two output valves per side in single-ended mode raises the current available to the transformer while keeping the topology in which one device set handles the full waveform. The front panel comes finished in anodised aluminium or else black acrylic.

Pairing

With moderate power in single-ended form, loudspeakers of high efficiency and a benign impedance curve are the natural match. A valve preamplifier such as one from the Audio Note range suits the high input impedance, while owners with only one source can use the front volume control and skip the preamplifier altogether.

Alternatives

Audio Note offers the P2 in a push-pull version rated at 20 W RMS per channel with a 350 mV input sensitivity.