Advance Paris A12 Apex 30th
Hybrid integrated amplifier combining valves and transistors, with built-in MM/MC phono stage and Bluetooth and HDMI eARC connectivity, for discerning music lovers in both Hi-Fi and Home Cinema settings.
Description
The A12 Apex is a hybrid integrated amplifier combining valve preamplification with Class A/B transistor amplification featuring High-Bias. This mixed architecture aims to bring together the sonic texture associated with valves and the power delivery characteristic of transistor stages, for a musical reproduction that is both warm and controlled.
The preamplification stage relies on ECC81 / 12AT7 valves, whilst digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by an ESS9039 DAC. The unit delivers 2 x 190 W RMS into 8 ohms and 2 x 292 W RMS into 4 ohms, with a harmonic distortion of 0.047% measured at 135 W and a signal-to-noise ratio of 104.8 dB. Its frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 80 kHz at ±1 dB. The power supply is built around two toroidal transformers, ensuring stability under heavy load.
The A12 Apex features a built-in RIAA phono preamplifier compatible with MM and MC cartridges, allowing a turntable to be connected directly without an external phono stage. It also offers an HDMI eARC input with CEC functions, which synchronises the amplifier's power-on with that of the television and allows volume control from the TV remote. The AMP-IN inputs allow it to be integrated into a Home Cinema setup for amplifying the main left and right speakers. Two subwoofer outputs, configurable in mono or stereo, complete the package for bass management. Bluetooth connectivity is provided via the A-BTC dongle, which allows a phone, tablet, computer or wireless headphones to be connected.
This model is aimed at Hi-Fi enthusiasts who own a turntable and want a versatile amplifier capable of covering both demanding music listening and Home Cinema use via HDMI eARC. Its output power and two subwoofer outputs suit systems with high-impedance speakers or those requiring bass reinforcement.
Technical specifications
| Output power into 8 ohms | 2 x 190 W RMS |
| Output power into 4 ohms | 2 x 292 W RMS |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 80 kHz (+/- 1 dB) |
| THD+N distortion | 0.047% (135 W) |
| Signal to noise ratio | 104.8 dB |
| Valves | ECC81 / 12AT7 |
| DAC | ESS9039 |
| Amplification class | A/B with High-Bias |
| Transformer | 2 x Toroidal |
| Mains voltage | 115/230 V 50/60 Hz |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 192 x 430 x 454 mm |
| Net weight | 18.2 kg |
| Gross weight | 21.9 kg |
What to check before buying used
The ECC81 valve preamp stage deserves a listening test to check for hiss, hum or a veiled sound indicating tired valves, which are easy to replace but should be checked before purchase. Also check the volume potentiometer, as crackling or channel imbalance at low levels often points to wear. Finally, test the RIAA phono stage and the HDMI eARC input with CEC, whose synchronisation with the television can drift out of alignment over time.
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