Octave Audio RE320
Stereo power amplifier with KT150 valves in push-pull configuration, delivering 2 x 130 W RMS into 4 ohms, intended for high-fidelity systems driven by a separate preamplifier.
Description
The RE 320 from Octave Audio is a stereo tube power amplifier, designed to be paired with a separate preamplifier. It draws on circuit design principles from the brand's Jubilee SE line, with a revised amplification stage, a power supply dedicated to this concept, and wide-bandwidth output transformers.
The output stage is built around KT150 pentodes in push-pull configuration, capable of delivering 2 x 130 W RMS into 4 ohms in the High position of the selector, and 2 x 75 W RMS in the Low position. Into 8 ohms, available power decreases by 20%. Peak output reaches 2 x 150 W on both channels, and 140 W on a single channel in the Low position of the Power Selector. This power reserve matters more than the nominal figure: it determines the unit's ability to handle transients without sagging.
The frequency response spans 5 Hz to 85 kHz at -3 dB for a 5 W level, and 25 Hz to 85 kHz at -3 dB at full power. Noise level is stated as under 100 µV between 150 Hz and 15 kHz, or better than -110 dB, which limits residual audible hiss with high-sensitivity speakers. The minimum load impedance of 2 ohms allows the use of difficult loads, often problematic for a tube amplifier.
The dual unbalanced and balanced connectivity eases integration into an existing system, including with long cable runs where XLR remains preferable. Precise BIAS adjustment, the power switch adapted to different tube types, the economy mode, and the socket for an external Black Box are geared towards a listener who wants to manage their setup over the long term rather than accept the constraints of a sealed unit. It suits demanding listening in a medium to large room, with speakers whose impedance dips low.
Technical specifications
| Power (4 ohms) High | 2 x 130 W RMS |
| Power (4 ohms) Low | 2 x 75 W RMS |
| Peak power (4 ohms) | 2 x 150 W on both channels |
| Power Selector Low | 140 W on one channel |
| Power into 8 ohms | reduced by 20% |
| Frequency response (full power) | 25 Hz - 85 kHz / -3 dB |
| Frequency response (5 W) | 5 Hz - 85 kHz / -3 dB |
| Noise | < 100 µV from 150 Hz to 15 kHz, > -110 dB |
| Input sensitivity | 0.8 V RCA; 1.6 V XLR |
| Input resistance | 220 kOhm RCA; 20 kOhm XLR |
| XLR input CMRR | > 85 dB at 1 kHz |
| Minimum load impedance | 2 ohms |
| Gain | +28 dB (RCA) |
| Power valves | KT150 in push-pull |
| Connectivity | RCA and XLR inputs, connection for external Black Box |
What to check before buying used
On the used market, attention should first focus on the set of KT150 valves: accumulated hours, tube matching, and absence of any whitish haze or deposit inside the bulbs. Check that the BIAS adjustment remains within its correction range and that the associated indicators work, as a worn or unbalanced tube directly affects distortion and transformer longevity. Also check the position of the power switch relative to the tubes actually fitted, the condition of the valve sockets and contacts, and the absence of any abnormal hum at idle, a typical symptom of tired power supply capacitors. The output transformers, being heavy and costly parts, should be examined visually, as should the RCA and XLR sockets, which see frequent use.
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