Synthesis Magnum 100
Italian hybrid integrated amplifier with an ECC88 valve preamp stage and transistor power stage, for warm stereo listening at home.
Description
The Magnum 100 is a hybrid integrated amplifier designed and manufactured in Italy by Synthesis. It combines a valve preamplification stage and a transistor power stage in a single unit intended to drive a pair of stereo speakers directly.
The hybrid architecture is built around a preamplifier fitted with two ECC88 valves, followed by a solid-state power stage delivering 2 × 60 W into 8 ohms, or 100 W into 4 ohms. This combination allows the sonic colouration typical of valves to be enjoyed at the signal input stage, while relying on the stability and output current offered by the transistor stage to drive the speakers. Frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, with a signal-to-noise ratio of 90 dB on line input.
With dimensions of 440 × 350 × 120 mm and a weight of 9 kg, the unit remains compact given its hybrid design, where the valve stage typically adds bulk compared with an all-transistor amplifier.
This type of amplifier is aimed at listeners seeking the nuanced sound typical of valve stages, without giving up the robustness of a transistor power stage for driving speakers of average sensitivity. It suits a compact stereo setup, in a living room or office, where the unit serves as the sole source of amplification.
Technical specifications
| Type | Hybrid integrated amplifier (tubes + transistors) |
| Power | 2 × 60 W (8 Ω) / 100 W (4 Ω) |
| Preamplifier | Tube (2 × ECC88) |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 20 kHz |
| Signal to noise ratio | 90 dB (line) |
| Dimensions (W × D × H) | 440 × 350 × 120 mm |
| Weight | 9 kg |
| Manufacturing | Italy |
What to check before buying used
The preamplifier's ECC88 valves wear and lose linearity with hours of use: unusual hiss, microphonics or a channel weaker than the other indicate tired valves that should be scheduled for replacement. The coupling and filter capacitors, stressed by the valve stage, are worth checking after several years, as are the selector and potentiometer contacts, often prone to crackling on this type of unit if left unused for long periods. A check of the matching between the two transistor output channels should complete the inspection before purchase.
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