Vincent SV-228
Vincent SV-228 hybrid integrated amplifier, combining a tube stage and a transistor section to deliver 2x100 W into 8 ohm.
Description
The Vincent SV-228 is a hybrid integrated amplifier that combines a tube input stage with a transistor power section. This architecture allows speakers to be driven directly without going through a separate power amplifier, while retaining the sonic qualities associated with valve electronics upstream of the signal.
The tube stage is built around a 6N4 valve paired with two ECC82s, tasked with shaping the signal before amplification by the power transistors. This section delivers 2 x 100 W RMS into 8 ohms and 2 x 180 W into 4 ohms, enough to drive current-hungry speakers. The frequency response spans 20 Hz to 50 kHz, total harmonic distortion remains below 0.1% at 1 kHz and 1 W, and the signal-to-noise ratio exceeds 90 dB. Input sensitivity is 560 mV for an input impedance of 47 kOhm.
On the connectivity side, the SV-228 offers RCA stereo inputs, a coaxial input and an optical input for digital sources, as well as a direct power input (Main In), a preamp output (Pre Out) and a recording output (Rec Out). It supports playback of digital files in WAV, FLAC, APE, LPCM, MP3, AAC, AC3 and WMA formats via its digital input.
This type of amplifier is aimed at enthusiasts seeking versatile electronics capable of accepting both analogue sources and compressed or uncompressed digital sources, while enjoying the distinctive character brought by the tube stage. Its available power into 4 ohms makes it a sensible choice for low-impedance or less sensitive speakers.
Technical specifications
| Power | 2 x 100 W RMS into 8 ohms / 2 x 180 W RMS into 4 ohms |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz – 50 kHz |
| Total harmonic distortion | < 0.1% (1 kHz, 1 W) |
| Input sensitivity | 560 mV |
| Signal to noise ratio | > 90 dB |
| Input impedance | 47 kOhm |
| Valves | 1 x 6N4, 2 x ECC82 |
| Compatible digital formats | WAV, FLAC, APE, LPCM, MP3, AAC, AC3, WMA |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 152 x 430 x 450 mm |
| Weight | 15.5 kg |
What to check before buying used
The 6N4 valve and the two ECC82s should be tested at start-up: a crackling, unstable sound or an untimely shutdown into standby indicates a tired set of tubes that will need replacing. Also check that the volume potentiometer does not crackle at the end of its travel, a sign of oxidation frequently seen on this type of hybrid stage, and that the original capacitors have not bulged. Checking ventilation around the tube assembly, often overlooked, rules out any risk of premature overheating.
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