Vincent SV-500
Hybrid integrated amplifier from Vincent, combining valve preamplification with a transistor power stage, with a built-in DAC for digital sources.
Description
The Vincent SV-500 is a hybrid integrated amplifier, designed as a more accessible variant of the SV-227, one of the brand's flagship integrated amplifiers. It shares the design of its elder sibling as well as a similar circuit architecture, combining valve and transistor technology within a single unit.
The preamplification stage uses two 6N1 type valves and one 12AX7 valve, responsible for shaping the signal before amplification. The output is then handled by four Toshiba transistors. This hybrid design aims to combine the sonic warmth associated with valves with the power and stability provided by transistors. The power supply relies on a 110 watt toroidal transformer and two capacitors of 20,000 µF each, intended to provide instantaneous power reserves.
In terms of connectivity, the SV-500 offers four analogue RCA inputs as well as two digital inputs, one optical and one coaxial. A Burr-Brown digital-to-analogue converter is built in, capable of processing signals up to 24-bit/192 kHz. A preamplifier output and a REC output complete the unit, allowing respectively the connection of a subwoofer or a recording device. An aluminium remote control is supplied with the unit.
This type of amplifier is aimed at hi-fi enthusiasts wishing to enjoy a sound that is both warm and dynamic, without multiplying separate components. Its connectivity versatility, with both analogue and digital inputs, makes it a sensible choice for combining physical sources and modern digital sources within the same system.
Technical specifications
| Number of analogue inputs (RCA) | 4 |
| Number of digital inputs | 2 (optical and coaxial) |
| Digital to analogue converter | Burr-Brown |
| Maximum sampling frequency | 24-bit/192 kHz |
| Toroidal transformer power | 110 W |
| Capacitor capacity | 20,000 µF |
| Preamplification valves | 2x 6N1, 1x 12AX7 |
| Output transistors | 4x Toshiba |
| Additional outputs | Preamplifier, REC |
What to check before buying used
Let the amplifier warm up for a good ten minutes before judging the sound: the 6N1 and 12AX7 valves are consumables, and a muffled or hissing sound, or one channel weaker than the other, often points to tired valves in need of replacement. Also check that the input selector and volume potentiometer produce no crackling when operated, a sign of worn contacts. A hum on start-up may indicate ageing of the 20,000 µF capacitors, worth watching on a unit that has seen heavy use.
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