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"Recommended Without Hesitation," Raves StereophileThe Octave V 40 SE is a superb line level integrated vacuum tube amplifier with 2 x 40 W peak output power. This amp is a development and direct descendant of the successful V 40 and V 50 amplifier models. The powerful, clear bass fundamentals and captivating resolution in the high frequencies have won much respect. Unique features vault the V 40 SE well into the 21st Century, while its performance earned the rare "Stereoplay Highlight" honor, a prestigious award bestowed by the German high-end audio magazine Stereoplay. "There's no doubt in my mind that the V 40 SE represents good value, in the quality of its construction and its sound," notes Art Dudley in his Stereophile review for July 25, 2014. "Especially for those who want tube performance without tube hassle, the Octave V 40 SE Line can be recommended without hesitation." "I Can't Recommend the Octave Audio V 40 SE Highly Enough""How best to summarize a component like Octave's V 40 SE? As a tube component for people who never dared to consider tubes before (because this amp is robust and has comprehensive protection circuitry)?" asks Marten Mertens in his German-language fairaudio.de review translated and reprinted at 6moons.com, May 2010. "It doesn't sound like tubes, but is very neutral, very fast and resolved and simply happens to accomplish all that with tubes." "The Octave Audio V 40 SE is more than a bit special," raves Graham Abbott, soundstagenetwork.com, July 1, 2011. "It combines the grip and drive of a much more powerful amplifier with levels of transparency and detail that you'd be happy to find in a far more expensive product. It appeals to both the heart and head, and delivers a sound that modernizes traditional notions of what a tube amplifier at this price point can be and do… I can't recommend the Octave Audio V 40 SE highly enough." Powerful, Stable Tube DesignThe V 40 SE output stage consists of two power pentodes (6550 tubes) for each channel. Due to the BIAS Control and Monitoring System, the use of other pin-compatible output tubes is possible to match the amplifier to your personal taste or to benefit from new or improved tubes. Like all Octave Amps the, V 40 SE is based on the enhanced pentode configuration. This configuration ensures the absolute stability of the amplifier against the unstable impedance of the loudspeaker. Impedance mismatch is without consequence, and the V 40 SE is stable down to a 2 Ohm Load. An important contributor to this stability is the single impedance output transformer. The V 40 SE is the perfect amp for speakers with an average efficiency rating. But not only is the low impedance capability an advantage, but with its exceptional Signal-to-Noise ratio of –110dB / Full Power, the V 40 SE is also an ideal partner for high efficiency loudspeakers. Included with the V 40 SE is a simple but very useful wireless remote control with exceptional 'hand feel' and a great look. Inputs and OutputsThe V 40 SE features a total of five single-ended (RCA) inputs (including the Home Theater Bypass input). Outputs included are one RCA Record output, one regulated Preamplifier output, and one Loudspeaker output. Ecomode Reduces Heat and Power ConsumptionA forward-looking feature is the unique ECOMODE power saving electronic circuitry developed to reduce heat and unnecessary power consumption when the amplifier is switched on but not in use. This electronic system controls the power condition and reduces power consumption when the amplifier does not receive a signal for a period exceeding 10 minutes. In this "sleep" mode, the V 40 SE draws only 20 W idle current. Virtually no heat is produced by the unit, and the heater voltage and the high voltage for the power amplifier section are switched off. When a signal is detected by the V 40 SE, the Ecomode circuit will turn the amplifier back on, with a warm-up/start-up delay of approximately 30 seconds before the unit will operate. Ecomode also serves to increase the lifetime of the tubes, while having an added benefit of improved safety allowing the V 40 SE owner a level of security against any problems when leaving the unit powered on. BIAS AdjustmentThe output stage of the V 40 SE operates in Class A/B, and therefore requires an adjustable BIAS regulation. The highly sophisticated yet extremely simple and accurate BIAS calibration system is accessed on the front panel of the unit. It utilizes external precision bias trim pots and LED confirmation, allowing the user to readily monitor the output tubes and simply correct their bias individually at the front panel - without the need of a micrometer let alone any special knowledge or tools. The correct BIAS is vital for the constant sound quality of the V 40 SE. Due to this facility there is no need for a technician to service the V 40 SE for changing or tubes or to check their condition. The precision of this user friendly system is within 0.5% accuracy. Power Management and Protection SystemThe V 40 SE is equipped with a multi-stage Soft-Start/Turn-On protection circuit which extends component as well as tube life considerably by protecting against stress caused by typical high inrush currents during switch-on. The unit starts in a defined sequence, with the Protection System monitoring the V 40 SE completely, and activated whenever a malfunction is detected. Once the Protection is activated, the V 40 SE is powered down. Overview
"There's no doubt in my mind that the V 40 SE represents good value, in the quality of its construction and its sound. Especially for those who want tube performance without tube hassle, the Octave V 40 SE Line can be recommended without hesitation." - Art Dudley, Stereophile, July 25, 2014 "How best to summarize a component like Octave's V 40 SE? As a tube component for people who never dared to consider tubes before (because this amp is robust and has comprehensive protection circuitry)? It doesn't sound like tubes, but is very neutral, very fast and resolved and simply happens to accomplish all that with tubes. - Marten Mertens, fairaudio.de reprinted and translated at 6moons.com, May 2010 "The Octave Audio V 40 SE is more than a bit special. It combines the grip and drive of a much more powerful amplifier with levels of transparency and detail that you'd be happy to find in a far more expensive product. It appeals to both the heart and head, and delivers a sound that modernizes traditional notions of what a tube amplifier at this price point can be and do. Yes, that might mean that those of us who are familiar with traditional tube sound will have to adjust our ears slightly, but the V 40 SE provides such a comprehensive, immediate, liquid, and transparent sound for virtually any genre of music that the adjustment is painless. For those in pursuit of excellent sound regardless of output device, who want set-and-forget convenience and reliability, and are looking in this price range or even much higher, I can't recommend the Octave Audio V 40 SE highly enough." - Graham Abbott, soundstagenetwork.com, July 1, 2011 |
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