Improving a Highly Rated Bestseller
Although Vincent also manufactures elegant, high performance multi-channel components for audio and home theater, the German company's designers feel particularly dedicated to the classic tradition of two-channel hi-fi audio. In order to get the best possible sound from a stereo system, there is no substitute for a 'separates' system consisting of a dedicated preamplifier and power amplifier. This is Vincent's passion, which comes to full fruition in the brand new SP-332 hybrid vacuum tube and solid state power amp.
In its continuing quest for excellence, Vincent refuses to compromise, opining that the all-too-frequent use of price-conscious design in preamplifiers and amplifiers undermines the benefits of a 'separates' system by settling for lower sound quality. For this reason, Vincent does not manufacture entry level models for stereo preamplifiers and stereo main amplifiers. This also makes sense because, irrespective of any development in the audio market in terms of source material, a premium preamp and power amp can continue to be used in any system you may have in the future. That's because today's and tomorrow's data formats will always have to find their way to your loudspeakers, and for best performance, that route involves a top quality power amplifier such as the beautiful SP-332.
"A Quintessential 'Affordable Audiophile' Combination"
"This is a quintessential 'affordable audiophile' combination," notes Australia's StereoNET in David Price's review of the SP-332 power amplifier and matching SA-32 preamplifier. "Vincent has become something of a cult amongst cash-strapped hi-fi enthusiasts, who can't stretch to true high end but still insist on serious sound. That's precisely what this SA-32/SP-332 combo offers."
Upgrades and Enhancements
Vincent's SP-331 hybrid power amp has been a company mainstay for years. So why attempt to improve such a highly rated bestseller? Because that's just what Vincent does. The SP-332 is intended as an enhancement of the SP-331, upgrading it by providing higher quality rear panel inputs. Both balanced XLR inputs and single-ended RCA inputs are on tap, and the inputs are selectable via a rear panel switch. This versatility makes the Vincent compatible with the widest possible range of preamplifiers on the market, and it will bring out the best in any quality preamp you pair it with.
The SP-332 also has dual speaker outputs, which can be individually switched on and off. Use this handy function to listen to different types of music with two different pairs of loudspeakers, if that's how your tastes and budget are inclined. Or listen to music in two different rooms and enjoy the gorgeous Vincent sound in different settings.
The Best of Both Worlds
The SP-332 brings the best of two worlds to audiophiles, combining the advantages of both transistor amplifiers and vacuum tube components. You get the Golden Age sonic benefits of classic tube gear along with the reliability and control of solid state gear. And it goes without saying that the SA-32 delivers the highest manufacturing quality and excellent value for money.
This amplifier is the ideal partner for Vincent's SA-32 or SA-31MK preamp, as well as DVD players, CD players, tuners, headphone amplifiers and loudspeakers from the Vincent range. However, you'll also find that it partners beautifully with any high quality audiophile components.
Classic Vacuum Tube Warmth and Richness
Inside the SP-332 are 6N16 tubes working in differential push-pull design in the input stage, giving the sound the classic warmth and richness that you can only achieve through the use of vacuum tubes. The solid state output stage is powered by eight formidable FET transistors for the final amplification. These transistors provide 150 watt-per-channel at 8 ohms and will effortlessly drive even the most demanding loudspeakers.
In the power supply, a 500W toroidal transformer provides the muscle required for power on demand with 80,000 µF. This contributes to the highly accurate, profoundly powerful sound and deep, responsive bass. Voltage stabilization is provided by a 6N15 tube.
Looks as Good as It Sounds
With its hybrid tube and transistor design, the SP-332 has a lot going on under the hood. However, the handsome exterior of this unit is sleek and minimal. The most striking front panel feature is the new pair VU meters. The color backlight of these meters and the status LEDs can be switched between red, blue, green, or white light using a sliding switch on the back.
