Llano Designs 200-S Amplifier (SS) Review by mikem

After owning 2 different Krell amps, I wanted something that was smoother but also able to deliever slam. I decided on a Llano 200-S stereo amp. This amp is very smooth with fantastic controlled bass. I thought Krell was the king of bass slam and control. The Llano wins the title. The amp is a Class A design with 2 gain stages. It has balanced and single ended inputs. It also can run in bridged operation. The amp is class A but runs cool. It tracks the rails and only provides the necessary power needed. Krell is using a similar technology in their amps called plateau biasing.
The amp is very smooth.. not quite tube like, but not harsh or etchy as some SS amps can be. I have it paired with a BAT VK5i which seems to be a good combo. If you listen to big-band music or music with lots of brass... this amp is worth looking into.
The amp is built very well with nice large heat sinks of very high quality.
The amp has a small foot print and fits nicely on a standard size shelf.
I got the optional cardas brass binding posts. The amp provides 2 sets for bi-wire. I replaced the power cord as the one supplied is only 18GA .

Product Weakness:	Llano design is hard to contact and communicate with. Limited product info available from their web site.
Product Strengths:	Smooth and refinded sounding, yet powerful. Well built, simple design.

• Nice review; BTW, how does the 200-S compare with the 100-S? Audiophilander 15:36:06 4/19/99 (1)
  • Re: Nice review; BTW, how does the 200-S compare with the 100-S? mikem 09:49:48 4/20/99 (0)