Transcendent Sound Super Compact 150 Amplifier (Tube) Review by mike b


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Model: Super Compact 150
Category: Amplifier (Tube)
Suggested Retail Price: $1998/pr
Description: monoblocks, 150 wts each, push-pull, EL-509 output tubes
Manufacturer URL: Transcendent Sound
Model Picture: View

Review by mike b on August 08, 1999 at 21:07:22
IP Address: 166.90.32.114
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for the Super Compact 150


Bottom line: If you are in the market for an amp with plenty of low end punch, clear, clean extended highs, and ultra-quick transient response, you should give the Super Compacts a listen. The presentation is a bit forward, but well balanced, accurate, and detailed without a hint of harshness or grain. They handle both macro and micro dynamics with ease due to their quickness.
I consider myself a bit of a tweaker, but since purchasing these mono-blocks, I have lost the urge (at least tweaking my amp). Taking a peek under the hood, you will find excellent build quality, no designer parts, but good quality parts nonetheless. Although I have not tweaked my Super Compacts, I have done some tube rolling. I replaced the stock 12AU7s with RCA clear tops, and the 12AX7s with Raytheon 5751s. I also tried RCA grey plates (5751s) in the 12AX7 position, but I prefer the Raytheons

In summary, I highly recommend the Super Compacts. These are not finicky amps, No matter what your musical tastes, or speakers you will be driving, these mono-blocks are likely to deliver the performance you want. One would be hard-pressed to find a better price/performance ratio. Bruce Rozenblit is almost giving these babies away. Furthermore, I prefer directing my audio dollars to small companies and dealing direct with the designers.


Product Weakness: None discovered thus far
Product Strengths: Low-end punch, clear extend highs, very quick transient response excellent price/performance ratio


Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier: Super Compacts
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated): Home brew passive
Sources (CDP/Turntable): Denon 560
Speakers: Gallo Solos
Cables/Interconnects: SST interconnects, Jon Risch Belden cables
Music Used (Genre/Selections): Mainly Jazz, female vocal, some rock
Room Size (LxWxH): 24 x 16 x 9
Time Period/Length of Audition: 3 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.): One AC isolation transformer
Type of Audition/Review: Product Owner


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