Virtue Audio Sensation M901 Amplifier
This is arguably the best Tripath-based T-amp in existence and has had many positive reviews. In relation to other t-amps, it has more power, more inputs, superior sound and superb build quality.
The amp will also run on batteries, which is highly recommended and gives a clearer, more open sound. I used 2 x 12v 4.5Ah rechargeable SLA batteries wired in series to give 24v output.
One reviewer (link below) said this about the M451 (a lesser model) running on batteries:
"While the regular M451 has a character that could pass as being a part of the Naim family, the battery driven M451 sounds a lot like a mini-me version of the McIntosh MA7000. Now for those of you who are not already familiar with the MA7000, it's an integrated whose aural arrangement strays a bit from McIntosh's usual array of warm and meaty sounding equipment. So instead of blanketing the music with vivid harmonics, the MA7000 brings forth a very "tell it like it is" presentation that slides ever so slightly to the forward side of the neutral yardstick. Sonic highlights of the MA7000 include wonderful top to bottom coherence, exceptional treble and midrange articulation, great detail, strong bass, and a dark background that allows for pinpoint spatial focus across a capacious soundstage. Now the only reason I mention all of this is because that is exactly how the M451 sounds. The only thing that really separates the M451 from the MA7000 is $6500 and how well each piece gets the above job done."
Less than 1 year old and from a smoke-free home. Looks and works as good as new.
Remote control, power supply, manual and all original packaging included.
Total cost new including import duty and postage was about £850. I'm asking £500, but sensible offers will be considered. I accept PayPal payments, but bank transfer would be preferred.
More info here:
http://store.virtueaudio.com/product-p/vrtu-ia-ssm901-pbf-1.htmKey features:
· High-power, reference-grade amplifier for any audio source
· World-class engineering by Roger Sheker, Audience LLC
· Max 30v, 87 wpc @ 4 ohms
· 33,000 uF power capacitor
· Auricap input capacitors
· Cryo-treated Auric hookup wire
· Heatpipe thermal management
· Tellurium copper Propeller Posts
· Tellurium copper RCA jacks
· Buffered mono subwoofer pre-out
· Stereo pre-outs (using LM4562 op-amps)
· Aluminium and steel chassis
· ALPS potentiometer (RK16 motorized)
· Three RCA inputs
· High nickel, ultra-low loss, torroidal output inductors
· Full featured remote control
· Soft-start circuit
· Safe for use with all high-current power supplies up to 30v including battery packs.
· Black front & side panels
· Rosewood veneered top
· Chrome knobs & buttons
· Basic 24v switch mode PSU.
· User manual
· Original packaging
· Dimensions: 4"H x 10.5"W x 10"D
· RoHS
Reviews:
http://www.tnt-audio.com/ampli/virtue_sensation_e.htmlhttp://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue50/virtue_audio.htmhttp://www.sonicflare.com/archives/review-the-virtue-audio-sensation-m451-integrated-amplifier.phphttp://www.stereomojo.com/Virtue%20Audio%20Sensation%20review.htm/VirtueAudioSensationreview.htmhttp://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/1110/virtue_audio_sensation_m451.htmhttp://www.digitalaudioreview.net/2010/09/virtue-sensation-m901-integrated-amplifierPlease note:
This is a heavy, bulky item, so postage will be quite expensive. I'm not sure of the exact weight, but I know the amp alone weighs about 6 or 7kg. The cheapest service seems to be Royal Mail Special Delivery (next day 1pm), which costs £25.80 for items of this weight and value.
Alternatively, feel free to collect the item yourself, or I can deliver within a 10 mile radius of Birmingham, UK provided the buyer covers fuel costs.
