Reluctantly listing my single-ended 33 CLASS A watts per channel Sugden Masterclass IA-4 in like new condition. Handcrafted in 2017 and a very easy 9/10.
Lovingly cared for and showing no signs of use, this amp is addictive and a real find!
This is a stunning amplifier. No crossover distortion in the output stage leads to unrivaled purity (nearly immeasurable distortion and the trace amounts are 2nd harmonic). Gains a vistavision-like soundstage and sunshine transparency from its state-of-the-art current-feedback open-loop dual-voltage transimpedence preamplifer section that also features an exceptional MM phono stage. Timeless styling and a perfect Titanium finish; feels like a real tank, excellent dial ergonomics, and those heatsinks are beautifully curved for pain-free handling.
The Sugden Masterclass IA-4 produces a huge, crystal clear sonic picture. Completely grain-free, gargantuan soundstage, blistering speed, forceful bass, endless treble extension, and a rich and kaleidoscopic midband. Used gently in my system with Devore O/93s, a known grail match, and this amp can drive anything down to medium sensitivity speakers in a medium/large room (e.g., Dynaudio Special Forty pairs beautifully). Provides more clean power in Class A than the Accuphase E-650, Pass Labs Int-25, or Luxman 590AXII. Sugden has been hand-crafting Class A integrateds in West Yorkshire since 1967 and they have their game down.
Comprehensive review and measurements:
http://soultosoleaudio.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Sugden-Masterclass-Hi-Fi-World-December-2007.pdfFROM THE MANUFACTURER (who has been handcrafting amplification since 1967)
The IA-4 is our flagship and most popular integrated amplifier. Weighing a substantial 20 kilos the IA-4 has a purposeful look and impressive build quality. Plenty of input and output facilities are on offer including a high quality phono stage. The class A power output circuit has been upgraded from the A21 series with a larger power supply and improved smoothing and output capacitors. Gold plated circuit boards, full relay switching and a precision input selector switch offer further detailing. The pre-amplifier section of the IA-4 is a bespoke design with flawless clarity and detail. The most noticeable feature is the ability to create a large performance with depth and height on any type of music.
SPECS
Facilities
Inputs Three line level, tape, MM phono, balanced
Outputs Variable pre-out, fixed out, loudspeaker out
Volume Control Remote control RC5 compatible
Tape Monitor and record off
Specifications
Line Input sensitivity 125mV
Phono Input Sensitivity 2mV (MM)
Power Output 33 Watts per channel
Frequency Response +/-1dB 14Hz-200kHz
Bandwidth 6Hz-300kHz
Signal to Noise >84dB
Gross Weight (packed) 20kgs
Dimensions 165 x 430 x 440mm (hwd)
TRANSACTION NOTES
Amp is located in New York City. Will split shipping fees and Paypal (for buyer protection, I accept PayPal only) in Continental US. Includes all original packaging, remote, and accessories.
