I am selling a pair of very limited production run of the Monarchy Audio SM-70. They are True Balanced amplifier with Zero Feedback. They each run in pure class-A operation of (25watts x 2) or (75watts x 1). But that’s not all; let me tell you why this particular amplifier is better then the others…
-They are the 2nd rendition of the original amplifier as it has a 3/4" thick faceplate(same as the pro edition) for better heat dissipation as compared to the thin 1/2" on the first batch.
-The 2nd rendition also has a upgraded power transformer with an improved rail voltage of +/- 30V as compared to the +/- 26V on the original models. This gives the monoblock operation of 10 extra watts of Class A power each.
-The Monarchy Audio SM-70, 2nd rendition, also incorporates ZERO FEEDBACK technology which is only seen in luxurious amplifier design. The lack of global feedback allows it to deliver a substantial amount of low-order harmonics that allow this amp to have a signature tonal qualities of fine tube amplifiers. Don't forget that the SM-70 is also a true balanced design which takes part in it's superb sound quality and lower noise floor.
-So why buy my 2nd rendition SM-70 over the newer SM-70 Pro? The Pro version with all its extra components only allows it to have a bit more headroom in dynamics. The downside of the Pro is that it become to sound a lot like an actual solid state amplifier. Audiomusings mentioned that the original SM-70 sounds sweeter and has a "harmonic rightness that is very appealing." Their review also indicates the original SM-70's midrange tonality provided a natural rendering of vocals and guitars. So why pay more for something that does not even sound as good?
- If that isn't enough, Audioexpress declared that the SM-70 has a richer harmonic palate and more of a euphonic sound when compared to Monarchy Audio's more expensive SE-100. Hong Kong reviews raved the SM-70 and compared favorably to the Pass Labs X-series amplifier.
-As you can see, these are the primary reasons why I chose the SM-70 2nd rendition over the 1st rendition and the Pro version. Took a lot of research, but it was well worth it. I have been using them for several years(purchased around 2001-2002) and they were never pushed hard and always used in monoblock configuration.
-As you can tell from my pictures they are currently driving Infinity Kappa 600s, which are very hard to drive as they drop to 4ohms quite rapidly due to its high excursion 10" woofer. The SM-70's are able to drive the high and midrange with smooth, detailed sound while it provided powerful gripping bass from the woofer. All with NO hint of distortion. They were also used to drive my Onix Stata Mini which were 86dB efficient with power hungry planar tweeter and midrange; and a atohm woofer. Again, I did not hear any sort of strain in my large room. Also used to power my NHT M6, Wharfedale bookshelves, Monitor Audio Silvers/Bronze, Onix Ref 1, and Rocket RS250.
-These were basically my reference amplifier and were used as true testing point for all my speakers. So why am I selling it? EASY, I am selling because I am upgrading to either the SE-160 or the SE-250 monoblocks which will run me anywhere from 2-3K/pr in the used market. Thats how much I love Monarchy Audio!
-My price is 399.00 + 35.00 s/h each due to its heavy weight and double boxing (also because UPS/Fedex keep raising their price locally in their stores) If you are using paypal, please add an extra 2.9% to the total. Please, no checks. The price is very reasonable as I paid around $1500.00 for the pair.
-If you buy both, the price is a bit more negotiable. Please do not lowball me as I am in no hurry to sell as this a very rare version of the amp. Most of the SM-70s on audiogon are either the first batch or the Pro edition.
-Reference:
http://www.monarchyaudio.com/planet.htmhttp://monarchyaudio.com/planet2.htmhttp://www.monarchyaudio.com/reviews_%20PDF/ER_SM70.pdfhttp://www.monarchyaudio.com/sm70hifiplus.JPGhttp://www.soundstage.com/revequip/monarchy_sm70.htmhttp://monarchyaudio.com/sm70_ams.htmlhttp://www.audioxpress.com/reviews/media/AE500GG.pdfhttp://monarchyaudio.com/CR0.html -GET THIS PAIR NOW as this may be the one and only time you can buy such a limited production amplifier from Monarchy Audio. Where else can you find pair of amps that runs at over 75watts of pure Class A power at such a low price. Start your audiophile nirvana NOW!
Pictures:
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?ampstran&1210023634email me at kinnithy@yahoo.com
