The SP-332 is the latest stereo power amplifier by Vincent. It features the brand's signature high power output and fantastic-sounding hybrid tube/solid-state amplification.
"The SP-332 power amplifier is a conventional solid-state design with a tube input section; one 6N15 and two 6N16s. It's no slouch in the power stakes; the company says it's good for 150W RMS per side into 8 ohms, and 250W into 4. This means it shouldn't be bothered by any loudspeaker you can buy today. To go with this, a pair of VU meters is fitted with user-selectable coloured backlighting."
At first glance, the SP-332 is instantly recognizable. With extended use, it is obvious that this is a unique amp that stands on its own in terms of sound quality and performance.
Key Features
- An enhancement of the popular SP-331
- Hybrid tube & solid state amplification
- Twin VU meters measures loudness
- 2 x 150 Watt power output 8 Ohms
- Superior power reserves.
- 4 x high-quality speaker binding posts per channel
- Powerful, deep bass performance
- Match with the Vincent SA-32 Stereo Preamplifier
User Manual (PDF, 3MB)
"The essence of this Vincent combination is refined musicality. It goes about its music-making business in a subtle yet involving way that's really quite charming on its own terms. The brand has acquired a cult following among cash-strapped audiophiles, and listening to the SA-32/SP-332 you can see – or indeed hear – why. Tonally it's pretty smooth and even, with just a touch of silk up top and warmth down below. In the midband things aren't too in your face, but there's still a good degree of detail. It conjures up a nicely capacious soundstage and has a good reserve of power allied to decent dynamic headroom. The overall impression is of an affordable pre-power that does a lot of things really rather well."
"Vincent has become something of a cult amongst cash-strapped hi-fi enthusiasts, who can't stretch to true high end but still insist on serious sound. That's precisely what this SA-32/SP-332 combo offers. After you've realised this, you can forgive its slightly whimsical ergonomics and not especially great finish – that's all by-the-by. Indeed, this is a quintessential 'affordable audiophile' combination, the sort of thing that there's always been a market for, and always will be. The hi-fi world continues to morph around us, but as that old expression goes, 'plus ça change, plus c'est la même chose…'"
Read the full Applause Award review on StereoNET
The SP-332 is an enhancement of the hugely popular SP-331, which upgrades it with higher quality inputs at the rear and dual speaker outputs. The dual speaker outputs can be switched on and off individually with the switches at the front. This allows you to easily set up two pairs of loudspeakers, perhaps in two different rooms, to listen to. There are unbalanced RCA inputs on the rear, as well as balanced XLR inputs. This makes the SP-332 compatible with a huge range of preamplifiers. Select which input you're using with the switch on the back.
The SP-332, with its hybrid design, combines the advantages of both vacuum tube and transistor amplification. Valve amplification provides the classic warm tone that audio enthusiasts crave. Combined with transistor solid-state technology, the result is a power amp that is efficient in terms of power consumption, and in sound is timelessly rich. This is a main amplifier with little competition and one that never loses control when working with even the most demanding of loads.
Inside, two 6N16 tubes working in differential push-pull form the input stage, giving the sound signal its classic warmth and richness. In the transistor output stage, there are 8 large FET transistors available for the final amplification. These generate 150 watts per channel at 8 ohms - enough power to effortlessly drive even the most critical speakers.
A power amplifier that meets modern AV needs musty be powerful yet delicate. Capable of reproducing everything from airy voice and acoustic instruments, to the strength and punch of a huge musical piece.
In the power supply, a 500W toroidal transformer provides the power necessary for constant. Elcos with a capacity of 80,000 µF "buffer" them. Transferred to the sound creates a "dry", powerful and deep bass fundament. The stabilization of the voltage is handled by a 6N15 tube.
At first glance immediately recognizable - the new VU meters on the front panel. The color backlight and the status LEDs can be switched between red, blue, green and white using a sliding switch on the back.
With its hybrid construction of valves and transistors, the SP-332 has a lot going on under the hood. However, with your system's aesthetic in mind, the exterior of this unit is sleek and minimal.
A stereo preamplifier, such as Vincent's SA-32 is a perfect match for the SP-332. Combine this unit with the CD players, tuners and other components from their product range, you can build the most diverse, perfectly harmonious sound system.
What's in the Box?
- 1x SP-332 Unit
- 1x Power Cable
- User Manual
Vincent is a German brand and manufacturer of Class-A Hi-Fi equipment. SInce 1995, Vincent has stood for continual development to 2-channel stereo in the high-end class.
| Model Number | SP-332 |
|---|---|
| RRP | 2,999.00 |
| Specs | Frequency Response: Nominal Output Power 8 Ohm: 2 x 150 Watt T.H.D.: < 0.1% Inputs: Outputs: Tubes: 2 x 6N16, 1 x 6N15 Weight: 21.1 kg |
