Κώστας Φ.
Truth hurts. Here's a teddy bear.
- Μηνύματα
- 8.978
- Reaction score
- 895
Retail: $11,500
"The 865 is Boulder's first-ever integrated amplifier and based on their lower rung preamplifier and power amplifier, the 810 and 860 respectively.
...
Boulder Amplifiers is a firm believer in balanced operation and uncompromising when it comes to this topology, with the 865 accordingly sporting a fully balanced, differential, three-stage input circuit "...resulting in ultra-low distortion and noise". So it follows that the 865 incorporates four balanced inputs and one auxiliary output -- fixed or variable and switchable for a subwoofer, recording device or secondary amplifier -- all configured within a centrally placed cluster. Not a single-ended connection in sight.
...
Power output is a healthy 150 watts continuous into 8Ω or 4Ω with a THD of 0.0035% from 20Hz to 2kHz and 0.018% at 20kHz. Frequency response is 20Hz to 20kHz +0.00dB and -0.07dB. Input impedance is specified at 100Kohm and voltage gain is 46dB. Volume control range is 100dB adjustable in 200 steps of 0.5dB via the unit's main or remote control.
...
Finale
How can I comfortably suggest that a $11.5K audio component represents good value? Well, when you take into account the fanatical build quality and engineering, the comprehensive feature list and the conveniences of an all-in-one package as opposed to the cost of a separate preamp/amp combo and the interconnecting cables, you might start to realise the relative value offered by the 865. What's more, sonically the solid-state Boulder 865 integrated amplifier is a clean, crisp and tight performer that never strays into sterility. It delivers an image that's scarily real in terms of spatial accuracy and life-like presence and controls your speakers with an iron fist in a silver/grey glove. If only all chain gangs were this easy to work in..."
Full Review: 6moons.com
