After an extensive period of research and development focused on EL519 valves (pentodes), Tim de Paravicini has conceived an innovative triode configuration, called EMT (Enhanced Triode Mode), which combines the efficiency of the pentode with the linearity of the triode. This innovation represents a step forward, generating a true, highly linear triode from pentode valves, which are more robust, rugged and durable.

The starting point for the design of the 861 power amplifier was the legendary 859, but Tim de Paravicini aimed to demonstrate that the ETM configuration could achieve even greater results. While the 861 power amplifier could be considered to some extent a push-pull version of the 859, this simplification does not do it justice. Each output transformer weighs 5 kilograms and no feedback is used. The circuit is push-pull balanced from input to output, allowing both balanced and conventional RCA inputs.

Like the 859, the circuit is directly coupled. Valve selection is not critical, as optimum performance does not depend on matched valves or user-adjustable bias.

Output power is 32 watts per channel, with a frequency range of 20 Hz - 20,000 Hz. The mid-power bandwidth exceeds 16 Hz - 60,000 Hz, both with low overall distortion and no overall feedback. The tube complement includes 2 x ECC83, 6 x PCC88 and 4 x EL519. The weight of the amplifier is 27 kilograms.

The bass section exhibits authentic control and remarkable musicality in this power amplifier, exceeding expectations that could be derived from its power figure alone. The mids are even, clear and pleasing. In short, the sound is natural and balanced, with exceptional control and the ability to convey the emotion of the most demanding recordings, both analogue and digital.

Note: As of March 2011, this model is supplied with EL309 power tubes instead of PL519.

Technical specifications:

INPUTS:

1 x Transformer-coupled balanced XLR pair.

1 x Gold-plated RCA Phono pair

OUTPUT LEVEL: Independently adjustable for each channel.

POWER:

2 x 32 W / 4 Ω - 8 Ω - 16 Ω. Enhanced Triode Mode - Push-Pull Class A

140W bridged in mono mode

VALVE LIST:

2 x EL519 output per channel (4 in total).

2 x ECC83

6 x PCC88

DIMENSIONS: 420mm (width) x 135mm (height) x 440mm (depth)

WEIGHT: 27 Kg