VTL S-400 Series II Stereo Power Amp - Black




 Part No.  S400II/B
 Description  VTL S-400 Series II Stereo Power Amp - Black
 Brand  VTL
 RRP  See Pricelist
 Image Image
 Product Notes The S-400 Reference Stereo Amplifier adapts the outstanding technical achievement of Siegfried to a single-chassis stereo design. At 400 watts per channel, the S-400 packs plenty of power for the most demanding musical passages while retaining a remarkable ability to resolve the finest details. With the same precision-regulated power supply and highest quality components as the monoblocks, users can expect a fast, articulate and unusually vivid sound that comes very near to that of Siegfried.

The luxurious looks, smart functionality and user-friendliness of Siegfried are duplicated in the S-400.
Convenience features include:

Automatic bias adjustment - the amplifier always maintains optimum bias without user tweaking.
Automatic fault sensing - front panel display shows if a tube needs to be changed or if an internal fault occurs in the amplifier.
On-board diagnostics - all operating parameters are displayed on the front panel readout.
Tetrode/triode switching - accomplished with a touch of the mode button on the front panel.
RS-232 interface - all diagnostic functions can be controlled remotely via the amplifier’s RS-232 interface, enabling easy integration with modern home theater systems. User can query the status of the amplifier and run all the diagnostics remotely by entering commands on a PC via the Hyperterminal window.
While the technical facility of the S-400 makes it virtually foolproof, ultimately, it is the surprising sound that will make you a believer. Like Siegfried, the S-400 reveals the inner details and overtones of music, which results in a much more lifelike experience. Live music’s harmonic complexity and richness is fully revealed without a trace of harshness or electronic edginess.

Most listeners have traditionally agreed that the various types of amplifiers available—tube, solid state, single-ended triode, push-pull—each possess characteristic strengths and weaknesses. The advanced engineering of the S-400 succeeds in extracting the best qualities of each of these designs into one unit. The immense power reserves provide a foundation for music on the level of the best solid state amplifiers; the warmth, agility, and rich timbral presentation of the midrange recalls the best of single-ended triode designs, yet the S-400 remains completely unfazed during dynamic, complex passages like a top-quality push-pull. To be able to get this kind of astonishing performance—so close to Siegfried at only half the cost-- makes this amplifier a truly great value. The S-400 will redefine what you thought possible in a stereo amplifier.

Stereophile Magazine said:
The Critics Have Spoken: The S-400 is a "Stunning Achievement"
That is how reviewer Brian Damkroger summed up the S-400 Reference Amplifier. He noted how the S-400’s incredible neutrality, clarity and transparency set it apart from other amplifiers, remarking that it came closer to fulfilling the promise of recorded and reproduced performances than I’d ever heard before. While the many technical and diagnostic features of the S-400 duly impressed Damkroger, it was the sonic magic that provoked his most ardent sentiments.
Ultimately, he recommends that those seeking a technological tour de force, a sonic home run, and a benchmark in tube amplifier design, should go find an S-400, listen to it, and prepare to own it. Contact us and we’ll point you to a showroom where you can experience it for yourself.



Feature Summary:

TUBE MANAGEMENT
Fully logic-controlled automatic tube biasing: Re-biases between music passages, to keep tubes in optimal operating condition
Tube life: Front panel display shows hours of operation of the tubes—no more guesswork on when to change tubes
Switchable on-the-fly between tetrode and triode modes with built-in circuit protection
Logic-controlled soft-start sequence - extends tube life

SMART FAULT-SENSING:
Front panel fault display alerts user if any of the following conditions are sensed:
inadequate line voltage
power surge
any tube is operating out of its parameters
Automatic shutdown after fault is sensed

USER DIAGNOSTICS:
automated fuse testing
line voltage display
amplifier operating time (since new)
serial port for remote diagnostics

ELECTRONICS
Precision regulated power supplies: For consistently musical performance and deep bass
Balanced input stage: For dynamic sound and superior noise rejection
Fully remote controllable and RS-232 Interface: For integration with centrally controlled systems
Phase switch