VTL S-400 Reference Series

PRICE $47,500.00

The newest addition to our Reference line, 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.

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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 theatre 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.

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

Vacuum Tube Complement (both channels) 2 x 12AT7, 2 x 6350, 12 x 6550C

Maximum Output @ Less than 3% distortion Into 4 Ohms Tetrode 400W, Triode 200W
Into 8 Ohms Tetrode 300W, Triode 150W

Small Signal frequency response +0 -3 dB (10Hz -125 KHz)

Inputs Balanced XLR (2), Single ended RCA (2)

Output 5-way Binding Post (2 pairs)

Class of output operation AB1

Optimal Load Setting 5 ohms

Input Sensitivity for Full Output 2.2 Volt

Input Impedance 57K ohms

Balanced Input Common Mode Rejection Ratio 60 dB

Power Consumption 480 Watts @ idle, 2500 Watts @ full power

Zero Signal Noise > 100 dB (all frequencies)

Secondary DC Volt Fuse
Ratings Plate 2.5A Fast 600V
Screen 3/4A Fast 600V

AC Fuse ratings Logic: 0.4 Amp Slo Blo 120V, 220V, 240V
B+: 120V 20 Amp Slo Blo, 240V 10 Amp Slo Blo

Input: 120V 2 Amp Slo Blo, 240V 1 Amp Slo Blo

Filament: 120V 2 Amp Slo Blo, 240V 1 Amp Slo Blo

Dimensions W x D x H 11.5 x 24 x 24 inches (29 x 61 x 61 cm)

Weight
Shipping Weight
Net: 220 lbs/100 kg
330 lbs/159 Kg, packed in crate.

Crate Dimensions: 34 x 20 x 40 inches