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When a replacement for the awe-inspiring DiaLogue One and DiaLogue Two integrated amplifiers were being penned by the PrimaLuna engineers in The Netherlands, it was already known that there was a difficult job ahead. They had to exceed the performance of two products that were some of the best reviewed in the industry. Both models had won more accolades and awards than anyone could even hope for.
What was required was a complete analysis of what customers might expect if the rule book was torn up. Push the envelope. Use the finest exotic parts. Even if they are so expensive you won't find them even in $8000 integrateds. Incorporate new circuits never before seen anywhere at any price. It was a challenge that the Dutch team took to heart.
The result has been an explosion that could never be predicted. Immediately, there was a rave review Stereophile's Sam Tellig resulting in a Stereophile Class A rating, which means "the best without regard to cost". A smokin' review from The Absolute Sound's Dick Olsher which he ended by saying "It is my current benchmark in integrated tube amplifiers." Dick Olsher knows his way around a tube amp. To be the best he has ever reviewed is an honor. The Absolute Sound followed up by awarding a 2014 Editor's Choice Award. And don't forget about Positive Feedback's Dean Seislove. You have to read his review and the associated Positive Feedback Writer's Choice Award.
Sure it looks good. But that should never be a reason to buy. Don't be fooled by overpriced name brands and lofty descriptions that cover up mediocre build quality. Any audiophile who is also an electrical engineer would see it instantly. $8000 integrated amp weighing 36lbs with one printed circuit board and no-name parts inside and a push button chip volume control or a $3399 integrated weighing 64lbs hand made with Swiss point to point wiring and chock full of the finest exotic parts, with engineered features that mean something.
Let's look at what makes it different. The more you study, the more you will agree with the experts.
The DiaLogue Premium Series also includes the same innovative circuits found in the ProLogue Premium series, that protect the amp and improve sound at every level:
As with all PrimaLuna components, the DiaLogue Premium Integrated is made by hand with the finest point-to-point wiring and quality equal to—or better than—any product you can buy at any price. All packaged in a high-gloss, hand-rubbed finish.
Freq. Response (+/- 1dB): 5Hz-69kHz (KT120), 5Hz-32kHz (KT88), 5Hz-30kHz (EL34)
Input Sensitivity: 280mV (KT120), 240mV (KT88), 230mV (EL34)
Input Impedance: 100k Ohm
Power Consumption: 255 watts
Dimensions: 15 " x 8.3 " x 14.2" (WxHxD)
Weight: 63.8 lbs
Inputs: 5 pair RCA / 1 pair HT bypass
Outputs: 4 & 8 Ohm output taps
RCA Subwoofer output
Tube Compliment: 6 - 12AU7, 4 - EL34
KT88 or KT120 tubes also available
I both this amp primarily to drive my Klipsch Forte III SE since this is the only amp that can play ultra linear and triode mode with a simple click of a button. Also, the build quality is unmatched in its price range, however in order to make this amp really “sing” you need to upgrade to KT 150 and change the preamp tubes (the two 12AU7's in the middle) if you want the best sound that this amp can deliver. I was lucky to source vintage NOS Brimar CV4034 that are by far the best sounding. I have tried Mullard & Siemens also but the Brimar gives fantastic mid’s very clear high and tight and deep bass comparing to the bright Siemens and dark Mullard’s. My Score is 4 stars as you need to fully upgrade the tubes on this unit in order to reach its full potential.
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