| For years we have offered (and will continue to offer) world class power amplifiers
based upon the outstanding transformers found in Dynaco ST-70 and MK-3 power amplifiers.
Using our constant current cascade driver circuitry they have
attained the recognition as equal or better than the best available.
As good as the Dynaco transformers are (easily equaling the performance
of the most prestigious tube amplifiers available), we knew that they
were not
perfect. Driven by this constant need to improve, we began a quest to identify a
completely transparent transformer. Unfortunately, after an exhaustive
audible evaluation
of all currently available transformers, we were forced to conclude that in one way or
another, a critical flaw would surface to disqualify each contender. We then asked Mike LaFever of Magnequest, to
work with us to co-develop a transformer to our specifications. Working with Mike and
his unparalleled knowledge and skills, we developed the most
neutral transformer we have ever heard. It simply disappears equaling
the performance of OTL but without the complexity and power requirement
disadvantages of OTL topologies. By comparison, other transformers sound
heavy and muffled.
After building the first prototype, it's clarity allowed us to hear
something that beforehand went completely unnoticed. Careful scrutiny
revealed that high frequency artifacts from
the AC mains were penetrating into the audio circuitry. This was true
even with our multi level regulator power supply design. Mike worked with us
to develop a choke that completely eliminated all forms of AC line induced
noise. The result was the removal of another layer of haze that delivers a
combination of smoothness and articulation that has to be heard to be
appreciated. Dynamics that just seemed to go forever - this couldn't be
a 100 Watt amplifier. It's hard to compare the MQ-100 with other amplifiers
- it simply redefines a new standard of musicality.
In the lab the amp was a complete surprise - distortion levels so low that we thought there was
a problem with our instruments. Square waves that were perfectly square, to full power
with absolutely no ringing. Each parameter we measured was outstanding. This
is an amp that measures as well as it sounds.
You may purchase the board set for the MQ-100 blank, as a kit (board &
parts) or fully assembled. The Magnequest transformer, enclosure/hardware
set, and output tube set have been priced individually for those who may
wish to use alternate transformers, enclosures, or tube suppliers. Finally,
we offer the full kit with all parts necessary to construct the MQ-100's.
For those purchasing the blank board set, we have
available the MQ-100 Semi-Pac that contains all of the semiconductors
specified for the project. Standard and premium (high grade regulator
op-amps) Semi-Pacs are available.
ORDERING INFORMATION
(per PAIR)
Blank PC Board Set : P/N PWB-MQ-100 = $350 Semi-Pac
Standard : P/N SEMI-MQ-100 = $275 Semi-Pac Premium : P/N
PSEMI-MQ-100 = $425
Kit, PC Board Set: P/N KIT-MQ-100 = $1150 Assembled PC Board
Set : P/N ASM-MQ-100 = $1500 CAE-Magnequest Transformer Set
(adder): P/N XFMR-MQ-100 = + $1625 Output Tube Set (adder): P/N
OTS-MQ-100 = + $300 Full Kit (Assembled Board Set, MQ Transformers, Tubes, Hardware
- Does Not Include Chassis): P/N FKIT-MQ-100 = $3800 |
