The Nagra VPA monoblock tube amps are the kind of gear that make audiophiles weak in the knees. This absolutely minty pair has certainly got us struggling to walk. Known for their Swiss precision and audiophile-level engineering, Nagra is a name that commands respect in the high-end audio world, and the VPA amplifiers are no exception. These sleek, powerful, and aesthetically minimalist amps are designed to deliver pure, unadulterated tube magic, all while looking like something that could’ve been pulled straight from a high-tech lab. They are the ultimate expression of tube audio engineering, offering a sublime combination of warmth, detail, and precision in a stunning, compact package. Their sound is richly musical, with a level of transparency and depth that will captivate you from the first note. For the audiophile seeking a no-compromise tube amp that looks as good as it sounds, the VPA stands as a timeless classic that will elevate any high-end audio system. If you're looking for more than one pair, drop us a line, we may be able to accommodate :)
*These will ship via private courier.
- Production
- 1998-2017
- Condition
- 9/10
- Serial No.
- 5521217 / 5521218
- Orig. MSRP
- $20,000
- Restoration
- Recapped Power supply electrolytics with Nichicon 105 degree capacitors
- Reflowed cold solder joint on one of the caps in the "HT Driver" section
- Biased
- Extensive audio testing
- Detailed
- Factory Specs
- Amplification class: Pure class-A
- Input impedance: > 100 kOhms
- Output impedance: 4, 8 or 16 ohms
- Frequency response: 20Hz to 40 kHz +0 -3dB
- Power: 50 W rms
- Signal-to-noise ratio: Typically >100dB (ASA A)
- Input circuit valves: 2 x ECC83 (input and differential), 1 x E182CC (driver)
- Power valves: 845 Triodes
- Power consumption: 250 W
- Mains power supply: 108-121 V or 216-242 V (Japan: 100 V)
- Input connectors: Balanced (XLR) or gold-plated Cinch WBT for unbalanced inputs
- Output connectors: Gold-plated WBT, for wires up to 4.2 mm,4 mm banana connectors for 6.35 mm spade
- Dimension: 335 x 115 x 375 mm (13 x 4½ x 14¾ inches) without valves
- Weight: 13.5 kg (30 lbs) each
- Liner Notes
The VPA consists of a pair of pure Class-A Push-Pull triode Monoblock tube amplifiers. Equipped with symmetrical and asymmetrical inputs, they offer a power output of 50 Watts through a pure class A output stage with no feedback. Since its introduction in 1998, the VPA has won prestigious awards and, more importantly, become a reference for a tremendous number of audiophiles all over the world.
The VPA Uses a pair of matched and individually selected 845 output tubes the VPA offers a clarity of sound second-to-none, and has become a reference to audiophiles worldwide. Constructed in machined-aluminum towers, its highly sophisticated design is based on Nagra’s simple rule: only the best components, no compromises on quality. In addition, the VPA uses fully balanced circuitry from input to output to minimize intermodulation distortion and phase shift as well as removing the need for internal feedback. As a result, the rise time, slew rate and overshoot characteristics of the Nagra VPA are uncommonly good compared to other amplifiers, and simply extraordinary for one based on vacuum tubes. These performance characteristics are constant whether the VPA is delivering minimum or full power.
Vacuum tube amplifiers seldom drive difficult speaker loads with success. Using electrostatic or low-impedance dynamic speaker designs with these amplifiers often yield unpredictable results. With the VPA, implementing a zero negative feedback design renders matching difficult speakers much easier. In addition, the VPA offers 4, 8 and 16 Ω outputs so it can accommodate even the most demanding loudspeakers.
Proprietary Nagra output transformers are used to avoid low-frequency saturation and high frequency ringing so common in other transformer-coupled output states. Bass notes are delivered with absolute authority and sound-stage scale delineation is simply superb.
- Shipping
- To ensure safe arrival, we often use private couriers. These are transporters in Sprinter Vans or pulling covered trailers often moving art and antiques across the country. Absolutely the safest way to ship short of you picking it up yourself. This piece ships to the contiguous United States for a flat rate of $250, which includes our packaging and our insurance. Of course, we'll ship anywhere in the world, just drop us a line and we'll give you an estimate – even if you're just curious.
- Stock No.
- 9060631052509
The Nagra VPA monoblock tube amps are the kind of gear that make audiophiles weak in the knees. This absolutely minty pair has certainly got us struggling to walk. Known for their Swiss precision and audiophile-level engineering, Nagra is a name that commands respect in the high-end audio world, and the VPA amplifiers are no exception. These sleek, powerful, and aesthetically minimalist amps are designed to deliver pure, unadulterated tube magic, all while looking like something that could’ve been pulled straight from a high-tech lab. They are the ultimate expression of tube audio engineering, offering a sublime combination of warmth, detail, and precision in a stunning, compact package. Their sound is richly musical, with a level of transparency and depth that will captivate you from the first note. For the audiophile seeking a no-compromise tube amp that looks as good as it sounds, the VPA stands as a timeless classic that will elevate any high-end audio system. If you're looking for more than one pair, drop us a line, we may be able to accommodate :)
*These will ship via private courier.
