Nagra VPA

Nagra VPA tube 845 power amplifier valve

Manufactured from 1998 to 2017

 

Pure Class-A Push-Pull triode Monoblock amplifiers
The VPA consists of a pair of mono block vacuum tube power 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.

Nagra VPA Valve tube power amplifier 845 classic myth pair transformer

Pure Class A Push-Pull Triode Monoblocks

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.

Nagra VPA Valve tube power amplifier 845 classic myth pair transformer side

Difficult Speaker Loads and Zero Negative feedback

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.

Nagra VPA Valve tube power amplifier 845 classic myth pair transformer inside open

Fast, Deep and Low with Nagra Output Transformers

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.

Nagra VPA Valve tube power amplifier 845 classic myth pair transformer front

Choice of 845 Tubes

The 845 tubes go through a 24 hour burn-in and numerous measurements before computer-assisted matching by pairs.

Technical specification

ELECTRONICS

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)

 

GENERAL

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
Weight: 13.5 kg (30 lbs) each
Dimension: 335 x 115 x 375 mm (13 x 4½ x 14¾ inches) without valves

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