When Boulder Amplifiers introduces a new piece of gear, it's hard not to pay attention. Their latest release, the Boulder 1162 stereo power amplifier, seems set to make waves in the high-end audio scene.
Building upon the foundation laid by the 1161, the 1162 delivers a robust 300 watts per channel into 8 ohms. It's nestled within Boulder's esteemed 1100 series, alongside the 1151 mono power amplifier, the 1108 phono amplifier, and the 1110 preamplifier. Drawing from 40 years of engineering expertise, Boulder has meticulously refined every circuit and optimized the mechanical design to achieve exceptional performance.
The bias circuit operates in Class A, ensuring minimal distortion and a pure signal path. The amplifier's front panel is more than just a sleek facade; it's machined to reflect the topography of Flagstaff Mountain near Boulder, Colorado, adding a touch of artistry to its robust construction.
A standout feature is the newly developed protection circuitry. It safeguards the output section by shutting it down swiftly in the event of a short circuit or system fault, without compromising peak power capabilities. For those who prefer bi-wiring their speakers, the 1162 comes equipped with four pairs of high-current speaker terminals, making connections straightforward.
Under the hood, dual power transformers with DC filtering are housed in a welded steel enclosure, ensuring completely silent operation. This meticulous attention to the power supply means the 1162 delivers clean, uninterrupted power to the system. A 32 Amp IEC front-terminated power cable is included, optimizing the safe transfer of power to the amplifier.
Technical specifications reveal a frequency range stretching from an ultra-low 0.015 Hz up to 150 kHz at a -3 dB level. Beyond its rated 300 watts per channel at 8 ohms, the 1162 boasts an impressive power reserve, capable of delivering up to 1,000 watts at 2 ohms. Weighing over 61 kilograms, it's a substantial piece of equipment that promises both physical heft and sonic authority.
While details on pricing and availability are still forthcoming, the anticipation surrounding the 1162 is palpable. Boulder Amplifiers hints that big things indeed come in manageable packages, and this new stereo power amplifier seems poised to impress.