Musical Fidelity Announces the Nu-Vista 600.2 Integrated Amplifier
There's something undeniably thrilling about the anticipation of a new piece of high-end audio gear. That feeling has been buzzing in the air since Musical Fidelity announced the release of their latest integrated amplifier, the Nu-Vista 600.2. It's a name that resonates with audiophiles who appreciate the fusion of classic tube warmth with modern solid-state power.
The Nu-Vista 600.2 is an all-analog, dual-mono integrated amplifier that promises to deliver a powerful and transparent sound. With 160W per channel into 8Ω and a hefty 300W into 4Ω, this amp is designed to drive even the most demanding speakers with ease. It's also stable down to 2Ω, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of speaker setups.
A key feature of the Nu-Vista 600.2 is its utilization of nuvistor tubes in a Class A buffer stage. These 6S51N nuvistors are known for their near-extinct rarity and their ability to impart that sought-after tube warmth without the typical drawbacks of larger vacuum tubes. Placed in a discrete Class A amplifier buffer, they contribute to the amp's sweet and musical tonality.
Musical Fidelity didn't hold back on the technical refinements:
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Redesigned Layout: The preamp, nuvistor, and input circuits have been relocated to a self-screening tray at the top of the unit. This isolation from the power amp and power supplies reduces noise and distortion.
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Dual Mono Design: The preamplifier circuits and power supplies are now fully dual mono, enhancing channel separation and stereo imaging.
- Titan Heritage Power Amplification: Adopting the design philosophy from their acclaimed TITAN series, each output transistor has its own high-current bulk supply capacitor. This reduces supply impedance and improves transient response, resulting in a more dynamic sound.
- Laser-Trimmed Volume Control: Provides precise channel matching with a gain error of just +/- 0.5dB, even at lower listening levels.
- Improved Input Switching: The former input switching ICs have been replaced with high-quality relays, enhancing separation and dynamics.
Connectivity is robust, featuring:
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Inputs: Two balanced XLR inputs and four RCA inputs cater to various source components.
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Outputs: Balanced XLR and RCA pre-outs allow for flexibility in system expansion or integration with other components.
The amplifier's build quality is as impressive as its specs. The massive aluminum chassis not only provides a luxurious aesthetic but also serves practical purposes:
- Vibration Dampening: The rigid construction minimizes the impact of external vibrations on the internal circuitry.
- Electromagnetic Shielding: Acting as a Faraday cage, it protects sensitive components from electromagnetic interference while containing any emissions from the amplifier itself.
The front panel features a color display with optional VU meters, adding a touch of classic flair. The display is dimmable, allowing users to tailor the visual experience to their preference.
Available in silver or black, the Nu-Vista 600.2 carries a price tag of €8,990. It's clear that Musical Fidelity has poured a great deal of passion and engineering prowess into this amplifier, striving to meet the high expectations of discerning music lovers who value fidelity and luxurious craftsmanship.
For those who have been following Musical Fidelity's journey, the Nu-Vista 600.2 seems to be a worthy addition to their lineup—balancing power, nuance, and meticulous design. It embodies the company's commitment to pure analog amplification without the distractions of digital or streaming functionalities, focusing solely on delivering the highest quality audio reproduction.
As always, the true test of any amplifier is in the listening, but on paper, the Nu-Vista 600.2 appears to be a compelling option for those seeking an integrated amplifier that doesn't compromise on performance or aesthetics.
Further Information:
- Manufacturer: Musical Fidelity
- UK Availability: Henley Audio
- Price: £7,999.00 (SRP)
