Vincent Audio, a designer and manufacturer of audiophile-grade stereo and multichannel components, has announced the SV-228, a hybrid integrated amplifier that is the latest in a series of PowerLine models.

The SV-228 builds on its predecessors, succeeding the popular SV-227MK, with upgrades inside and out including a Main input that makes it easy to use the component as a power amplifier in conjunction with an AV preamp/processor. Also, the SV-228 incorporates a v.5.0 Bluetooth input for wireless streaming, maximizing the sonic attributes of audio sourced from portable devices.

Aesthetically, the SV-228 has a VU meter embedded in the front panel, and colored lighting that is adjustable via a rear-panel control. The two-channel meter is controlled by a separate CPU, accurately displaying real-time power output.

The new integrated amplifier features Vincent Audio’s hybrid design, offering rich, natural-sounding audio associated with vacuum tubes while providing the power and control of solid-state electronics. The SV-228 is up to date with a DAC that handles the latest high-resolution streaming formats, including WAV, FLAC, APE, LPCM and more, the company adds.

Delivering 100 watts per channel at 8 ohms, 180 wpc @ 4 ohms, the SV-228 is powerful enough to drive two pairs of speakers without distorting, the company states. Two amplifier sections – preamplifier and power amplifier – are matched for maximum transparency. However, the listener can bypass the pre-amp/amp connection by removing external jumpers, allowing for an external digital signal processor (DSP) for room correction.

The input selection includes three analog and two digital, with the latter connecting to a Burr-Brown PCM 5102 DAC designed to bring out the best in CDs as well as WAV, FLAC, APE, LPCM, MP3, AAC, AC3, and WMA files.