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Octave V70SE vs Qualiton X200

Anyone experience comparing both amps? Currently have the Qualiton X200 on audition and really very impressed. The Octave has gotten really good reviews as well, but from what I’ve read it’s pretty neutral sounding. I’m looking for a warmer sound but still resolving which is why I chose to demo the X200 first. It hasn’t disappointed thus far. Pricing is close, Octave is a bit more but not far away from the X200. This is subjective but looks wise I prefer the X200. Reminds me of my Dads old Hifi setup. Thanks in advance.
chipcalzone
chipcalzone OP
24 posts
 
Awesome! Thanks for your help again.
riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook's avatar
riaa_award_collectors_on_facebook
981 posts
 
Octave is known to go for more of a Solid State sound like Audio Research tube amps. So if you want Tubey sound go with the Qualiton.
chipcalzone OP
24 posts
 
Thank you this is all I needed to know, I do want a more tube-y sound as I'm moving away from an SS amp.
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
990 posts
 
For Posterity:
I sat in on an Octave demo at the RMAF.  The Octave amp (can't remember which one) was the most impressive piece of gear I saw at the show.  The control of the Dynaudio speakers they had matched up with was fabulous. 
arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,681 posts
 
@chipcalzone -- if you can bump up your budget a bit more, take a look at Qualiton a50i. The 50 watts of pure class A is just magical! Based on my auditioning experience, it punches above the X200 -- as it should, given the price difference.

BTW, I demoed the Octave v70 and agree with another poster that it was a bit more on the SS side of the spectrum. But that's not necessarily a bad thing in my book. It retains all the positive attributes of holographic imaging, separation and romance of a good tube amp. You should audition the Octave as well before making your final decision. 

Just my 2 cents.
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