I have had YBA in my system for last 20+ years, got them because they have sound of tube with benefits of SS. Remember that older units were made in France, Refinement and Passion series are made in China. Prof. Andre has, to my knowledge, distanced himself from Chinese company, but not sure. So, if you find unit made in France, grab it. Rarely seen on AGon. Best part is, they are incredibly efficient. After playing for hours, the heat sinks barely get lukewarm. They need to be left on all the time for heat stability and consume only 6 watts in idle state. The Signature series is interesting in that, each component is hand tested by the professor, auditioned and signed by him.
YBA PRODUCTS
I just purchased their PASSION 650 stereo amp. Some of the sweetest solid-state Watts I have heard; this is after letting go of my BEL CANTO 40 SET AMP. Given how wonderful YBA products are I am wondering why I’ve heard of them only once or twice in the last dozen years or so, and I think both times have been me. Anyone out there have first hand listening experience with YBA?
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Andre designed the Audio Refinement series but had it manufactured in China to save money. https://www.stereophile.com/integratedamps/499ar/index.html |
The older passion that I own was their top of line made in France back in the late 90's to early 2000's. I believe when he sourced out the newer series but kept the Passion name only the Signature series is now made in France. Not sure when that move was made (but think it is available on-line) but thought he is still keeping an eye on the complete line not just the signature that he oversees. |
Hey guys! As the US Distributor of YBA, a point of clarification... Although Yves-Bernard Andre continues as part of the ownership team and the Chief Designer for Signature, Passion & Genesis series, there is no manufacturing in France of YBA products. To YBA's credit, they do not attempt to hide or obscure the manufacturing location. Jim Ricketts/tmh audio |
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