Sophia Electric 91-01 and 91-5 300B

Hello Pani, just ordered & received my 91-01. I still have only around 50 hrs on them & can't comment much on the final expected sound. I use them with Canterbury's which are 96db. No issues with the volume at all & they sound quite adequate. Pls. note I don't listen very loud mostly around 80 - 90 db in 30 x 16 ft room. So far in comparison to other 300B amps I have heard the Sophia' s sound quite dynamic with authoritative bass control. I am really hoping they will be magical as Jeff Day has commented; I can let you know in a few weeks time when they are fully run in. So far they sound very positive & heading in the direction I am hoping.

About the build quality - they feel extremely well put together. I peeked under the hood very neat & solid looking as most other high end equipment I have owned. Give Richard or Sue a call & I am sure they will be able to discuss the quality of the parts used.

I also own a Mcintosh MC275 which I have tried on the Canterburys. While it sounds great (amazing amp!) it's SET 300B for me all the way! I think Tannoys have great synergy with 300B. I am sure Jeff would not stake his reputation on this relatively cheap amps compared to the Shindos, Lebens & other many many amps he has reviewed :-) Best of luck in your search.

Dilly,
I haven't had the opportunity to hear the Sophia amps but your comment about Jeff Day makes sense. What good for him to give false praise to an undeserving component? He's built a very good reputation over the years, why taint it now? Dilly I'm glad the 300b SET is off to a good start with your Tannoys, I really love a good 300b amplifier . When designed and built to a high standard they make beautiful and natural music. I hope it meets your full expectations.
Regards,

Dilly, thanks for that input. Which preamp are you using with the Sophia amps ? Did you consider their higher models, 91-03 and 91-05 ?

Charles1dad, thanks. Jeff's review was a high motivator for me to try the amps. I just could not pass over knowing Jeff is a big Tannoy fan & raving about a 300B amp on the WMR! He also values musicality very high which is my top most consideration as well. So far the amps are breaking in very well - Sue mentioned that I should have at least 100 hrs in them to hear the full potential. In my experience anything with transformers take over 300 hrs to put out the last bit. Long wait & I can't wait to hear them fully run in.

Pani, I am using a Supratek Chardonnay as my pre. I did inquire about the higher Sophia models but I believe there are significant price differences. If I remember correct 91-05 will be around 20K. Given the difference is 3/4 more my view would be to try the basic first & you can always upgrade later if this is the route you decide.

Dilly,
I agree concerning components with transformers, especially amplifiers, they need ample time to burn in. I'm certain your Sophia will continue to improve as the hours accumulate. It will really begin to sing.
Regards,