Sophia Electric 91-01 and 91-5 300B

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,

The top of line Sophia Electric 91-05 300B amplifier is $10K.

I have had several Sophia's with a range of speakers -- most recently Avantgarde Trios. They sound good, solid middle of the pack on their best day. The parts are cheap; the units are not well-constructed; their tubes are low quality but sound great when they work.

You should read the separate recent thread on Sophia quality. Even Jeff Day's article makes a passong comment about his order from Sophia being incomplete.

I advise you to go elsewhere.

91-01 is of Sophia Electric's modest priced level one amplifier. For those with Trio speakers should consider to go for Level Five Sophia Electric amplifiers or custom order. If 91-01 is of great sound, then 91-05 should have been in another league.

You simply can't expect a $4500 new pair of mono-block come with all Black Gate caps. Voicing is an art, spending money within a budget is also an art. Only fool would spend money without any sonic improvement.

I view the magical sound from Sophia Electric 91-01 as a great achievement. Some of the mega dollar 300B amplifiers from well known brands are not impressive sonically even though all expensive parts loaded.

Buyers and users should ask yourself if the sound is more important or the parts brand is more important in the end. The parts Sophia Electric used for 91-01 are above computer grade with mostly from brands like Sophia Electric CDE, Rubycon, allen bradley, Dale, Western Electric, etc.

91-01 also can run cool in long hours. As long as you do not push it beyond 8w amplifier can do, it should last for many years to come.