Electrocompaniet AW250-R is a two-channel power amplifier with an uncompromising design and is capable of confidently handling any acoustic systems. The amplifier’s power supply unit contains huge custom-made toroidal transformers made using proprietary FTT technology. The entire Electrocompaniet AW250-R circuit is made according to the dual mono principle, from discrete audiophile-grade components. The voltage filter of each channel uses six parallel-connected capacitors of significant total capacity, which have a reduced charge/discharge time and are capable of quickly delivering energy to the load.
Extra-current output transistors (elements of each arm of the push-pull circuit are mounted on separate heat sinks, which significantly improves the overall thermal stability of the circuit) ensure that the amplifier remains operational when the load resistance is reduced to 1 Ohm. Due to special circuitry, the amplifier has zero intermodulation transient distortions. The output power of the AW250-R will be 2 x 1100 W, while with a load impedance of 8 Ohms, the device develops 2 x 250 W. The maximum peak output current of the AW250-R exceeds 100 Amperes.
The amplifier is equipped with balanced inputs and outputs, while the latter are intended for implementing a bi-amplifier connection circuit for acoustics using another similar power amplifier. The device has double output screw terminals, making it very convenient to connect the speakers via bi-wiring. Electrocompaniet AW250-R can also operate as a monoblock in bridge connection, in which case its output power will increase fourfold.
The amplifier has a signature design with a massive front panel, on which there is a large gold-plated power button and a gold logo, as well as very high quality workmanship. Electrocompaniet AW250-R can be successfully used in the highest quality stereo systems, as well as in a High-End home theater, if it is necessary to provide high-quality sound in large rooms.
It is very pleasant to contemplate Electrocompaniet equipment. There are many supporters of this design in the world. The discreet and therefore expensive-looking gloss of glass, gold-anodized controls and inscriptions made in the same color on a deep black background, indication of a noble deep blue color without excesses are effectively and unobtrusively combined. But listening to this pair is still even more pleasant and exciting. In the first seconds of sound, it became clear that in the editorial system as guests (one can say – “Varangian guests”) – a pair of unusually musical components.
All subsequent tests and musical samples confirmed the first impression. When the music demanded it, the Electrocompaniet components demonstrated an unusually delicate – hidden and even almost intimate touch. In another situation, the pair instantly ignited the space with explosive acoustic energy. In all cases, there was not a hint of languor, proximity to the power ceiling or fogging of sound structures. The control of the amplifiers – first of all, of course, the AW250R – of the lower register left no room for criticism. The bass in the Norwegians’ opinion can be characterized as fast, impulsive, timbrally clear and articulated.
Electrocompaniet AW250-R Specifications
Output impedance (20 Hz – 20 kHz) < 0.008 ohms
Input impedance (unbalanced RCA input) 220 kohms
Input impedance (balanced XLR input) 110 kohms
Input sensitivity for rated power 1 W
Maximum peak current > 100 A
THD (1 kHz, half power, 8 ohms load) < 0.001 %
THD (1 kHz / – 1 dB / 8 ohms) < 0.001 %
Noise (measured with shorted inputs) 90 mV (400 Hz – 30 kHz); 100 mV (10 Hz – 30 kHz)
Nominal output power: 8 Ohm 2 x 250 W, 4 Ohm 2 x 380 W, 2 Ohm 2 x 625 W, 1 Ohm 2 x 1100 W
Power consumption (no load or signal) 230 W
Dimensions (W x D x H) 483 x 450 x 210 mm
Weight 39 kg
