Gato Audio PWR-222: Single-channel power amplifier for true dual mono

Work on the creation of the Gato Audio PWR-222 monophonic power amplifier began in 2008, simultaneously with the development of the AMP-150 integrated amplifier. Both components were based on the TwinFET technology we introduced with the AMP-150 in...

Gato Audio PWR-222
Gato Audio PWR-222

Work on the creation of the Gato Audio PWR-222 monophonic power amplifier began in 2008, simultaneously with the development of the AMP-150 integrated amplifier. Both components were based on the TwinFET technology we introduced with the AMP-150 in 2010. Seven years of optimizing each circuit design gave us the opportunity to finally present the top model – a single-channel power amplifier for true dual mono.

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The Gato Audio PWR-222 pairs perfectly with the  Gato Audio PRD-3S NPM Preamplifier/DAC , both in terms of superb stereo sound and stunning design. Convenience in everyday use is added by the ability to control the PWR-222 on and off via the Gato Audio PRD-3S NPM preamplifier using a special “Link” input (12V trigger).

The Gato Audio PWR-222 amplifier produces an impressive 250 watts into 8 ohms. This power is enough to drive any “heavy” speaker systems. Just like the power amplifier in the AMP-150, it operates on a Class A/B MOS-FET. The single chassis has a huge power supply on board with a capacitor of over 44,000 uF and low ESR, other wideband capacitors and a 700W toroidal transformer. There are also two powerful transistors (MOS-FET, 500A) and WBT NexGen connectors. The low-noise input stage and carefully optimized printed circuit board provide a signal-to-noise ratio of more than 115 dB and a frequency range of greater than 100 kHz.

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The most important task of a Hi End power amplifier is to instantly deliver maximum voltage and current to any load. But high voltage and current place special demands on the element base. A typical compromise solution is to use several amplification elements connected in parallel. Each transistor is capable of operating at high voltage, but only in a group can they provide high output current. However, difficulties arise with a weak audio signal, because even in a group with more or less identical parallel transistors, each of them has its own “voice”, different from its brothers and sisters.

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To get rid of this “discordant choir” problem, we decided to go beyond typical solutions when developing circuit design and selecting suppliers. We found some truly serious MOS-FETs designed for the most advanced welding equipment. A single MOS-FET of this type is capable of delivering 500A and 200V output, which is equivalent to a combination of about five conventional power transistors. Such specialized cells can deliver both high current and high voltage simultaneously without requiring the help of many siblings to handle the load.

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In a nutshell, Gato Audio TwinFET technology means no parallel output transistors, excellent push-pull matching, and the shortest audio signal path. All these factors ensure impeccable sound purity.

Specifications Gato Audio PWR-222

Output power (230 VAC): 1x 250 W RMS 8Ω / 1x 450 W RMS 4Ω
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz ± 0.1 dB
2 Hz – 100 kHz ± 3 dB
THD: < 0.003%
Signal ratio /noise: > 115 dB
Input impedance: 100 kΩ RCA or 100 kΩ (balanced)
Gain: 26 dB
Recommended load impedance: 4 Ω – 16 Ω
Minimum load impedance (protection): < 1.5 Ω
Switching
Balanced analog inputs: 1 gold-plated XLR (Neutrik)
Unbalanced analog inputs: 1 gold-plated RCA
Acoustic outputs: 1 pair of gold-plated WBT Nextgen terminals
Trigger, 12 V: 1 mini jack
Dimensions and power supply
Power requirements: 115 VAC / 230 VAC, 50 Hz / 60 Hz
Power consumption: Standby < 1 W, Idle < 55 W, Max. 800 W
Dimensions (WxHxD): 325 x 105 x 400 mm
Weight: 16 kg

Francis Adamiak
Author: Francis Adamiak

Francis Adamiak is a passionate audiophile and expert in high-fidelity audio equipment, with a focus on amplifiers and speakers. Drawing on years of experience and a deep love for sound quality, he shares in-depth reviews and insights on the latest audio technology.