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.
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.
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.
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.
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
