Perfectly matching the product launch of the Performer s1200, the first review is already online. Hifistatement Netmagazine took a really close look at our new stereo power amplifier and is impressed.
You can find the complete review (in German) online – here we provide an English summary. Have fun reading!
“No matter how much you are willing to invest for a stereo power amplifier, don’t make a decision before you have heard the SPL s1200!”
Individual design
“Each s1200 comes with three decorative panels adhere with the help of a strong neodymium magnet.: one in black, one in silver and one in red. You can also choose between these three colors for the front panel. So there certainly is a combination to suit everyone’s taste.”
In practice:
“As soon as they arrived in the listening room, I plugged in the s1200. Although the SPL – apart from burning in before the final inspection – had not yet been able to collect any operating hours, it cut an exceptionally fine figure. Despite its immense power, it acted incredibly fast and fine – but that was no different with the even more powerful monos back then: SPL’s power plants let the music flow smoothly. At the beginning of the burn-in phase, I refrained from a meaningful comparison with several back-and-forth switches between the SPLs and my hybrid power amplifier. Nevertheless, it was immediately clear that the two stereo power amplifiers are on a similar level despite the not inconsiderable price differences.”
“The SPL just fits perfectly into the existing chain. Speaking of the chain, after the warm-up period, I’ll try out how the s1200 responds to a proprietary preamp reacts. How convenient that the Phonitor x can also be used as a preamp.”
120V technology:
“SPL’s unique 120V technology, which was originally developed for studio equipment and goes by the name ‘Voltair’ for components in the ‘Professional Fidelty line,’ is something that my colleagues and I have brought to your attention several times now.”
“Voltair provides more headroom, greater dynamic range, less noise and distortion and an enormously detailed sound image without listening fatigue.”
Sound:
“Now, before I bother with any more test tracks, I’d rather be happy about the fact that the s1200 can easily hold its own even in comparison with several times more expensive amplifiers and enjoy a few songs from Marc Johnson’s solo bass album Overpass: not least because of the SPL pure joy!”
Conclusion:
“The two m1000s were already absolutely convincing with a tremendously good price/sound ratio. And in this matter, the s1200 is even better!
