At LowBeats you can find a review of the brand new Performer s1200. The online magazine put the stereo power amplifier through its paces and subsequently awarded it with the rating “outstanding”.
Here, you can read about how it came to this.
Find the complete review (in German) online at LowBeats and an English summary here on our blog.
“Almost exactly two years ago, we reviewed the m1000 monoblocks from studio pros SPL. Since then, the impressive power amplifiers have remained in the editorial office. As an unshakable neutral and bear reference, as absolutely neutral referees, the monos were consulted for all important decisions in terms of sound. Now, SPL has developed a stereo power amplifier based on these monos: the SPL s1200.”
Concept:
“The entire voltage amplification takes place in stage one; stage two handles the amplification of the power. The advantage of this concept: Because both amplification circuits are largely separated from each other, the feared back electro-motive force of the loudspeakers (these are voltages induced by membrane reverberations of the loudspeakers) are also no problem for the SPL Performer s1200.”
“It goes without saying that the new s1200 also uses the SPL-typical VOLTAIR technology.”
“The fact that SPL originates from the pro audio domain becomes obvious at the latest when you look at the connecting possibilities of the Performer s1200. You can choose between balanced XLR or unbalanced RCA connection. This is a real advantage.”
“By the way: all SPL components are carefully assembled by hand in Niederkrüchten, Germany, where the company is based. This means that SPL also performs their quality control by themself. This is a significant quality criterion.”
Sound:
“If you wanted to describe the sound character of the SPL components, you would have a hard time. Because they are tremendously ‘neutral’.”
“Nothing stands out, everything is natural in a certain way and enormously clean. Voices always sound full and powerful.”
“It was really fantastic, with how much more power and sparkling dynamics the s1200 blew these gritty brass sections into the room and at the same time opened up the room considerably further back and up.”
Conclusion:
“This power amplifier is not only as strong as an ox and has convincing sonic merits: it also comes across as thoroughly sympathetic. This is due to the excellent manufacturing, the inventive design and the practical connection possibilities.”
