At online hifi magazine Stereonet you’ll find a review about our power amplifier SPL Performer s900. Here we provide you with a short summary.
“Up for review here is SPL’s newest power amplifier, the Performer s900.”
“Its front panel is clean in appearance, with only three LEDs to identify power on, a temperature alert and protection circuit engagement. Such simplicity continues around the back, with an on/off switch, switched RCA phono and balanced XLR audio inputs, and one input trim selector per channel for attenuation. Two pairs of solid speaker binding posts and an external trigger input are also fitted.”
“The amplifier is offered with a choice of silver, black or red fascias, and is very well finished. It measures 278x114x345mm (WxHxD) and weighs almost 15kg; much of this is down to the seriously meaty toroidal transformer and solid chassis.”
“The s900 was developed from the existing s800 power amp, with a redesign of internal layout and spacing and technology from the top-of-the-line s1200 power amplifier. Its VOLTAiR system implements high voltage circuit rails to produce a sound with ‘unlimited space for the music to breathe in’.”
Sound:
“The s900 is one of the most enjoyable power amps that I have heard to date, with clarity, power and authority aplenty.”
“Music flows naturally from this amplifier, rather than randomly erupting. The listener is cocooned within a world of nuance and texture, yet there are great dynamics and control too.”
“Indeed, the SPL’s greatest attribute is its combination of smoothness, speed and punch. Treble has space and air aplenty, which in turn gives vocals room to breathe without a hint of forwardness. Down in the bass, and things are potent yet controlled; this power amp isn’t afraid of driving loudspeakers to high volumes.”
“Hard drum hits or double bass plucks are no problem whatsoever, even when it is cranked up really high. The result is an easy and unconstrained sound with no obvious tonal peaks or troughs. The midrange is no different, being fast, detailed, layered and subtle.”
“Sonically it’s extremely impressive across the board, while never sounding like an ‘in-your-face’ type of product. It’s an amplifier to sit back and listen to, absorbing all the detail, power and energy of a musical performance. As such, this highly engaging design is an essential audition if you’re in the market for an ‘affordable high end’ powerhouse.”
Conclusion:
“The SPL Performer s900 power amplifier made a very positive impact on this reviewer. The technology is well thought out, it is engineered like a tank and makes a very nice noise. Its compact chassis may not be the norm, but is easy to fit on an equipment rack and simple to use.”
