AUDION STERLING STEREO ANNIVERSARY

The Audion Sterling Stereo Anniversary integrated amplifier is a hard-wired, point-to-point model built using higher-grade components and larger Audion-wound output transformers (EI96), all hand-soldered. This stereo amplifier, based on the EL34 pentode, uses a small amount of feedback in its design. The chassis is made of black powder-coated aluminum, as is the transformer cover. The top plate and badge are made of mirror-finished stainless steel. This combination ensures smooth transients, good signal handling, and precise response curves. Compared to the Mk1 models with printed circuit boards, the Anniversary series offers an audible difference thanks to the larger transformers and higher-quality components.

The amplifier is designed for use with speakers that have an efficiency of 89 dB or higher. It is ideally paired with Proton cables of the same brand. The amplifier delivers 12 watts into 8 ohms but can be internally modified to work with 4Ω speakers as well. It comes with 5 line-level inputs and a straight-through tape output that can be switched from the front panel. It is an auto-biased amplifier, supporting almost any EL34 tube (it comes supplied with Electro Harmonix tubes).

Both the internal and external quality of the amplifier is excellent: the volume control is positioned on the front panel, while the back features 5 stereo inputs. A pre-amplifier is not necessary unless a phono stage is required. The construction is made with components sourced from Europe and the US, avoiding Chinese components where possible. The output transformers are wound in-house to ensure high-quality standards, and many of the components are either made specifically for the brand or custom-made. It uses Electro Harmonix EL34 tubes and Russian New Old Stock 6H1N tubes as drivers and input tubes.

Technical Specifications:

• Power: 2 x 12 watts Class A into 8Ω at 240V AC
• Load: 8Ω nominal
• Distortion at 1 watt: 40KHz ±1 dB
• Sensitivity: Variable >200mV for full output
• Noise: < (CCIR) – 85 dB
• Power Consumption: 140 watts
• Tubes: 2 x EL34, 2 x 6H1N
• Dimensions: 42 cm depth, 23 cm height, 19 cm width (without tubes)
• Fuses: Power 2A / 240V, HT 500mA / 240V
• Weight: 14 kg