SUGDEN A21AL

Pre owned. In fair condition. Shows signs of wear on the top panel, as also shown in the photos. Comes with remote control, without original packaging.

The Sugden A21aL is a solid-state integrated amplifier featuring a single-ended Class A circuit topology, a design that distinguishes it from most transistor amplifiers. This operating principle avoids the crossover distortion associated with Class AB circuits while maintaining a virtually constant current draw from the power supply. The A21 series has been developed by Sugden since 1968 and represents one of the longest-running designs in audio amplification.

Despite the large heatsinks required to dissipate the heat generated by Class A operation, the chassis remains relatively compact. The construction follows a functional approach, with hand-assembled and hand-soldered circuit boards and selected components. The connections include line inputs, tape monitoring and stereo/mono switching, while the availability of a phono input depends on the specific configuration.

Sound reproduction is distinguished by the quality of the midrange, with articulate, well-defined and natural reproduction of voices and instruments. Tonal nuances and harmonic complexity are rendered with precision, helping create a soundstage with a strong sense of presence and bringing out the expressive qualities of musical performances. Dynamic performance is equally convincing, reproducing variations in intensity and the distinctive character of individual instruments.

Although its rated output power is relatively modest on paper, the amplifier is suitable for many domestic systems, depending on the sensitivity and impedance of the connected loudspeakers. Class A operation does, however, generate considerable heat, making it important to leave sufficient space around the chassis for adequate ventilation.

The Sugden A21aL is an integrated amplifier designed to prioritise sound quality, with particular emphasis on tonal richness, midrange transparency and its ability to reproduce the nuances and expressiveness of music.

Technical specifications:

• Type: Class A solid-state integrated amplifier
• Output power: 25 W per channel into 8 Ω, both channels driven
• Inputs: 4 line inputs; 1 tape input; optional MM/MC phono input
• Outputs: 1 variable-level pre-out; 1 tape output
• Line input sensitivity: 150 mV for maximum output power
• Frequency response: 10 Hz–20 kHz (±0 dB)
• Bandwidth: 6 Hz–200 kHz (±3 dB)
• Signal-to-noise ratio: >90 dB
• Dimensions (W × D × H): 430 × 350 × 80 mm
• Weight: 10 kg