Unbelievable integrated amp in Triode or Pentode mode. Driving QUAD ESL 989's (not an easy task). AYON Spirit has plenty of power to drive the ESL's in either mode - but dimensionality, focus, imaging, depth, and precision are sublime in Pentode mode. May be due to the power and ability to control the larger diaphragms on the ESL 989's.
The support and guidance from Paul at USA Tube Audio is first rate and first class. Maybe the last Amp I buy..seriously !
The Amp is built like a tank and dead silent. There is no comparison between this and any Far Eastern pretenders to the high end throne. Well paid EU guild craftsman trump any of the newly trained farm hands of the East. I have tried many of the so called "bargain" eastern Amps and other components - hype, marketing, and clever copying of recycled 40 year old designs cannot compete with the creativity, design excellence, and craftsmanship of AYON. Kudos to the AYON team and USA Tube Audio - well done !!!!
