AGD Audio Mk2 review


 

This is my review of my AGD Audion Mk2 monoblock power amps. These are Class D amps with Gallium Nitride power MOSFETs.

As those who follow me know, I am a Single Ended Triode tube amp guy since I like high efficiency single driver speakers. I've tried to like solid state power amps and have bought and tried the First Watt F2J and SIT-2 power amps but ultimately selling them as I find that they fall short of my 300B SET amps.

I first tried the AGD Audions when they came out in the Mk1 version. I was very happy. It had great dynamics, better bass extension, smooth, organic and natural sound comparable with my best 300B (and I use late 1930s to 1950s WE 300Bs). Finally I found a solid state amp that I can live with.

Then this year, the new KT88mk2 GanT Tube modules became available from AGD. These boosted the sampling frequency from 400khz to 800khz. Power remains the same at 170w/4ohm or 85w/8ohm. The improvement was quite a bit better in my system. Better separation and soundstage. More air and organic nature to the sound. So much so that these AGD Audions Mk2 are now the primary amps in my systems. I still play with my 300B amps but I  am spending more time with the Audions in my system.

Highly recommended and just wanted to share with others my excitement about these Class D GAN amps. No connection whatsoever with AGD other than a happy customer. They are, in my opinion, game changers.

ddriveman

@ddriveman I have the AGD Grand Vivace's and absolutely love them! I'm not a SET or tube guy for that matter, but they were still game changing amps for me. I have the Andante Pre/Dac which is also  a wonderful piece!

Yes, there are now class D amps that challenge the best tube amps on their own turf!

Ralph, 

When are you going to have production of your GaN mono blocks and when will they be added to your website and when will they get a formal review?  How many proto types are out there?  The only comment on the sound seems to be from June of this year on your feedback page.  Is there some other feedback somewhere we can read?  Hoping your amp is a super success......but where is it?  Are you having supply issues like so many?