The EAR 861 power amplifier is a remarkable piece of audio equipment that combines the best of triode amplification with enough power to drive a wide range of speakers. Designed by Tim de Paravicini, this 32-watt per channel (bridgeable to 64 watts mono) Class A amplifier delivers a captivating musical experience.
The amp's visual appeal is striking, featuring a compact chrome and black enamel chassis with retro-cool tube cages and towering chrome-topped transformers. Despite its small size, it weighs a substantial 65 pounds, largely due to de Paravicini's proprietary "Yoshino" transformers.
Sonically, the EAR 861 excels in several areas:
Midrange performance: The amp provides a strikingly tactile and intimate midrange, bordering on magical..
Bass response: Surprisingly potent and well-defined, competitive with other excellent tube amplifiers.
Treble: Harmonically rich and complete, without being stereotypically tube-soft.
Tonal colors: Intensely saturated, presenting the core of music with exceptional immediacy and textural intensity.
The EAR 861 employs Enhanced Triode Mode (ETM), which allows for true triode linearity using robust EL519 pentode tubes. This innovative design, coupled with the absence of overall negative feedback, ensures unrivaled clarity and control across all frequencies.
While the amp excels in many areas, it does have a slight darkness in resolving low-level ambient detail in the far field, which contributes to its intimate presentation style. Overall, the EAR 861 offers a unique and engaging listening experience that will appeal to audiophiles seeking refined yet powerful sound reproduction.
The EAR 861 sets a new standard in Class A power amplification with Tim de Paravicini’s innovative Enhanced Triode Mode (ETM). Delivering 32 watts per channel, bridgeable to 64 watts mono, the 861 offers pure, linear triode performance from the robust EL519 pentode tube, designed for longer operational life. The push-pull configuration, direct-coupled circuit, and absence of overall negative feedback ensure unrivaled clarity and control across all frequencies. Whether used in balanced or unbalanced mode, this self-biasing amplifier is built for optimal performance with minimal user intervention.
Features
32W per channel stereo, bridgeable to 64W mono
Enhanced Triode Mode (ETM) for true triode linearity
Push-pull Class A operation for superior sound quality
No overall negative feedback
Self-biasing for easy tube maintenance
Balanced and unbalanced inputs for flexible setup
Uses 4 x EL519 output tubes for exceptional durability
The EAR 861 is designed for those who demand not only power but also precision from their audio equipment. With its unique Enhanced Triode Mode and push-pull Class A operation, this amplifier delivers an effortless listening experience that transforms even the most demanding recordings into emotionally resonant performances. Expect a strong grip on bass, smooth treble, and an immersive midrange—all delivered with a sense of authority that belies its 32-watt power rating. Perfect for audiophiles seeking a refined yet powerful sound.
