THE ULTIMATE RETRO
INSTRUMENT AMP

Price: $2,500

STUDIO-VINTAGE is the "retro" version of STUDIO-10. It is a return to the simpler faceplate and control layout of the first production STUDIO amp. The main difference fromh the original is that STUDIO VINTAGE is built into 2U instead of 3U.

Just like the original, STUDIO-VINTAGE is divided into two sections: the preamp boost block and the power amp. The preamp is accessed by plugging into the PREAMP INPUT jack on the rear panel, or it can be bypassed by plugging into the POWER AMP IN jack. The signal boost provided by the preamp is set using the PREAMP control. LOUD sets the input signal level into the power amplifier. SPARKLE adds a shimmery presence effect, while SHAPE keeps bass under control.  BODY accesses single-ended sounds with less extreme settings adding warmth. MATCH selects the impedance tap for the speaker output - we will not tell you the tap values: merely set MATCH to what sounds best to you.

POWER SCALE allows power output to be varied from 10W down to milliwatts - over 40dB of dynamic power range. When used with LIMIT, any output tonality can be maintained from full output down to a whisper.

TWEED provides the round sound of old cathode-biased amps, or the fast and punchy sound of new fixed-biased amps.

The preamp and power amp can be used separately, or with line-level effects between them. Note that the signal level is potentially very hot between the preamp and power amp.

The STUDIO-VINTAGE is very low noise. We've retained the passive multiple choke filtering of the original model. Heaters are DC and isolated. Polypropylene filter caps assure a wide frequency response for the supply, complementing the custom toroidal power and output transformers. Both transformers have core bands and plate shielding, and the PT has an electrostatic screen to isolate mains noise.

STUDIO-VINTAGE is built in a 2U chassis with power tube access via the rear panel. Meter and bias adjustments are also on the rear panel. Preamp tube access is via the top cover. Approximate weight is 11kg. The preamp accepts any of 12AT7, 12AU7, 12AX7, 12AY7, 12AZ7, ECC81, ECC82, ECC83, or their equivalents. The power amp can operate with a single tube, or two that are the same, or two that are different. Any of the following types or their equivalents can be used: 6CA7, 6L6G, 6L6GB, 6L6GC, 5881, 6550, 6550A, 6550B, 6550C, El-34, KT-66, KT-77, KT-88.

World-wide mains compatibility is available via the rear-panel RANGE switch. Set it to 115V for any voltage from 100-140V, or to 230V for 200-250V.

Want to see what goes into the STUDIO-10 Group of Amps? Click here for some inside shots!

Would you like to enjoy a STUDIO-VINTAGE? Please email us at amps@londonpower.com, or call 807-473-0952, to discuss your purchase.