Audio Analogue ABsolute PA 3.0 Stereo Power Amplifier, Silver

The Audio Analogue ABsolute PA 3.0 is a stereo power amplifier from the ABsolute reference line, passing 300 watts in Class AB on to the speakers without global feedback.

It's the muscle behind the preamplifier, not the star in front of it. That's exactly what a power amplifier is meant to be: it shouldn't add anything, take anything away, and above all never give the impression it's straining.

Why the ABsolute PA 3.0?

Because it takes on the part of the chain where speakers are most likely to get their revenge. Audio Analogue's ABsolute line does without the global feedback loop that many circuits use to smooth their measured values – here, linearity comes from the layout itself instead, developed under the AIRTECH signature and hand-built in Italy. The 300 watts Class AB aren't an end in themselves, just the cushion a demanding speaker wants to see.

What you'll hear

Above all, composure in the low frequency range. Basslines are driven rather than accompanied, impulses come and cleanly stop, and complex passages don't lose their order. The amplifier withdraws sonically: what you hear is essentially what your preamplifier and your speakers have to say – which, frankly, is the biggest compliment you can pay an amplifier.

Who is the ABsolute PA 3.0 for?

For anyone who already has a good preamplifier and wants to set up the power amp separately – ideally alongside the ABsolute Preamplifier from the same line. Straight talk: nothing works here without a preamplifier, a power amp has neither input selection nor a volume control. If you're after a single device that does everything, the ABsolute 3.0 integrated amplifier is the more honest suggestion.

Our verdict

The PA 3.0 is the choice for separated concepts where the power amp isn't allowed to be the weak link: plenty of power, no global feedback, no showmanship. Whether it suits your preamplifier and your speakers, we're happy to work out with you – HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, +41 44 680 22 00 or shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Technical specifications

• Type: stereo power amplifier, Class AB, without global feedback (Zero Feedback)
• Line: ABsolute reference line, designed by AIRTECH
• Channels: 2 (stereo)
• Output power: 300 W (Class AB)
• Volume control: none – preamplifier required
• Finish: Silver
• Warranty: 5 years from date of purchase
• Dimensions (W×H×D): manufacturer data pending
• Weight: manufacturer data pending

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a preamplifier for the ABsolute PA 3.0?

Yes, absolutely. A power amplifier only amplifies, it has neither input selection nor a volume control. So you need a preamplifier ahead of it that switches your sources and adjusts the level. Within the line, the ABsolute Preamplifier is the obvious partner.

How much power does the ABsolute PA 3.0 have?

It delivers 300 watts in Class AB. This headroom targets control more than volume: speakers with low efficiency or a difficult impedance curve stay cleanly driven even with demanding music, instead of going soft in the bass.

What does Zero Feedback mean in a power amplifier?

Zero Feedback means the circuit operates without a global feedback loop. Usually, part of the output signal is fed back to reduce distortion on paper. In the ABsolute line, Audio Analogue instead relies on a design that's linear from the ground up, by AIRTECH.

Can I run the PA 3.0 with a preamplifier from another brand?

Yes. The PA 3.0 isn't tied to its own line and works with any high-quality preamplifier. What matters is a matching output level and the right connection type. Tell us which preamplifier you have – we'll check the combination for you beforehand.

Why buy the ABsolute PA 3.0 from HD Zürisee?

Because a power amplifier only makes sense as part of a system, and we go through exactly that system with you instead of just selling you watts. We're an authorized Audio Analogue dealer, have our own technician for service and installation, and bring the unit to you on request.

Pairs well with

A power amplifier is always only a third of the equation: the matching preamplifier is under Preamplifiers, the rest of the line in the Audio Analogue world and alternative concepts under All Amplifiers. Add the Speakers and the Cables & Connectors that connect both.