AVM Ovation SA 8.3S Stereo Power Amplifier, Cellini Chrome

The AVM Ovation SA 8.3S Cellini is a stereo power amplifier with a chrome front, a tube input stage and more than 230 watts into 8 ohms per channel.

This is where the Ovation technology gets its big entrance: chrome-plated front, dimmed OLED display, and underneath the same construction as in the plainer sisters. If you want to show your technology rather than hide it in the rack, you are in the right place.

Why the SA 8.3S Cellini?

The Cellini version changes only the dress, not the core: anode-follower tube stage at the input, dual differential input stage, a fully DC-coupled signal path with automatic offset compensation. The output stage has 24 MOSFETs per channel, supplied by two toroidal transformers of 1000 VA each and 270,000 µF per channel. AVM builds them by hand in Malsch.

What you get

Per channel over 230 watts into 8 ohms, over 420 watts into 4 ohms and over 700 watts into 2 ohms. Inputs in XLR and RCA, a trigger input and AIR Trigger for joint control with an AVM preamplifier, delivered in a flight case. Among the things it does not have is volume control – the preamplifier provides that.

Who is the SA 8.3S Cellini for – and who is it not for?

For everyone who wants to place their power amplifier as a visible statement in the room. Plainly put: chrome loves a microfibre cloth, and 42 kilograms love a sturdy rack. If you prefer to stay visually restrained, you get identical electronics in black or silver.

Our verdict

The SA 8.3S Cellini is the stereo power amplifier you see before you hear it – and hear that you should not hide it behind a door. What matters when combining it with a preamplifier and speakers is something we are glad to clarify with you at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil – by phone, message or WhatsApp.

Technical data

• Type: stereo power amplifier, Class A/AB, tube input stage (anode follower), MOSFET output stage
• Series: AVM Ovation S
• Power per channel: over 230 W / 8 Ω · over 420 W / 4 Ω · over 700 W / 2 Ω
• Gain: 30 (29.5 dB)
• Inputs: XLR (40 kΩ) and RCA (20 kΩ); sensitivity 1.25 V for 350 W into 4 Ω
• Input stage: dual differential input stage, tube stage as anode follower
• Output stage: 24 MOSFETs per channel, current-source stabilised, fully DC-coupled with automatic offset compensation
• Power supply: 2 toroidal transformers of 1000 VA each (one per channel) · 270,000 µF filter capacitance per channel
• Distortion (25 W / 4 Ω): below 0.02 % · intermodulation below 0.01 %
• Signal-to-noise ratio (25 W / 4 Ω): over 94 dB(A)
• Frequency response: below 1 Hz to over 100 kHz (−3 dB) · power bandwidth 5 Hz to over 50 kHz
• Rise time: 10 µs (4 Ω) · slew rate over 15 V/µs
• Damping factor (8 Ω): over 400
• Volume control: not available – preamplifier required
• Control: trigger input 5–20 V DC · AIR Trigger (AVM Intelligent Remote) · dimmable OLED graphic display
• Mains voltage: 230 V / 50 Hz · max. 3500 W
• Power consumption: 120 W without signal · standby below 0.5 W
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 432 × 253 × 420 mm
• Weight: 42 kg
• Finish: aluminium with chrome front (Cellini)
• Manufacturing: handmade, AVM Malsch (Germany)
• Warranty: 2 years, 4 years with online registration at AVM
• Included: Ovation SA 8.3S Cellini stereo power amplifier, delivered in an AVM flight case

Frequently asked questions

What is the Cellini version of the SA 8.3S?

Cellini is the version with a chrome front. Technically it matches the versions in black and silver: the same tube stage, the same performance data, the same chassis. The difference is the look – and the price, which is higher for it.

Does the SA 8.3S Cellini have speaker terminals for bi-wiring?

AVM states nothing about this in the data sheet, so we make no promises here. If bi-wiring matters to you, we will ask the manufacturer before you order. Just tell us which speakers you use.

Can I connect the SA 8.3S to an AVM preamplifier?

Yes, via XLR or RCA. With an AVM preamplifier such as the PAS 8.3S, the power amplifier can additionally be switched on and off together via the AIR Trigger. A trigger input with 5 to 20 volts DC is also available.

How heavy is the SA 8.3S Cellini?

It weighs 42 kilograms at 432 × 253 × 420 mm. We recommend a sturdy rack or a floor with sufficient load capacity, and transport by two people. Our team is happy to help with the setup.

Why buy the AVM Ovation SA 8.3S Cellini at HD Zürisee?

Because we do not just sell power amplifiers of this class but integrate them into systems: preamplifier, speakers, cabling and setup. As an authorised AVM dealer in Wädenswil we offer you advice, delivery and service with our technician Mauri from a single source.

Goes well with

• Preamplifiers – the control centre in front of the power amplifier
• Floorstanding Speakers – partners for this much power
• Cables & Connectors – XLR, speaker and mains cables
• Power Amplifiers – the comparison with the rest of the range