AVM Ovation SA 8.3S Stereo Power Amplifier, Black

The AVM Ovation SA 8.3S is a stereo power amplifier with a tube input stage that delivers more than 230 watts into 8 ohms and more than 420 watts into 4 ohms per channel.

Two toroidal transformers, a tube in the input and a black aluminium front that looks like understatement. That there is a powerhouse underneath is only revealed by the weight of 42 kilograms.

Why the SA 8.3S?

Because here AVM packs the principle of the large Ovation power amplifiers into a stereo chassis: each channel has its own 1000 VA toroidal transformer, 270,000 µF of filter capacitance and 24 MOSFETs, so the channels stay separate right down to the power supply. At the input sits a new anode-follower tube stage with a dual differential input stage, the signal path is fully DC-coupled, and automatic offset compensation keeps it stable. Everything is made 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; in its short description AVM speaks of up to 400 watts. Inputs are XLR and RCA, switching is via trigger input (5–20 V DC) or AIR Trigger together with an AVM preamplifier, and a dimmable OLED display shows the status. There is no volume control: the SA 8.3S is a pure power amplifier and needs a preamplifier in front of it – even if the tube in the input suggests otherwise.

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

For high-end systems that want power and control in a single unit, without setting up two monoblocks. Plainly put: if you already run larger speakers with a merciless appetite for current, you will find more reserve in the MA 8.3S monoblocks – and if you do not need the tube stage, have a look at the SA 8.3 LITE. You will still have to set it up firmly and with two people: 42 kilograms is not hand luggage.

Our verdict

The SA 8.3S is AVM's stereo power amplifier for everyone who is not willing to compromise: a tube at the input, power at the output, separate power supplies per channel. Which preamplifier and which speakers get the best out of it is something we prefer to work out together at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil – call us, write to us or use 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: brushed black aluminium
• Manufacturing: handmade, AVM Malsch (Germany)
• Warranty: 2 years, 4 years with online registration at AVM
• Included: Ovation SA 8.3S stereo power amplifier, delivered in an AVM flight case

Frequently asked questions

What distinguishes the SA 8.3S from the SA 8.3 LITE?

The SA 8.3S has an anode-follower tube stage at the input, two toroidal transformers (one per channel) and 270,000 µF per channel. The LITE gets by with one transformer, a transistor-based input and less power. If you want the tube, take the S.

Does the SA 8.3S have a volume control?

No. Despite the tube stage, the SA 8.3S is a pure power amplifier with a fixed gain of 30. Volume and source selection are handled by a preamplifier or a streaming preamplifier, for example the PAS 8.3S from the same series.

How much power does the SA 8.3S deliver?

Per channel AVM specifies over 230 watts into 8 ohms, over 420 watts into 4 ohms and over 700 watts into 2 ohms. That is enough for large floorstanding speakers and also for models that like to draw current. The damping factor is above 400.

How big and heavy is the SA 8.3S?

It measures 432 × 253 × 420 mm and weighs 42 kilograms. Plan for a sturdy rack or a floor with load reserve, and have two people carry the power amplifier. It also needs enough air around it – we will help you with the setup.

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

Because a power amplifier in this class only shines with the right preamplifier, the right speakers and a location that can carry it – we assess that from long experience. As an authorised AVM dealer in Wädenswil we advise you, deliver and set up. Call us, write to us or use WhatsApp.

Goes well with

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