Manley Neo-Classic SE/PP 300B Monoblock Amplifier

Andre Marc has posted a review of the Manley Neo-Classic SE/PP 300B monoblock amplifier ($7200/pair) at Audio Video Revolution, together with an interview of Chris Dauray of Manley Labs. His conclusions:

Manley is one of the American champions of tubed hifi components. They make excellent sounding, ruggedly built, and fairly priced gear. I have had the distinct pleasure of reviewing four of their products and I can, without reservation, recommend you put them at the top of your list if you are a tube aficionado.

The Neo-Classic SE/PP 300B is so far my favorite amplifier that I have heard from Manley. I like it as much as the 300B preamp I reviewed. Both offer wide, natural soundstaging and a beautiful and natural presentation. While not cheap at $7,200, they offer a level of refinement that I believe is commensurate with the price. They will probably offer a lifetime of enjoyment. You can also count on top notch support. Manley does not cycle products in and out like other companies, so you will not feel compelled to “upgrade”.

Of course, to consider the Manley 300B, you need appropriate circumstances such as a smaller room, reasonably efficient speakers, and an ear for superb tonal quality, deep soundstaging, and a glorious midrange. If the above applies to you, head to your dealer for a demo. But you may want to bring your check book. You can find very nice 300B based SET amps from boutique suppliers in Europe and Japan, but you will pay a heavy premium. Why would you want to do that, unless you think the grass is always greener on other shores. I can only offer these parting thoughts…the day after I packed up the Manley amps, I missed them already.

You can read the full review, as well as the interview, here.