There are many ways to eat your Smarties and Infigo Audio believes that it has developed a solution for an issue that is problematic for some Class A power amplifiers. Heat. Far too much.
If the Canadian manufacturer does not ring a bell, that would make two of us; although we are familiar with its CEO, Hans Looman, who was a consultant for almost 10 years to another Canadian brand, Resonessence Labs. The defunct manufacturer offered an excellent range of affordable DACs that were very popular (not popular enough, apparently) and during his time there, Looman was in the process of introducing his amplifier technology under the Resonessence Labs label.
Fast forward to 2023 and Infigo Audio offers a range of power amplifiers, audio cables, and a rather pricy DAC.
The new Method 6 power amplifier has been announced and offers a different take on Class A amplification; we’re calling it Canadian Cool for now.
Featuring many of the same attributes as its Method 3 monoblock amplifier, the new Method 6 (SRP: $20,000) offers Infigo Audio’s “no shortcuts” approach to product design. Like its predecessor, Method 6 features a Class A architecture, but with a unique design that maintains a low temperature that is not typical of Class A amplifiers.
“Class A is the standard for the most powerful and sonically pleasing amplifiers, but sometimes the electronics are so hot they can heat a room,” says Hans Looman, CEO, Infigo Audio, Inc. “We managed to solve this problem by developing Low Temperature Class A, which features multiple, smaller, biased output devices instead of the more common practice of incorporating fewer and larger devices. By doing so, we spread the heat over a larger area without a heavy concentration that often results in electronics that are too hot to touch.”
Low Temperature Class A is notable for the elimination of cross-over distortion, with ultra-fast transient response. Thanks to this development, sonics remain impactful, crisp, and clear, while the amplifier stays cool to the touch. Over time, Low Temperature Class A’s lower operating temperature maximizes the life of the amplifier.
A highlight of Infigo Audio amplifiers is the company’s DCBA system. DCBA, or DC Bias Adjustment, balances output DC level without limiting low frequency output. Bass response is tight, powerful, with elimination of phase distortion at lower frequencies thanks to the removal of capacitors in the audio path. The low frequency range extends down to 0Hz, with a separate protection circuit that disconnects the speakers when the DC level in the input signal reaches too high a level.
Aesthetically, the Method 6 fits comfortably in any high-end audio system, but especially when matched with Infigo Audio components. It is available in silver and black, and, like all Infigo electronics, the solid top is removable, affording a view of the internal circuitry that is protected by a transparent cover.
Power handling is rated at 2 x 100W in 8 Ohms, bandwidth is 0Hz – 200kHz (-3 dB), 26dB gain, sensitivity is 2V for maximum output, and voltage is rated at 120VAC / 240VAC selectable, 50/60 Hz.
Adds Mr. Looman: “Every product bearing the Infigo Audio logo is what I call ‘FAB’ — a combination of features, advantages, and benefits. Like our other electronics, the Method 6 fits a clear and specific role in what we set out to create as a lean, highly focused product selection.”
For more information: infigoaudio.com
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