One of the most controversial amplifier reviews that I have written over the years was my report on the Vincent Audio SV-737 back in 2021; one needs to fast forward to the second part to understand the bias that I held at that time towards almost all German audio equipment. Time heals some wounds — but not all.
The biggest takeaway from my time with the integrated was that it offered a lot of performance for the money and was built like a Leopard tank.
It was Schnecken of the highest order.
The manufacturer has worked hard to keep its products affordable and the new Vincent Audio SV-500 MK ($1499.95 USD) builds on the foundation of its predecessor, the SV-500, with the addition of HDMI and Bluetooth to its extensive list of capabilities, including a new 32-bit 384 kHz-capable DAC.
The new integrated is a hybrid vacuum tube and solid-state design that outputs 50 watts/channel into 8 ohms (80 watts/channel into 4 ohms).
“From the time of its introduction, the Vincent Audio SV-500 was and continues to be praised by dealers and consumers alike,” said Steve Niemi, Director of Global Sales, Pangea Audio Distributing, LLC. “It’s continually cited as one of the best examples of hybrid designs in the sub-$2,000 price range.
“As much as the technology and sonics continue to lead the category, Vincent Audio saw there was room for an upgrade by way of expanding compatibility with an exponentially wider array of sources, which led Vincent Audio to the addition of HDMI and Bluetooth connectivity.”
Vincent Audio’s SV-500 MK integrated amplifier features six inputs — two analog and four digital – including Bluetooth 5.0 and HDMI with ARC (Audio Return Channel).
At the heart of the SV-500 MK is a Vincent Audio-exclusive circuit that features three user-replaceable vacuum tubes: (2) 6N1 and (1) 12AX7. The tubes are biased for longer life, conservatively estimated to be 10 years.
The new 32-bit/96kHz DAC makes it compatible with a wide range of affordable hi-res network players like the WiiM Ultra.
Adds Mr. Niemi: “As one of our most popular hybrid integrated amplifiers to date, the SV-500 set a high bar in sonic output and usability that stands out from competitors in its price class. The new SV-500 MK builds on the latter, while maintaining the integrity of the former.”
Features
- Hybrid vacuum tube and solid-state design
- New HDMI and Bluetooth inputs
- Digital inputs decodes 16-bit, 24-bit and 32-bit audio files up to 384 kHz
- Front panel headphone jack
- Inputs: 2 x Stereo RCA, 1 x Optical, 1 x Coax, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Bluetooth 5.0
- Outputs: 1 x Stereo Rec Out, 1 x Stereo Pre Out, 2 x 3.5mm Jack (Power control), 1 x pair of speaker connectors
- Tubes: 1 x 12AX7, 2 x 6N1
- Wireless remote
- Color: Black or silver
Specifications
- Frequency response: 20Hz – 20kHz (+/- 0.5dB)
- Output power 8 Ohm: 2 x 50 Watts RMS
- Output power 4 Ohm: 2 x 80 Watt RMS
- Input sensitivity: 420mV
- THD: < 0.1% (1kHz, 1W)
- Signal to noise range: >90dB
- Input impedance: 47 kOhm
- Dimensions: 17″ wide x 4.6″ high x 14.7″ deep
- Weight: 22 lbs.
The Bottom Line
Vincent Audio have proven to us that they know how to build a rather robust and great sounding integrated amplifier and we were surprised to see the $1,499 USD asking price for the new SV-500 MK based on the build quality they they usually deliver.
The SV-500 MK may not offer the power of the SV-737, but 50 watts might be enough for a lot high-sensitivity bookshelf and floor standing loudspeakers if you don’t have a huge room — the SV-737 was superb with the Q Acoustics 3050i and I’d love to listen to the new iteration with the forthcoming 3050c floor standing speakers that will be out in January 2025.
The one glaring omission here is a phono pre-amplifier which is a mistake in 2024; and they are capable of designing really good ones based on our previous experience.
The addition of an HDMI ARC input makes it compatible TVs and other video sources — the absence of a subwoofer output, however, feels like another lost opportunity.
The trademark Vincent porthole that allows one to see inside the amplifier and the glowing tubes is also not part of the package.
Expect the SV-500 MK hybrid integrated amplifier to be a fly under the radar type of amplifier that is probably worth an audition if your budget tops out at $1,500.
For more information: pangeaaudio.com
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