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Knispel Audio Erik Signature 70

230.000 kr – 260.000 kr incl. VAT

A masterpiece!

A true dream amplifier! The culmination of the life's work of legend Erik Andersson.
A musical dream design based on the GM70 tube. All impedance matched with interstage transformers. With its 2 x 25W into 8ฮฉ, it drives most anything. And it drives it with a breathtaking richness of nuance, colour and musical drive.
Perfect not least for those who have the acoustic models of reality as a yardstick. The transient richness in both large and small is breathtaking!
The amplifier comes with NOS tubes. And Knispel Audio has chosen the graphite version of GM70 as these are considered to sound better in this construction and also be more durable. The copper version is available as an option.
Finish on the pictures is in chrome.
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Description

 

Knispel Audio's Erik Signature 70 is the very definition of audio engineering and is characterised by GM70 triodes, direct-heated tubes known for their superior sound quality and powerful output. The "70" in the model name denotes this specific element, highlighting its importance in the amplifier design.

The model continues the unique design philosophy of Erik Andersson, known for his previous audio creations. This model carries on the legacy with the integration of Swedish Lundahl interconnect transformers, improving sound quality by better preserving signal integrity and minimising losses. The amplifier's circuit design has been carefully refined with a focus on component selection, layout optimisation and precise routing and bias points for the tubes. This design eliminates external feedback and adopts an "air-wired" method in the signal section to preserve the purity of sound.

The power supply in the amplifier is passively regulated, a decision that came from extensive listening tests that showed this method to be superior in reproducing both dynamic range and micro details of the music. This passive control is in line with the topology of single-ended Class-A amplifiers, traditionally celebrated for their ability to deliver a magical listening experience, where the robust power of the GM70 tube plays a central role.

Challenging the norms of industrial design, the chassis of the Erik Signature 70 has a wider than deep shape, facilitating integration into home environments while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing appearance. The basic design of Andersson's previous models is preserved, with a two-level layout that strategically places the power supply above the signal section to shield it from interference.

Knispel Audio places great emphasis on the visual appeal of its products, arguing that high-quality audio equipment should please the eye as much as the ear. Therefore, considerable effort has been put into the aesthetics of the Erik Signature 70, such as the elimination of visible screws both on the amplifier and its remote control, and the presentation of more than 20 design sketches before the final design was determined. The attention to detail extends to the use of 1.5 mm thick brass for the top of the amplifier, which is carefully cut out, polished to a mirror-like finish and then chrome-plated. The side panels offer customisation options with solid stained khaya mahogany or walnut, treated with hardwax oil for durability and beauty. A brushed aluminium option that is naturally anodised is available for those who prefer a more discreet appearance.

This uncompromising approach to both performance and aesthetics ensures that the Erik Signature 70 is not only a centrepiece of any sound system, but also of the living room in which it is located.

GM70 tubes are naturally chosen for their magical ability to reproduce music in harmony with their power. I think of the tube world as a balance scale; more nuance requires tubes with less power - more power requires tubes with less nuance. With this amplifier design, this is not true. Here you get 2 x 25W into 8 ohms that are literally bursting with musical life. It is absolutely amazing! This direct-heated tube is also well-built, has consistent quality and good durability / longevity. It is also still relatively good on NOS tubes. And not least, it has a very high sound quality with high output power.

Specifications
  • Single-ended triode amplifier
  • Transformer coupled instead of capacitor coupled
  • No feedback in the amplifier
  • Only passive regulation in the power supplies
  • The GM70 sockets are manufactured by Knispel Audio as the quality of existing ones is insufficient.
  • The signalling part is air-built (no circuit board; hard-wired)
  • The amplifier contains 10 transformers + two chokes from Swedish Lundahl + two heavy toroidal transformers for separate supply of glow and anode voltage.
  • Regarding the GM70 tube, it is available in two different variants, the only difference is the material the anode is made of - copper or graphite. Both the copper and graphite tubes are supposed to withstand 125 watts of anode loss (the power going through the tube, not the same as the output power of 25 watts). However, Knispel Audio believes that the graphite tube sounds better in this amplifier.
SPECIFICATIONS
Outdoor effect 2 x 25W at 8 ohm load
Output impedance 2 ohm
Anode loss 90 watts
Power consumption 300 watts
Inputs 4 x RCA, one of which is selectable to XLR balanced.
Remote control The remote control operates inputs-volume-mute.
Dimension Width: 550mm
Depth: 450 mm
Height: 300mm
Weight 45 kg
63 Kg with wooden shipping box.

 

Safety aspects

The Knispel Audio Erik Signature 70 is a high-efficiency single-ended Class-A tube amplifier that generates a lot of heat during operation. Because of this, and the high voltages involved, a safety enclosure is necessary to prevent accidents and fulfil safety regulations. Designed to match the aesthetics of the amplifier, the protective cover is made from 2mm thick iron sheet that is shaped and perforated to match the curvature of the front panel. After careful welding and grinding, it is painted with a black texture paint.

The enclosure is well-ventilated, which does not adversely affect the amplifier's cooling, and the intense glow of the GM70 tubes creates a beautiful light pattern through the perforations in a dimly lit room. What's more, the tube sockets are custom-made from 3cm-thick woven bakelite to handle high currents and voltages, with silver-coated contact sleeves that ensure reliable contact over time and protect against microphonic feedback. The anode sleeve is recessed and insulated for additional protection against electric shock.

About Knispel Audio

Located in the heart of Sweden, Knispel Audio is a celebration of the refined craft of audio engineering. Founded by passionate audiophiles, the company has made a name for itself by designing and manufacturing amplifiers that not only meet but exceed the expectations of the most ardent listeners. With a deep understanding of both technology and aesthetics, Knispel Audio has developed products that are as much works of art as they are technical marvels.

The story of Knispel Audio begins with founder Erik Andersson, whose early interest in electronics and sound led him to experiment with different audio designs. His journey through the world of audio technology shaped the company's philosophy, which rests on three pillars: innovation, quality and beauty. These principles are evident in every detail of their products, from the choice of components to the final design. Andersson's signature is evident in every aspect of construction and the signature sound that Knispel Audio is known for.

Knispel Audio's commitment to quality is manifested in their rigorous development process. Each new model undergoes extensive testing and fine-tuning to ensure it not only meets, but exceeds the highest standards in audio performance. This obsession with detail extends to the aesthetics of their amplifiers. The company strongly believes that a high-quality audio product should not only sound good, but also look good. This approach comes to life through their minimalist yet elegant design, where every component is positioned for optimal function and visual appeal.

Another characteristic of Knispel Audio is their choice of materials. They use only the finest woods and metals, giving their products a sense of luxury and durability. This choice is not only for the sake of appearance; it also contributes to the acoustic performance of the amplifiers. Knispel Audio's products are known for delivering a warm, detailed and enveloping sound that can enchant even the most discerning listener.

All in all, Knispel Audio is more than just a manufacturer of audio amplifiers; it is a culture of audio perfection. The company continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in audio technology, while respecting and honouring the traditions that have made Swedish audio design famous worldwide. Knispel Audio stands as a bastion of innovation and aesthetic excellence in the audio industry.

The people behind Knispel Audio:

Henrik Westerberg has a solid background in mechanical engineering and precision machining, which has led to his role as head of chassis design and construction at Knispel Audio. His technical expertise and creative vision are central to the company's success.

Another key person in the history of Knispel Audio was Mr Erik Andersson (1940 - 2023), a prominent figure in tube amplifier technology both in Sweden and internationally. Erik began his career at a young age building shortwave transmitters and then worked as a television technician before opening his own hi-fi shop. During the 1980s, he pioneered the development of affordable, high-quality Class A tube amplifiers that gained popularity worldwide. After a period with his own brand in the UK, he returned to Sweden to continue innovating in the audio industry, culminating in the launch of GM70-based amplifiers such as 'The Dream' and later the Erik Signatur 70.

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Knispel Audio is further complemented by two other key members of its team: Henrik Marcolla and Bjรถrn Synnergren.

Mr Henrik Marcolla holds a Master of Science in Engineering from the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm and has specialised in CAD and product development. At Knispel Audio he has played a crucial role in the development of the remote control system for the "Erik Signature 70". Marcolla's technical knowledge and experience in modern design and system integration have been important in bringing Knispel Audio's products to a new level of usability and functionality.

Mr Bjรถrn Synnergren works as a power network electrician and has extensive experience in analogue audio technology. At Knispel Audio, he has contributed his expertise by test-driving components and fine-tuning amplifier operating points. Synnergren's practical experience and in-depth knowledge of the mechanics of audio systems has been instrumental in ensuring that each amplifier not only meets, but exceeds, the high expectations for sound quality and reliability.

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