Has anyone swapped out the tubes for 12AU7's? I looked up the ECC99 tube online and JJ are the only ones making these. However, on the Heaven 11 website, under the specs listing, it states that you can use 12BH7 or 12AU7 tubes. I just so happen to have 12AU7 tubes in my possession, so it made me wonder how the unit would sound compared to the ECC99 tubes?
I'm glad you got around to reviewing this piece because I do remember how well you liked the original Billie. Everyone I know who has reviewed this piece seems to really like its sound.
My biggest disappointment with integrated amplifiers, and this is exhibit A, is the seemingly irresistible inclusion of DACs, phono stages, streamers, etc. The only component I have owned that does everything good/great is the Technics SU-GX70-K Network Audio Amplifier It is a digital amplifier that converts analog to digital and back again at the output level and it is excellent with digital sources as well l so I don’t use my stand-alone DACs As I understand it, it is not Class A or B or D It has a nice streamer built in It does some room correction It has an excellent MM phono stage which is no surprise for Technics The black unit goes for $1,500 Not a lot of power 80/40 watts but all my speakers can be run off low power SE tube amplification so it is a lot of power for me Not trying to push in on the Billie, but I would like to get it for $1,500 or less as a power amplifier and eliminate crap “features”
@@NosEL34 Well, some one has a like of sense. Thank you. I've got no issue with my Rogue Audio SphinxV3 hybrid-integrated. It doesn't have a DAC inside (I don't use an external DAC) but it has a very high quality phono stage.
What make you pick the Heaven 11 Mk2 over the Vicent SV 267 Mk2 that you picked as integrated amp of the year for 2022 if the difference in price is closer than $2000 vs $3000?
It would been better if it was omitted Built In DAC (Digital Inputs) and focus on Analog In only and reduce the price and let the buyer put the money saved onto separate DAC. Great design and concept though. Maybe next version would be the one. :)
Thanks Jay. I have a separates rig too and this is my first integrated in 20 years. Been driving my Buchardt 400mk2z and KEFls50metas (w/sub) with the Billie2 + an Ares2 DAC. Using the additional gold tube option and have been really enjoying the synergy & performance.
As the pre-amp seems to be the star, it would be interesting to connect Ganfet AGD Audion MkIII's via the pre outputs on the Billy as a pre-amp only and compare the sound to the internal Ice outputs.
I need to compare Billy Badass vs Schiit Combo Freya Plus /vidar2 !! I been buying amps from $500-3kU.S. since 1989 and i spent lots of time with those amps from 70s era until today ! ! Thanks Jay 🇺🇸 vs 🇨🇦 Lets go !!
For a bit more you have the Unity Atom all in one. In my view just forget them all and save up to JR amps or the Sugden A21 or Galion ts a20 or SE Tube amps such as the NAT amps 🤔 As with the Ares dac better take a look at the Cyan 2 dac or FX Tube Glass dac 🤔
Good afternoon ☕️ $13k won’t even cover the GST on the new Gryphon 333 ..so there’s a scale to be sure. The OG Billie was great ..this should prove interesting 🧐 Have a great CANADA Day 🇨🇦
Unfortunately they dont recommend with high impedance speakers and specifically mention the Zu (I have DWX Zu) Cant have everything I guess. It's fine for 99% of the people out there.
@@HaamRadio54 . A reminder for the Noobs. Any speakers' presentation in terms of soundstage, imaging and bass performance is wholly dependent on the recording. No speaker can give what isn't there. There is no stereo imaging from a mono recording, as an extreme example. And then there's all the electronics in between ready to distort the original.
@@HaamRadio54 I found a used pair of blue DWX Superbly and they blew me away with presenting a natural soundstage experience, presentation size and tonality. I sold Dynaudio Special 40s and Totem Signature ones after hearing the Iu. I don't even have them placed ideally being on a shelf, a very secure one but still not on stands. I have them upside down. The front end is really good. Auralic streamer, Rogue preamp and Belles mono amps Also an Audiolab 9000 cd. Cant recommend them highly enough. Probably a good budget match with the ZU would be a used Unicorn Primo integrated amp for about a grand. Is the Superbly worth it? Don't know. I haven't heard the standard unit. Check out Nemo's review. He loved them with a Pathos integrated amp.
@@TriAmpHiFiI have found the biggest influence on depth of image and spatial cues are the speakers ability to have minimal phase shift through the mid band, 10 -15 degrees at most
@@TriAmpHiFiif disagree slightly, as you could have a speaker and room placements etc that fiddle with sound and reflections that create some "soundstage and imaging". Highlighting certain frequencies or having odd resonance could also do it. Of course such things may not be ideal or realistic
Damn no HDMI ARC/E-ARC. This would have been perfect for a sound bar replacement and the lack of USB input makes it harder to be a desktop/near-field integrated amp given its size. The price point is kind of weird as well. Priced higher than a desktop amp but less than Full Featured dedicated Integrated for a main setup. I would like to see a linear toroidal power supply, upgraded DAC and E-ARC HDMI input even if the chassis would have to be larger to make these features available.
If designed well, there is precisely zero downside with a good smps and class d. Zero benefit to a bigger heavier more expensive linear toroidal power supply. Audiophile wives tale lives on.
@@Artcore103 I disagree at 3:46 the camera is picking up voltage ripple through the tube glow , Yes I know the frame-rate is exaggerating the ripple but you can see it and I am sure this ripple effects the sound.
I have a Gilly amp. In England we are lucky and can go to Twineham Audio and get Gilly to either do a custom build or get an existing amp modded (I have a Marantz PM45 that is so much better than the KI Signature version)
I would love to see you review Unison Research Unico hybrid amplifiers and compare them to this one (and others), since they are in similar price range! Zero Fidelity reviewed the Unico Primo and he only said good things about it, so I believe they will compete. Also, there is the newer Unico Due, so I believe you should give that one a try! Unico amplifiers don't have much reviews online, so that would be beneficial.
Great review, and great to see such sweet combinations of a tube pre and class d power section. Kind of a side note, but would love your impressions of the latest Hypex offerings. In particular the Nilai. Probably not the same echelon as Starkrimson, but is supposed to be a VERY special amp 🙏🏼
As though we can chose between sound quality and budget ! Not really isn't it at least for most of us ! When I watch all these reviews, excellence goes to more money each time. Thing like "it is not fair to compare this unit at 2k with another one at 15K", this is sickening really.....just compare their sound qualities objectively, not their luxury aspect.
This amp is the future of hifi,the combination of class D and Tubes,i had in the past a Bel Canto class D amp with a Icon audio tube pre-amp,the best sound i ever had.
try a class A with tube pre.. i had bel canto monos, with the tube pre.. it was good... though nothing like a solid state class A.. 25 wpc is more than adequate..
How do you think this would mate with my modded Magnapan .7 speakers (with fuses removed)? I know you don't my room, etc., but in general broad strokes, does this provide enough 'ommph' to power the Maggies which need power and high current? Also, while I am still mainly a turntable guy, I do want an optimized DAC for this unit. What budget oriented DAC do you recommend?
Good review. It looks like they were aiming for a price point. In terms of using this as a 2.1 or 2.2 channel amp for a TV... do you lose anything w the optic in vs HDMI (missing) ? I could see this paired w the Mon Mini and maybe a pair of subs? (More for better sound from your TV including playing Spotify thru the TV... like in a bedroom TV setup.) Or w Zu's DWX and a streamer? [edit: They do not recommend pairing w DW6 per their website.] On a related question... if you use your own DAC... does Analog In bypass this DAC? [edit: You compared it to Orchard's GaN amps... but what about VTV which IIRC does also offer tube input buffers for some of their amps. ] Thx
@@Jayiyagi The tube set the tone of the overal sound.....in general I am not a fan of JJ tubes as well as they are the only producer and creator of this tube type...close to a ECC182........I would modify and try to use other ( nos ) tubes......something like a E80CC or a 12BH7A........ But the standard version will; certainly suit and please most audiophiles at the given price.......itbshould be mentioned that the buyer would buy some spare sets of tubes at the same time of the purchase ! ( many do regret this when buying tube amplifiers and are faced with the problem when time has come to change the tubes ! )
I may or may not compare the two... Keep in mind that they are totally different in almost every way possible to begin with and TSA 75 being a solo amp will require pre-amp matching (which btw.... unless you are using a $500 pre... will be well past the price of the Billie amp) Like I said in the video, it depends on what direction you are going.
@@Jayiyagi My system pre-amps are a Pass XP-15 and XP-22 . I’m hoping that there will be a a reasonable amount of synergy between pre’s, the A75 and my Maggie 3.6R’s with a Carver True Sub which I’m powering with its internal 800 Watt amp. My beloved Audio Research VT-100 Mk III amp after 22 years needs possibly as much as $2000 in repairs which includes a full tube compliment replacement. I’m going to have it repaired then decide which of the two amplifiers remain in my system. I have an Adcom GFA 5400, a Nelson Pass design as a back up and it sounds pretty damn good in my system much to my surprise. Hope this gives you a decent idea of why I asked for this comparison.
Can somebody explain to me why this only has an MM and not MC phono stage? Do must people who use MC cartridges steer towards a separate pre and power amp? Is this not considered high-end enough?
In the same price range and the same idea of mixing tube amplification.... But with a complete different look how does it compare with the Advance Paris A10 ?
My first amplifier was Burson soloist 3xp (upgraded to v7 opamps). This was with your recommendation and i am happy. I am using gustard r26 dac. For desktop setup if you were to burson timekeeper how would you compare this unit. is this going to be a upgrade or side grade or different. if you can please give your own experience.
Any DAC experts who can tell me which dac is best of these? One is integrated in the new IOTAVX SA40, the other one is integrated inside the WIIM Streamer/dac Pro plus IOTA: CS4398 (24-Bit, 192 kHz) Wiim pro plus: AKM 4493SEQ
How would you compare it to the Vincent SV237Mkii integrated hybrid amp (bass speed, DAC, headphone out, mids, treble, just whatever you could think of basically)? How would you also describe the differences between the internals? The Vincent is much larger with seemingly more components and a big toroidal transformer for example.
Aha! Thank you for a great question. I think the Billie amps midrange is more tube like while the Vincent just simply has more drive and balls in the bass. While the Billie has a better soundstage and is a smaller unit, I'd have to give the win the more full size unit like the Vincent that has a more descent bass and tone control that works fabulously.
@@Jayiyagi Thank you very much for the answer! I hope you can check my last question, it's a bit longer though. So if I want the same big and punchy bass as my Vincent (or better) and keep most of the tubey characteristics - my only option is to go for the Starkrimson? But yet again, I would have to add a lot more money to the preamp tube section if I want to turn the Starkrimson into a hybrid that can come close to the Vincent, right? I'm trying to find a replacement for my Vincent, because it produces a lot of noise issues from time to time and I'm not sure if I should be disappointed in my integrated amplifier (whose purpose is to connect to surrounding devices basically, since it has a lot of inputs) which Vincent support says it probably picks up influences from nearby devices on my desk and that's why it has noise issues. Such irony. I'm just not sure if my only option is to sell my Vincent and buy something similar, because I don't understand how and why nearby devices interact negatively with tube/hybrid amplifiers and why that wouldn't be handled by the amplifier's hardware protections. Do you ever have noise issues with all your devices in your listening room? Otherwise, I love my Vincent amp, but sometimes it is unusable..
I sold the first version as it seemed under powered and the mids seemed a bit thin with slightly rolled off highs that lacked refinement. I changed the tubes with improved highs but just seemed to be lacking in the mids. I wonder how this compares to Thomas’ amps?
I guess I was ahead of time because I got myself (just before COVID) D power amp build on Ice modules and added decent tube pre amp. Then I quickly came to the conclusion that this combo is a keeper.
def one of the better looking tube amps for the price, tho for the price you could build your own with even higher level internals, point to point wiring etc etc...
Great review! I am very tempted to get this amplifier. Have been for a while. If I could only sell the extra amplifier I already have. I noticed you're saying 'in my opinion' a lot. Are people giving you flack saying you claim to be the last word on audio? Ridiculous, You are a subjective reviewer and that should be known by everybody who watches your reviews. We don't see too many measurements here! Keep up the good work! Update: One more thing. Some reviewers have mentioned an audible noise floor. What is your experience in this regard?
Nice review. On a separate note, it seems you prefer your AGD amps over the NAT. Is that the case? As someone who is considering both these amps, I’m curious what you think.
Currently run Billie MK2 with KLH Model 5, sounds pleasing but sometimes craving those concert level volumes. Mono block Schiit Vidar & Freya S combo would get me there... but how would a single Vidar - Freya S sound compared to Billie MK2?
I've been eyeing the Billie for a while now, Steve Huff mentioned there was a bit of background hiss with more sensitive speakers, did you notice that? Great review, also love that it's Canadian!
Looks well implemented. I just not sold on the D Class amp modules being sold for $2k and over. I prefer amps with linear power supplys and discrete componets for durability. I've seen Advance Paris has a similar concept with an amp configuration that i can see where my money is going.
Real high quality Tube amps sound amazing all these cheap hybrid gimmicky amps while some do sound good that's all they are a gimmick for a real tube amp the high voltages are gonna have to be present and the preamp and Poweramp section of the amplifier will employ tubes amazing the clarity and realism and how musical they sound
Well, hold on. I did the original post pointing out the price on the previous amp. My only beef was with the inclusion of “everyone.” If “someone” has that cash and can afford it then go ahead, and I hope they love it!
*Thanks for stopping by!*
Heaven11 Billie Amp Mk2 (black): heaven11audio.com/shop/billie-amp-brushed-black/?v=3e8d115eb4b3
Heaven11 Billie Amp Mk2 (silver): heaven11audio.com/shop/billie-amp-brushed-silver/?v=3e8d115eb4b3
Gear Mentioned in this video:
AGD Audions: th-cam.com/video/26bLvCAklHk/w-d-xo.htmlsi=3aWlfMK_5kaVPO0Q
link: agdproduction.com/product/audion/ref/NBTStudio/
Java HiFi Carbon: th-cam.com/video/bXzpe41ylBo/w-d-xo.html
link: www.javahifi.com/product-listing
Orchard Audio Starkrimson: th-cam.com/video/mf9w6ihQ-1U/w-d-xo.htmlsi=taUTe8yQCUmohIwK
link: orchardaudio.com/iyagi?nocache=1
ANK Mentor Pre-Amplifier: TBD
link: ankaudiokits.com/product/pre-amp-l5-mentor/
Heven11 Billie Amp Mk1: th-cam.com/video/rZd5lmR3m70/w-d-xo.htmlsi=6wnBHvTcBceZWsdd
link: No Longer Available
Speakers mentioned in this video:
Acoustic Zen Crescendo Mk2: th-cam.com/video/B4RYvKynbFc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=qaZdXIhRoYimQ4N7
link: acousticzen.com/crescendo
Totem Bison Twin Towers: th-cam.com/video/LaB_5A-8YAQ/w-d-xo.htmlsi=I2GrwjKWAVMd4RNj
link: totemacoustic.com/product/bison-twin-tower/
Buchardt S400 Mk2: th-cam.com/video/PJRBMCA3FzI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=J0G745ivv0drpviR
link: buchardtaudio.com/products/s400-mkii
Closer Acoustic Forlane: th-cam.com/video/CTFndPJnV28/w-d-xo.html
link: www.stereopolis.com/products/closer-acoustics-forlane-loudspeakers-pair
Joseph Crowe No. 1680: Video Coming Soon
link: josephcrowe.com/products/speaker-system-no-1681
Support on Patreon: www.patreon.com/jayiyagi
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Follow soundstage take 2 reviews: th-cam.com/play/PLPOzvlhtSqn5xdc__ftuSt4Rxy_wm5Af0.html
Speaker stands: amzn.to/3ssRhI3
Better speaker stands: solidsteel.it/my-product/ss-7-vintage-hi-fi-speaker-stands/
acoustic panels I use: ua-acoustics.com/
acoustic curtain: amzn.to/31d1zAM
BDI Cabinet I use: bit.ly/2OJRwQQ
amzn.to/3chBuFZ
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0:00 Introducing The Billie Amp Mk2
5:47 Billie Amp Mk2 Sound Review
9:08 Billie Amp Mk2 VS GanFet Amplifiers
Has anyone swapped out the tubes for 12AU7's? I looked up the ECC99 tube online and JJ are the only ones making these. However, on the Heaven 11 website, under the specs listing, it states that you can use 12BH7 or 12AU7 tubes. I just so happen to have 12AU7 tubes in my possession, so it made me wonder how the unit would sound compared to the ECC99 tubes?
I'm glad you got around to reviewing this piece because I do remember how well you liked the original Billie.
Everyone I know who has reviewed this piece seems to really like its sound.
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My biggest disappointment with integrated amplifiers, and this is exhibit A, is the seemingly irresistible inclusion of DACs, phono stages, streamers, etc.
The only component I have owned that does everything good/great is the Technics SU-GX70-K Network Audio Amplifier
It is a digital amplifier that converts analog to digital and back again at the output level and it is excellent with digital sources as well l so I don’t use my stand-alone DACs
As I understand it, it is not Class A or B or D
It has a nice streamer built in
It does some room correction
It has an excellent MM phono stage which is no surprise for Technics
The black unit goes for $1,500
Not a lot of power 80/40 watts but all my speakers can be run off low power SE tube amplification so it is a lot of power for me
Not trying to push in on the Billie, but I would like to get it for $1,500 or less as a power amplifier and eliminate crap “features”
no audiophile worth his salt would use a internal DAC
@@xstensl8823I think that would depend on the quality of the integrated as well as the stand alone Dac one would be comparing it to.
@@NosEL34 Well, some one has a like of sense. Thank you. I've got no issue with my Rogue Audio SphinxV3 hybrid-integrated. It doesn't have a DAC inside (I don't use an external DAC) but it has a very high quality phono stage.
@@xstensl8823you should hear the internal dac in a Hegel h600
What make you pick the Heaven 11 Mk2 over the Vicent SV 267 Mk2 that you picked as integrated amp of the year for 2022 if the difference in price is closer than $2000 vs $3000?
13k for a AMP is just dumb do a blind test against a AMP that costs 1k i bet you wont notice the difference
It would been better if it was omitted Built In DAC (Digital Inputs) and focus on Analog In only and reduce the price and let the buyer put the money saved onto separate DAC. Great design and concept though. Maybe next version would be the one. :)
Thanks Jay. I have a separates rig too and this is my first integrated in 20 years. Been driving my Buchardt 400mk2z and KEFls50metas (w/sub) with the Billie2 + an Ares2 DAC. Using the additional gold tube option and have been really enjoying the synergy & performance.
As the pre-amp seems to be the star, it would be interesting to connect Ganfet AGD Audion MkIII's via the pre outputs on the Billy as a pre-amp only and compare the sound to the internal Ice outputs.
I have the first version and its excellent sounding! Tubes with a good class d amp is a match made in heaven!
Hi Jay, how about recommending top 3 speakers that pair well with the Billie, and are appropriate for this amp. I do value your experience. Thanks
Very nice. If you were to choose between this and the Willsenton R800i, which one? Or for more tube preamp sound, what would better this? Thanks
I need to compare Billy Badass vs Schiit Combo Freya Plus /vidar2 !! I been buying amps from $500-3kU.S. since 1989 and i spent lots of time with those amps from 70s era until today ! ! Thanks Jay 🇺🇸 vs 🇨🇦 Lets go !!
For a bit more you have the Unity Atom all in one. In my view just forget them all and save up to JR amps or the Sugden A21 or Galion ts a20 or SE Tube amps such as the NAT amps 🤔 As with the Ares dac better take a look at the Cyan 2 dac or FX Tube Glass dac 🤔
Good afternoon ☕️
$13k won’t even cover the GST on the new Gryphon 333 ..so there’s a scale to be sure.
The OG Billie was great ..this should prove interesting 🧐
Have a great CANADA Day 🇨🇦
Jay, what's coming up for your 100K subscribership?!?😮🎉
;)
😊 Great rundown Jay! Such a beautiful piece of kit
Unfortunately they dont recommend with high impedance speakers and specifically mention the Zu (I have DWX Zu) Cant have everything I guess. It's fine for 99% of the people out there.
Zu dwx eehhh??? How you feel about yours? Base model? I'm chasing Soundstage, imaging and bass performance.
@@HaamRadio54 .
A reminder for the Noobs. Any speakers' presentation in terms of soundstage, imaging and bass performance is wholly dependent on the recording. No speaker can give what isn't there. There is no stereo imaging from a mono recording, as an extreme example. And then there's all the electronics in between ready to distort the original.
@@HaamRadio54 I found a used pair of blue DWX Superbly and they blew me away with presenting a natural soundstage experience, presentation size and tonality. I sold Dynaudio Special 40s and Totem Signature ones after hearing the Iu. I don't even have them placed ideally being on a shelf, a very secure one but still not on stands. I have them upside down. The front end is really good. Auralic streamer, Rogue preamp and Belles mono amps Also an Audiolab 9000 cd. Cant recommend them highly enough. Probably a good budget match with the ZU would be a used Unicorn Primo integrated amp for about a grand. Is the Superbly worth it? Don't know. I haven't heard the standard unit. Check out Nemo's review. He loved them with a Pathos integrated amp.
@@TriAmpHiFiI have found the biggest influence on depth of image and spatial cues are the speakers ability to have minimal phase shift through the mid band, 10 -15 degrees at most
@@TriAmpHiFiif disagree slightly, as you could have a speaker and room placements etc that fiddle with sound and reflections that create some "soundstage and imaging". Highlighting certain frequencies or having odd resonance could also do it. Of course such things may not be ideal or realistic
Damn no HDMI ARC/E-ARC. This would have been perfect for a sound bar replacement and the lack of USB input makes it harder to be a desktop/near-field integrated amp given its size. The price point is kind of weird as well. Priced higher than a desktop amp but less than Full Featured dedicated Integrated for a main setup. I would like to see a linear toroidal power supply, upgraded DAC and E-ARC HDMI input even if the chassis would have to be larger to make these features available.
If designed well, there is precisely zero downside with a good smps and class d. Zero benefit to a bigger heavier more expensive linear toroidal power supply. Audiophile wives tale lives on.
@@Artcore103 I disagree at 3:46 the camera is picking up voltage ripple through the tube glow , Yes I know the frame-rate is exaggerating the ripple but you can see it and I am sure this ripple effects the sound.
Use optical…
I have a Gilly amp. In England we are lucky and can go to Twineham Audio and get Gilly to either do a custom build or get an existing amp modded (I have a Marantz PM45 that is so much better than the KI Signature version)
03:10 a sexy box? Really? What do you possibly find “sexy” about this box?
looks good, though JJ does not make the cut.... look for NOS slyvannia or siemans... Ampex if you are very financially sound
I am sure you can tube roll to maximize performance and taste but I just did not have the time to test every tube with every speaker i've tried
@@Jayiyagi agreed. It was a generalized statement. Synergy takes time
You are dead wrong in this instance
Could have sworn this was a kit amp judging off the pic alone
I would love to see you review Unison Research Unico hybrid amplifiers and compare them to this one (and others), since they are in similar price range! Zero Fidelity reviewed the Unico Primo and he only said good things about it, so I believe they will compete. Also, there is the newer Unico Due, so I believe you should give that one a try! Unico amplifiers don't have much reviews online, so that would be beneficial.
ICEpower 200AS2 modules are some of the worst performing class D amplifiers. Stick to Hypex or Purifi.
Or custom GAN modules developed by classdaudio
No trigger input? I also like a gain input knob.
My NAD C298 and Parasound 2125V2 have these.
Great review, and great to see such sweet combinations of a tube pre and class d power section. Kind of a side note, but would love your impressions of the latest Hypex offerings. In particular the Nilai. Probably not the same echelon as Starkrimson, but is supposed to be a VERY special amp 🙏🏼
Swapping that 3.5mm headphone jack out for a proper 6.3mm jack would be a great upgrade.
You don't have to say 'in my opinion'. It's your channel and everything you say is your opinion by definition. Unless you're quoting someone.
Add an xlr input and it's the amp that I would buy...
How would you compare this to the Hegel h190?
As though we can chose between sound quality and budget ! Not really isn't it at least for most of us ! When I watch all these reviews, excellence goes to more money each time. Thing like "it is not fair to compare this unit at 2k with another one at 15K", this is sickening really.....just compare their sound qualities objectively, not their luxury aspect.
This amp is the future of hifi,the combination of class D and Tubes,i had in the past a Bel Canto class D amp with a Icon audio tube pre-amp,the best sound i ever had.
try a class A with tube pre.. i had bel canto monos, with the tube pre.. it was good... though nothing like a solid state class A.. 25 wpc is more than adequate..
Which model of the Bel canto did you have ?
@@auggysimcitywhat speaker did u use to test the 25 watt class A amp?
What would anyone still use micro USB
How do you think this would mate with my modded Magnapan .7 speakers (with fuses removed)? I know you don't my room, etc., but in general broad strokes, does this provide enough 'ommph' to power the Maggies which need power and high current? Also, while I am still mainly a turntable guy, I do want an optimized DAC for this unit. What budget oriented DAC do you recommend?
I wouldn’t pair Maggie’s with Class D unless you’re looking at GAN stages.
Good review.
It looks like they were aiming for a price point.
In terms of using this as a 2.1 or 2.2 channel amp for a TV... do you lose anything w the optic in vs HDMI (missing) ? I could see this paired w the Mon Mini and maybe a pair of subs?
(More for better sound from your TV including playing Spotify thru the TV... like in a bedroom TV setup.)
Or w Zu's DWX and a streamer?
[edit: They do not recommend pairing w DW6 per their website.]
On a related question... if you use your own DAC... does Analog In bypass this DAC?
[edit: You compared it to Orchard's GaN amps... but what about VTV which IIRC does also offer tube input buffers for some of their amps. ]
Thx
Interesting to hear you speak so positively of an ICE module based amp!
Yea I’m not usually a fan of ice modules even with tube pre but this ones done really well for a very reasonable price imho
@@Jayiyagi The tube set the tone of the overal sound.....in general I am not a fan of JJ tubes as well as they are the only producer and creator of this tube type...close to a ECC182........I would modify and try to use other ( nos ) tubes......something like a E80CC or a 12BH7A........
But the standard version will; certainly suit and please most audiophiles at the given price.......itbshould be mentioned that the buyer would buy some spare sets of tubes at the same time of the purchase ! ( many do regret this when buying tube amplifiers and are faced with the problem when time has come to change the tubes ! )
@@frankgeeraerts6243 Gold Lions sound great with the Billie :)
Hope you’re doing an addendum to this review comparing the Heaven 11 to the Galion TS A75
I may or may not compare the two... Keep in mind that they are totally different in almost every way possible to begin with and TSA 75 being a solo amp will require pre-amp matching (which btw.... unless you are using a $500 pre... will be well past the price of the Billie amp) Like I said in the video, it depends on what direction you are going.
@@Jayiyagi My system pre-amps are a Pass XP-15 and XP-22 . I’m hoping that there will be a a reasonable amount of synergy between pre’s, the A75 and my Maggie 3.6R’s with a Carver True Sub which I’m powering with its internal 800 Watt amp. My beloved Audio Research VT-100 Mk III amp after 22 years needs possibly as much as $2000 in repairs which includes a full tube compliment replacement. I’m going to have it repaired then decide which of the two amplifiers remain in my system. I have an Adcom GFA 5400, a Nelson Pass design as a back up and it sounds pretty damn good in my system much to my surprise. Hope this gives you a decent idea of why I asked for this comparison.
That $13k amp looks like someones custom carbon fibre wrapped xbox which you then face the wrong way (built with more premium materials of course)
Wonder why they didn’t go the GanFet route? Great video sir!!!
One of the downsides with Ganfet is that its more expensive currently
Price!!!
There are builders in the U.S. that are developing gan fet amps at affordable prices. VTV for example.
Just got better? The MK2 is over a year old. You better review MK3 (when it’s ready).
Can somebody explain to me why this only has an MM and not MC phono stage? Do must people who use MC cartridges steer towards a separate pre and power amp? Is this not considered high-end enough?
Hi Jay, How does it do with textures? Some Tube amps smooth textures over too much for my liking.
Wish this had USB input and maybe a version 3 with purify 400 amps would totally pay more for that too
In the same price range and the same idea of mixing tube amplification.... But with a complete different look how does it compare with the Advance Paris A10 ?
I have not reviewed any Advance Paris amps yet but I am looking forward to it
My first amplifier was Burson soloist 3xp (upgraded to v7 opamps). This was with your recommendation and i am happy. I am using gustard r26 dac. For desktop setup if you were to burson timekeeper how would you compare this unit. is this going to be a upgrade or side grade or different. if you can please give your own experience.
Any DAC experts who can tell me which dac is best of these?
One is integrated in the new IOTAVX SA40, the other one is integrated inside the WIIM Streamer/dac Pro plus
IOTA: CS4398 (24-Bit, 192 kHz)
Wiim pro plus: AKM 4493SEQ
How does this compare to the Vincent SV-700 ?
How would you compare it to the Vincent SV237Mkii integrated hybrid amp (bass speed, DAC, headphone out, mids, treble, just whatever you could think of basically)? How would you also describe the differences between the internals? The Vincent is much larger with seemingly more components and a big toroidal transformer for example.
Aha! Thank you for a great question. I think the Billie amps midrange is more tube like while the Vincent just simply has more drive and balls in the bass. While the Billie has a better soundstage and is a smaller unit, I'd have to give the win the more full size unit like the Vincent that has a more descent bass and tone control that works fabulously.
@@Jayiyagi Thank you very much for the answer! I hope you can check my last question, it's a bit longer though.
So if I want the same big and punchy bass as my Vincent (or better) and keep most of the tubey characteristics - my only option is to go for the Starkrimson? But yet again, I would have to add a lot more money to the preamp tube section if I want to turn the Starkrimson into a hybrid that can come close to the Vincent, right?
I'm trying to find a replacement for my Vincent, because it produces a lot of noise issues from time to time and I'm not sure if I should be disappointed in my integrated amplifier (whose purpose is to connect to surrounding devices basically, since it has a lot of inputs) which Vincent support says it probably picks up influences from nearby devices on my desk and that's why it has noise issues. Such irony. I'm just not sure if my only option is to sell my Vincent and buy something similar, because I don't understand how and why nearby devices interact negatively with tube/hybrid amplifiers and why that wouldn't be handled by the amplifier's hardware protections. Do you ever have noise issues with all your devices in your listening room? Otherwise, I love my Vincent amp, but sometimes it is unusable..
Would like to hear your review of preferred Electrostatic Headphones. They are quite rare to find, however provide superb reproduction.
I sold the first version as it seemed under powered and the mids seemed a bit thin with slightly rolled off highs that lacked refinement. I changed the tubes with improved highs but just seemed to be lacking in the mids. I wonder how this compares to Thomas’ amps?
I guess I was ahead of time because I got myself (just before COVID) D power amp build on Ice modules and added decent tube pre amp. Then I quickly came to the conclusion that this combo is a keeper.
I like the look and versatility. I'm curious to know what you think of the outlaw rr2160. To me, that's the amp every body need.
Agree, silly.
def one of the better looking tube amps for the price, tho for the price you could build your own with even higher level internals, point to point wiring etc etc...
Meaty,textured, grained? I'd hate to hear the chap review whiskey 😂
Does anyone make anything with four straight forward analog inputs?
If I get another amp ( still enjoying my Willsenton R8 ) it’s gonna be this one. Love the design
Do you think the Billie MK2 and Supermon minis would be a good pairing for a small desktop system?
Ye that would be pretty dope
Would be nice if they also made a 17 inch wide model.
I always feel the Heaven11 Billie Amp Mk2's appearance is copied from Elekit 22 [tu: tu:]
Great review! I am very tempted to get this amplifier. Have been for a while. If I could only sell the extra amplifier I already have. I noticed you're saying 'in my opinion' a lot. Are people giving you flack saying you claim to be the last word on audio? Ridiculous, You are a subjective reviewer and that should be known by everybody who watches your reviews. We don't see too many measurements here! Keep up the good work!
Update: One more thing. Some reviewers have mentioned an audible noise floor. What is your experience in this regard?
I did not notice any audible noise floor
This or vincent sv-237 mkii?
reviewing this unit with the tube upgrade?
Bonjour Jay, je pense qu’Itaï va être content de votre présentation.
Nice review. On a separate note, it seems you prefer your AGD amps over the NAT. Is that the case? As someone who is considering both these amps, I’m curious what you think.
Each has its own thing that its good at. I love the NATs
Still loving the mk 1 version ❤
Make the DAC optional.
Currently run Billie MK2 with KLH Model 5, sounds pleasing but sometimes craving those concert level volumes. Mono block Schiit Vidar & Freya S combo would get me there... but how would a single Vidar - Freya S sound compared to Billie MK2?
What about adding a power-amp to the Billie? I’m thinking about getting a tube pre-amp to add to my C298 to drive my 5’s
It isn't loud enough? I'm surprises but pleased to have the info.
Absolutely correct regarding the dac in this unit
You think Billie Amp Mk2 will work great with Sonus Faber Lumina II Amator?
Yes I think it would be a great match. I've tried the mk1 with it. It was quite good but I can only imagine its better with the mk2
@@Jayiyagi thank you! I really appreciate the response! 🙏
It does not have a ''price point'' it has a price.
Hello Jays, does the Amplifer work with my Magnepan? or is the Hegel better? Greatings from Germany
Hey! While this integrated amp would power the maggies, I still think the synergy between hegel and maggies are just simply better
@@Jayiyagi Thanks
Next time I am in your area, Can I come over?? 🎉
partay?
@@Jayiyagi umm sure… but seriously next time im there to visit the Maco folks, if your up for it, I’d love to hear your room. No pressure.
What is the cd player shown?
Shanling
Thank you
I've been eyeing the Billie for a while now, Steve Huff mentioned there was a bit of background hiss with more sensitive speakers, did you notice that? Great review, also love that it's Canadian!
nope did not notice that. I don't really put my ears to the tweeter. If its not obvious from my listening position... its fine
@@Jayiyagi Perfect, thanks Jay!
He had some major grounding issues in his home, I have one and ZERO noise here - it is an AMAZING amp!
The tubes used probably play a part as to how much noise floor you hear
Any piece that doesn’t have HDMI E-Arc input is behind in the times. 😊
what does that ACTUALLY get you? In reality?
Looks well implemented. I just not sold on the D Class amp modules being sold for $2k and over. I prefer amps with linear power supplys and discrete componets for durability. I've seen Advance Paris has a similar concept with an amp configuration that i can see where my money is going.
Bro...witz about headphones amplifier?
Love you man, script more!
This Amp changes everything as we know it!!!!!!!!! A fundamental change and a Game-Changer!
Relax buddy. This amp is nothing special.
I don't buy sound deforming amplifiers. Tube amps are not what I want.
What if I told you tubes can be sound enhancing?
Was someone forcing you to get a tube amp?
@@marcmarcello981 Well he is commenting because he watched the Video, Did you watch it?
Real high quality Tube amps sound amazing all these cheap hybrid gimmicky amps while some do sound good that's all they are a gimmick for a real tube amp the high voltages are gonna have to be present and the preamp and Poweramp section of the amplifier will employ tubes amazing the clarity and realism and how musical they sound
Starship SpaceX is the spacecraft Everyone been waiting for .. 500,000,000.. I’m a millennial- Math is racist.. such a cheap lazy excuse
No amp is worth 13 grand
Really?? According to your wallet? 😂 How much is your car worth?
Why would you cap a pursuit of passion at such a low bar?
@@erics.411313 grand for a piece of audio equipment is not a low bar. You're delusional and out of touch.
My dad spent 30k on a new moddifed Harley!! And boy it's been a pos !! I'd take a $30k hifi anyway over a dam Harley that my Supra can outrun badly !!
Well, hold on. I did the original post pointing out the price on the previous amp. My only beef was with the inclusion of “everyone.” If “someone” has that cash and can afford it then go ahead, and I hope they love it!