OCTAVE v80se w/SBB and JADIS I-50

Hello  Hamburger,
IMO you can't go wrong with either of these amplifiers. I haven't heard these specific models but have listened to other amplifiers of both brands. They both sound exceptionally good, are very well built and also reflect excellent engineering. Speaking in general terms the Octave may be just a "bit" more neutral yet very musically engaging, certainly not clinical/analytical.  The Jadis I've heard were full bodied, a "bit" warmer and harmonically rich yet not coming across as colored, nope! Very natural? Yes!

The Octave is higher power at 150 watts per channel class A/B. Jadis is 50 watts per channel class A.  The Jadis amplifier is 20 pounds heavier and this is usually indicative of bigger and very stout transformers(power and output types). Jadis in particular is renown for the quality of their transformers(which they wind themselves). No doubt Octave has high quality transformers, It goes without saying that if at all possible audition both amplifiers.


I sincerely believe that you'd be quite happy with either of them. The Jadis IMO has a way of reproducing music in a most involving and beautiful fashion. 50 watts of pure class A from this company is very enticing.

Good Luck,
Charles,

I agree with Charles but would like to add the Soft start with output tube protection circuit is second to none. Octave also make their own transformers. They did start off a a transformer company (so they do know a lot when it comes to transformers). Biasing is also super simple and being a fixed bias you don't NEED matched tubes (but they do sound nicer when matched). 

No doubt that both are terrific choices and a direct comparison would be quite a treat. Jadis does have a unique captivating and engaging sound.  Obviously just a personal impression on my part. 
Charles 

French always do things differently, whether you like it or not or both is another matter. Jadis has a cult following. They also look like French royalty, the royalty which is no more there but so longed for.

Thank you for all your advice.
I forgot about the Class A and Class A/B differences of the 2 amps.  And the simpler biasing of the Octave.  I have heard the Jadis i-50.  I will try to get a chance to listen to the Octave soon.