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Ordered a Willsenton R300

Everything I have read about this 300b tube amp has been very positive, particularly Steve Huff's review on his website.  I have always thought I would love the sound of 300b tubes and this is my chance to get one for a very modest price.  It ought to drive my Spatial Audio M4 Triode Masters very nicely.  I will report back my impressions of the amp when it is fully revealed to me. 

whitestix
abd1
203 posts
 

Does anyone know if the R300 uses any negative feedback?

Great to hear Don is developing a 300b amp. I'm very interested in this amp and hope it comes to market.

Decware is also developing a 300b amp. I put a deposit on one but might be a few years. 

whitestix OP
762 posts
 

I was informed that the amp would arrive at the end of November, but it actually showed up today!  I have it connected to my Gallo Strada's playing an FM jazz station.  The amp is a heavy beast and the fit and finish seems first rate, particularly at this price point; it looks just beautiful. The pots turn with a firm ease.  It has 4, 8 and 16 ohm taps.  It was double-packaged with good foam around it.  It comes with very good instructions.

Right out of the box, I was enveloped with a warm and luscious sound with a sweet sense of immediacy to the music.  Now I will admit that I have liked most amps I have owned, but moved up or sideways from them.  However, this is exactly the sound I was hoping for so perhaps I am hearing what I seek to hear.  It likely needs plenty of hours to run in, but rarely have I heard brand new amps sound this good right out of the box.  This doesn't sound like my Wells Audio Immorata SS amp or Don Sachs' tube amp at all... such a nice midrange and warm sound.  More in due time. 

garyalex
117 posts
 

whitestix - that's great news.  Hopefully this will be one of those equipment changes that results in a real improvement, as opposed to one of those that over the course of time proves to be different but not necessarily better.  I've had my share of those.  Enjoy your amp.

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@whitestix 

Congratulations!!!

You have been introduced to the unique and beautiful natural sound of the iconic 300b tube as well as SET simple and pure sounding circuits.The more efficient the speakers, the better the results.

Charles

whitestix OP
762 posts
 

Thanks for the encouragement, Charles.  One potential limitation is the modest output of the amp.  I can almost turn it WFO with my Gallo Stradas which are 87 db sensititive and I could possibly bear it a bit louder (briefly), but still pretty much wide open, the speakers do not distort.  My Spatial M4 Triode Masters will be an easier load to drive.  One other thing.  The amp runs really hot so one needs plenty of space around the amp to allow it to dissipate the heat. 

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