Puresound 2A3 Integrated Valve Amplifier
The Puresound 2A3 is a directly heated triode integrated amplifier designed to deliver the classic valve sound with improved power and control. Using a push-pull 2A3 output stage, it combines tonal richness with greater drive capability than many traditional triode designs.
Key features:
• integrated valve amplifier
• 2A3 directly heated triode output stage
• push-pull Class A design
• 18W per channel output
• 3 x line inputs
• ALPS “Blue Velvet” volume control
• configurable 4Ω / 8Ω speaker outputs
• can be used as a power amplifier
Design and performance:
The amplifier is built around the 2A3 triode, a valve known for its linearity and natural tonal character. Unlike lower-powered single-ended designs, the push-pull configuration here provides increased output and better speaker control while retaining the signature triode sound.
A choke-loaded driver stage allows the 6SN7 valves to deliver a full and stable signal to the output stage. This approach improves tonal depth and dynamic expression, giving instruments a strong sense of body and presence.
Materials and construction:
• 2A3 output valves
• 6SN7 driver valves
• twin valve rectifiers
• choke-smoothed power supply
• SCR polypropylene capacitors
• selected carbon film resistors
The power supply uses twin valve rectifiers with choke smoothing, helping to maintain stability and reduce noise under varying signal demands.
Sound characteristics:
• rich, holographic soundstage
• strong midrange presence with natural tone
• improved bass control compared to typical triode designs
• high level of detail and texture
• engaging, immersive presentation
The 2A3 design is known for its ability to preserve musical structure and emotion, offering a highly involving listening experience.
Build and usability:
The amplifier includes three line inputs for system flexibility and uses a high-quality ALPS Blue Velvet potentiometer for volume control. It can also function as a standalone power amplifier when the volume is set to maximum.
A protective valve cage is included for safety where required.
Specifications:
• power output: 18W per channel
• output valves: 2A3 (push-pull)
• driver valves: 6SN7
• inputs: 3 x RCA
• speaker outputs: 4Ω / 8Ω selectable
Brand and design:
Puresound is a UK-based manufacturer focused on delivering high-performance valve amplification. The amplifier is designed by Guy Seargent, whose experience spans Audio Innovations, Voyd, Heybrook, JPW, and training in Japan with Audio Note / Kondo.
Note:
The Puresound 2A3 is best suited to medium to high sensitivity loudspeakers (around 88dB and above) to achieve optimal performance.
