Loftin-White

Loftin-White Tube Amplifier – SE Class A Stereo Amplifier

The Loftin-White is an outstanding SE (Single-Ended) Class A stereo tube amplifier, designed using the Loftin-White circuit topology (read more in our blog). This exclusive, Latvian-made amplifier is 100% handcrafted and built as a one-of-a-kind unit, making it a true collector’s gem for music enthusiasts.

The amplifier is constructed using point-to-point wiring technology, ensuring exceptional sound quality with minimal interference. The chassis is crafted from solid oak wood, elegantly integrated with metal details, combining natural aesthetics with premium materials.

Construction:

• Chassis: Made from solid oak wood and plywood, merging the natural beauty of wood with the elegance of metal elements for a classic and durable design.
• Tubes:
  • Power stage: two 6C4C tubes – renowned for their musical character, revealing music with both softness and power at the same time. The 6C4C is a directly heated triode (DHT) developed and manufactured during the Soviet era. It was designed as an analogue of the Western 2A3 tube, one of the most iconic audio triodes. These tubes were produced in the USSR from the mid-20th century (approximately from the 1950s) until the 1980s, mainly in factories in Moscow and other Soviet republics. Today, the 6C4C is highly regarded among audiophiles worldwide as one of the classic tubes for building high-quality audio amplifiers (Comparison of Power Triodes AD1, Ed, and 6S4S). This tube is known for its warm, rich and natural sound, making it a popular choice for Single-Ended (SE) Class A amplifiers. The sound of the 6C4C is soft, musical and detailed, with excellent midrange reproduction and a low noise floor.
    
  • Preamp stage: two 6Г2 pentode tubes - equivalent to EF86, commonly found in vintage radios and audio equipment. These tubes provide stable and linear signal amplification, making them ideal for gain stages in SE and Push-Pull (PP) amplifiers. The 6Г2 tubes excel in delivering detailed high-frequency reproduction, ensuring crystal-clear and expressive sound.
  • Rectifier: one BO188 tube (kenotron) - used in the power supply section, delivering stable and clean DC voltage to the tubes. Compared to solid-state rectifiers, tube rectifiers help reduce power supply noise, enhancing overall sound quality. The BO188 minimizes electrical interference and ripple, ensuring a stable voltage supply, which is essential for the amplifier’s sonic performance.

Technical Specifications:

• Output power: 2 x 3W – suitable for small to medium-sized rooms with high-sensitivity speakers.
• Dimensions: Width: 37 cm, Height: 18 cm, Depth: 46 cm.
• Weight: 22 kg, providing stability and vibration reduction.

Sound Quality:

The Loftin-White amplifier is designed to deliver a warm, natural sound with outstanding clarity and musicality. The 6C4C power tubes produce a smooth, rich tone, while the 6Г2 preamp pentodes ensure precise signal amplification. The BO188 rectifier tube contributes to a clean and stable power supply, enhancing the overall audio performance. Together, these components create a harmonious and immersive listening experience, perfect for audiophiles and high-end tube audio systems.

Overall Impression:

The Loftin-White amplifier is a masterpiece, crafted for true audiophile enthusiasts who appreciate authentic, natural, and detailed sound. Its meticulous handcrafted construction and premium-quality components guarantee an exceptional listening experience while adding a touch of timeless elegance to any interior.

Key Specifications:

• Technology: SE Class A Stereo Amplifier
• Assembly method: Point-to-point wiring
• Materials: Solid oak wood & plywood
• Tubes: 2 x 6C4C, 2 x 6Г2, 1 x BO188
• Output Power: 2 x 3W
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 37 x 18 x 46 cm
• Weight: 22 kg