Amp/Preamp Asylum: REVIEW: Velleman K4040 Amplifier (Tube) by martinr@ukonline.co.uk

Model:	K4040
Category:	Amplifier (Tube)
Suggested Retail Price:	$1300
Description:	90 wpc stereo tube amp
Manufacturer URL:	Velleman
Model Picture:	View

Review by martinr@ukonline.co.uk ( A ) on December 06, 2006 at 05:54:39
IP Address: 194.138.18.132

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Velleman K4040: Mine was supplied with a 220v power tranny. In the UK we have 240v. And this caused the premature demise of many EL34's and their respective cathode resistors! After much investigation (with help from the yahoo groups BJOForum), the power transformer was found to be the cause of the problems - and expense.
But fair play to Velleman, some 6 years after purchase, they replaced the output transformers and the power transformers free of charge.
This amplifier has to be one of the best sounding amps I have heard. Mellow bass, punchy mids and clear highs. Naturally I replaced the original EL34's with a better product. The next step is to follow a KT88 conversion and swap out the filter capacitors.
Now that it no longer erupts in a firework display, my wife is no longer afraid of it and loves to wind up her Meat loaf on it!
One thing to bear in mind, should you move the amp, please ensure the bottoms of the output transformers do not come into contact with the chassis. This happened on mine as it has been moved a few times and the varnish insulation got damaged, thus requiring new output trannies. Fortunately Velleman honoured a warranty!

Product Weakness: Non tube option would be good!
Product Strengths: Very good value for money. Clear noise free amplification

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Velleman K4040
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Sony STR D-930
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	CD and Wurlitzer 2104 jukebox!
Speakers:	Bose
Cables/Interconnects:	Litz
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	Rock, R&B, Rock 'n' Roll
Room Comments/Treatments:	Solid oak floor, minimal soft furnishings
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	Non tube option would be good!
Product Strengths:	Very good value for money. Clear noise free amplification