Synthesis Roma 510AC Valve Amplifier

Synthesis Roma 510AC valve amplifier is the most powerful integrated model in the Roma range, featuring KT88 rather than EL34 as in the Roma 96 DC+ and Roma 753AC models, and delivers 80W per channel with incredible musicality.

This model features a pair of matched KT88 output valves are driven by an EC88 preamp valve. The output transformers are made in-house and use modern materials so can outperform many of the older designs.

Roma is created by Synthesis, who specialise in high-end valve equipment with modern Italian design. Experience music with all of the emotion, for an incredibly moving experience.

High end design

The 510AC makes sound quality a priority. The ECC82 dual triode preamp valves have a DC stabilised heater supply. Valves heaters normally have a 6.3V AC supply, however this can introduce hum and noise. Consequently, the 510AC has a well smoothed DC supply.

Another issue with amplifier design can be mechanical and electrical noise from transformers. To avoid this the transformers have a very rigid mounting. Additionally, all the connectors are gold plated to reduce resistance and tarnishing.

Finally, only premium components are used resulting in a purity of voice that is simply stunning. So why is the output transformer important?

Specially designed output transformers

Valves work by heating a cathode. This then emits electrons. Inside the glass envelope of the valve, an anode is used to attract the electrons. This has a positive charge, in the order of several hundred volts. To control the current flow a negatively charged grid is inserted between the cathode and anode. Varying the signal on the grid creates a correspondingly larger voltage on the output.

The output transformer provides the interface between the output of the KT88’s and the speaker. Modern materials have improved the performance of transformers resulting in better frequency response and improved reliability. For instance, the core is now made of high grade iron silicon and the quality of the copper wire is much better with lower resistance and higher purity.

Why we love valve amplifiers

Valves were once the only way of amplifying a signal. That was until 1947 when transistors were invented, although valves were still used in audio and TV equipment well into the 1970’s. Valves fell out of favour as transistors took over.

However, they always maintained a following and are popular in high-end amplifiers. There are a few reasons for this, one is that valve amplifiers look amazing. Another is the “warm” sound. Moreover, valves run at a high voltage which results in a lower current in the output stages. As a result, the loading on the power supply is less. This leads to less noise and hum.

Valves are also inherently linear, so they do not produce intermodulation distortion and have a smoother sound.

Who are Synthesis?

Synthesis has been making high-end valve equipment for over thirty years. Their ethos is to make valve audio equipment with no compromise. They produce some unusual equipment, for example, a CD player with a valve output. They also provide a choice of built-in DAC or pure analogue integrated amplifiers. There is sure to be one for any occasion.