PLINIUS SA-103

Second-hand. In excellent conditions. No visible signs of wear. Comes with manual and original packaging.

The Plinius SA-103 is a solid-state stereo power amplifier featuring a sophisticated Class A configuration, designed to deliver exceptional performance and uncompromising sound quality. It provides 125 watts per channel at 8 ohms and 220 watts per channel at 4 ohms, with the option to be configured in mono mode, unleashing an impressive 400 watts at 8 ohms.

A rear panel selector knob allows easy switching between different operating modes: RCA stereo, RCA mono, balanced stereo, or balanced mono. In fully balanced mono mode, the SA-103 ensures the purest signal path from input to output. The rear panel also features four pairs of speaker binding posts, enabling bi-wiring for optimal signal management. Every internal component is carefully selected, including Siltech high-quality wiring, ensuring a refined sound with minimal interference.

The Plinius SA-103 masterfully blends robustness and elegance. Its satin-finished aluminum front panel offers a sophisticated aesthetic, while the solid aluminum top cover guarantees durability and structural integrity. Two large front handles, paired with two rear handles, enhance its practicality, making it easier to position despite its substantial 38 kg weight.

One of its most distinctive design elements is its heat sinks, which extend gracefully from the sides, resembling the iconic Silver Fern of New Zealand. Not only do these heat sinks add a modern and refined look, but they also maximize heat dissipation, ensuring optimal cooling and stable performance, a crucial aspect for Class A amplification.

Setting up the Plinius SA-103 is intuitive. Once connected to the speakers and the desired mode selected, the amplifier powers on in silent standby mode. The Mute button, located on the front panel, activates Class A/B mode. However, the amplifier reaches its full potential when switching to Class A mode, unlocking a pure, detailed, and harmonically rich sound.

Plinius recommends leaving the amplifier powered on continuously, keeping it in Class A/B mode when idle to optimize capacitor warming and reduce the time needed to reach ideal operating conditions. An integrated timer allows automatic switching from Class A to Class A/B after 15, 30, or 60 minutes of inactivity, helping to reduce energy consumption and heat dissipation.

The Plinius SA-103 delivers a natural and neutral sound, with a perfectly balanced musical character. Bass frequencies are deep and well-controlled, while the midrange and high frequencies remain open, detailed, and free from artificial coloration. With its high power output and current capacity, this amplifier effortlessly drives even the most demanding speakers, ensuring an extraordinary listening experience.

Technical specifications:

• Type: Solid-state two-channel power amplifier
• Operating Modes: Class A or Class A/B
• Maximum Output Power (both channels, 20Hz–20kHz, THD <0.05%)

  • 125 W per channel at 8 Ohms (21 dBW)

  • 220 W per channel at 4 Ohms (20.4 dBW)

  • In mono bridge mode:

    • 400 W at 8 Ohms (26 dBW)

    • 730 W at 4 Ohms (25.6 dBW)

• Frequency Response: 20Hz–20kHz ±0.2 dB; 0 dB at 1Hz, -3 dB at 70kHz
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): Typically <0.05% at rated power, 0.1% THD and IM worst case before clipping
• Current Output: 50 A short-duration peak per channel
• Input Impedance: 47 kOhm
• Voltage Gain:

  • RCA Inputs: 32 dB

  • Balanced Inputs: 38 dB

• Power Consumption:

  • Class A (idle): 485 W / 2.1 A

  • Class A/B (idle/standby): 92 W / 0.4 A

• Dimensions (W x H x D): 500 mm x 220 mm x 455 mm
• Weight: 38 kg (83 lbs)