The Psvane Horizon tubes were kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review. I didn’t receive monetary or any other kind of compensation and I don’t use affiliate links. The prices for matched pairs are KT88 $145.99, EL84 $49.99, 12AU7 $54.99 and you can buy them from Amazon. Psvane Horizon KT88, EL84, 12AU7.
Introduction
In contemporary times, the number of manufacturers producing vacuum tubes for audio applications has significantly diminished, as these components are now regarded as obsolete and antiquated. This is the era of solid state designs and perfect measurements. Nevertheless, numerous audiophiles maintain that only vacuum tubes can deliver audio that resonates with the essence of genuine music, rather than merely providing high-fidelity sound.
There are four primary manufacturers of vacuum tubes that supply all currently produced audio tubes, which are marketed under various brand names.
Psvane Vacuum Tubes
Psvane, a prominent name in the high-end vacuum tube market, was founded by a team of designers who previously worked for the state-owned Shuguang vacuum tube factory. This small group decided to establish their own company, focusing on creating superior audio components.
Today, Psvane is recognized for its extensive range of vacuum tubes tailored for various audio applications. Their offerings include both classic replicas and cutting-edge designs, all aimed at delivering exceptional sound quality for discerning users.
The hierarchy of the Psvane audio tubes is as follows:
Basic – “Hi-Fi” and “UK” series
Selected – “Horizon” and “Art” series
Premium – “Western Electric” and “Acme” series
Psvane Horizon Vacuum Tubes
The Horizon series represents Psvane’s newest range of vacuum tubes, offering a more balanced sound profile than the Art Series. This line integrates advanced technologies, including HPC-T and HPC-X anode coatings, as well as innovative high-density ceramic materials for the tube bases. Additionally, the internal structures of the minitubes have been strengthened to enhance durability. Each product in the Horizon series is subjected to thorough quality control and burn-in testing, ensuring superior stability and reliability.
The Horizon series includes the following types of tubes:
Technologies explained
The HPC-T anode coating technology has been developed to tackle challenges associated with heat dissipation and thermal stress in anodes. This advancement minimizes signal distortion, guarantees consistent output, and improves sound clarity.
Furthermore, the HPC-X anode coating technology boosts both anode and output power while effectively absorbing excess gases, thus prolonging the lifespan of the tube.
The bases are constructed from high-density ceramics, which lower conductivity and dampening, contributing to enhanced overall stability.
Psvane Horizon 12AU7-AT and EL84-AT Vacuum Tubes
The 12AU7, also referred to as ECC82, is a compact nine-pin dual triode vacuum tube with medium gain, commonly utilized in pre-amplification circuits and guitar amplifiers.
Introduced in the early 1950s, the EL84 pentode power tube was designed as a cost-effective substitute for the larger power tubes available at that time. Its popularity surged shortly thereafter, leading to a wide array of stereo hi-fi tube amplifiers incorporating this model, while Vox also adopted the EL84 for their guitar amplifiers.
The xDuoo TA-84 vacuum tube OTL headphone amplifier
An audio device that incorporates both types of these tubes is the Drop + xDuoo TA-84, which functions as an Output Transformerless (OTL) headphone amplifier. This model features dual ECC82 tubes in the preamp stage and dual EL84 tubes in the power amplifier section.
The TA-84 delivers a captivating and pleasurable sonic experience, merging the alluring qualities of tube amplifiers with the technical capabilities of solid-state amplifiers within the same category. If you are not yet acquainted with this amplifier, I highly recommend reading my review to gain insight into its sound characteristics.
The xDuoo TA-84 is supplied with Psvane tubes from their Hi-Fi series; however, in my experience, both 12AU7 tubes exhibited microphonic issues, hissing and background noise. Maybe they happened to be defective. Consequently, I opted to replace all tubes, both preamp and power, with equivalent models from JJ Electronic. My listening impressions, detailed in the TA-84 review, are based on these replacements, which now include the Psvane Horizon 12AU7-AT and EL84-AT for comparison and evaluation of their audio performance.
The tubes were subjected to 150 hours of burn-in time to guarantee they achieved their optimal performance. For this evaluation, I utilized the Sennheiser HD660S2 and Sennheiser HD8XX headphones.
Psvane 12AU7-AT and EL84-AT / Listening impressions
Experiencing the Psvane Horizon tubes was truly unexpected and immensely enjoyable, as they significantly outperformed the already impressive JJ Electronic tubes in terms of sound quality.
It is important to highlight that both the preamp and power tubes operate with complete silence, generating no more hiss or background noise than the power supply’s transformer. Additionally, the tubes exhibit minimal microphonics; one must tap them to elicit any sound.
The technical capabilities of the Psvane Horizon tubes surpass those of the JJ Electronic. These tubes are capable of delivering the entire frequency spectrum, from deep bass to the highest treble, without any loss in amplitude. While I lack the equipment for precise measurements, the audible frequency response appears to be perfectly flat, exhibiting no deviations from linearity. The sound produced is remarkably transparent and precise, offering exceptional definition and clarity that is among the best in its class.
The bass response is swift, precise, and controlled, showcasing remarkable layering and clarity. Simultaneously, it possesses the depth, richness, and flexibility that are characteristic of premium tube amplifiers. Compared to the JJ tubes, which tend to sound somewhat dry and uninspiring, this bass offers greater fluidity, a more natural resonance, and tangible textures. The EL84 power tubes excel in enhancing the dynamic range and raw power of the low frequencies, providing the strength needed to deliver a punchy and impactful sound through your headphones.
More listening impressions
The technical characteristics of the Psvane Horizon are notably similar to those of solid-state designs; however, they also deliver a rich musicality and the enchanting qualities associated with tube amplifiers, particularly in the mid-range frequencies. In addition to their vibrant harmonics and abundant overtones, these tubes render vocals with an uncanny quality, making the singers seem more substantial and lifelike compared to the JJ tubes.
The treble is lively and dynamic yet remains smooth and refined. Contrary to common perceptions, tube amplifiers can often produce a bright and harsh sound; however, this is not the case with the Horizon model. It stands out for its exceptional detail retrieval and resolution, delivering a natural sound free from brightness or artificiality. Additionally, the Horizon tubes are adept at creating a grand, immersive soundstage, demonstrating remarkable imaging and positional accuracy.
The sound produced is harmonious and euphonic, avoiding any overly sweet or muddled qualities. It seamlessly blends technical precision with musical expression, providing an optimal balance. The Psvane Horizon tubes are strongly suggested as an upgrade for the xDuoo TA-84 amplifier and other compatible audio systems.
Psvane Horizon KT88-AT Vacuum Power Tubes
The KT88 is a beam power tetrode tube featuring an octal base, capable of delivering up to 50W for a pair, while maintaining exceptionally low distortion levels. Renowned for its superior audio quality, the KT88 vacuum tube is often regarded as one of the top choices for HiFi tube amplifiers. Among the best-sounding options available, the Psvane Acme KT88 tubes stand out, and Psvane has now introduced the Horizon KT88-AT as a more budget-friendly alternative.
Lab 12 integre4 MK2 – Tube integrated amplifier
Lab 12 is a specialized Greek audio company renowned for its boutique tube equipment, which has gained international acclaim from both audiophiles and reviewers.
The integre4 MK2 is an integrated amplifier featuring transformer coupling, capable of accommodating the KT170, the most powerful tube currently available. It also supports a range of other tubes, including 6550, EL34, KT88, KT120, and KT150. I possess the latest version, which includes dual toroidal transformers in the power supply and custom output transformers. For more insights into this amplifier, please refer to my reviews available here and here.
For heavier loads, I prefer using the Tung Sol KT170 tubes; however, my top choice remains the Psvane EL34-PH, which is among the most musically engaging tubes available today.
The KT88-AT tubes were allowed to play music continuously for over 150 hours to achieve their best performance. For the listening assessment, I utilized the Audio Physic Spark, a three-way stand-mount speaker system.
Psvane Horizon KT88-AT / Listening impressions
The Psvane Horizon KT88 tubes achieve an ideal equilibrium between the technical excellence and dynamic strength of the KT170 and the liquidity and rich musicality of the EL34. They possess sufficient power to effortlessly handle challenging speaker loads, delivering sound that is remarkably clear and transparent, with a linear frequency response. Additionally, they exhibit exceptional resolution and refinement.
The KT88 tubes excel in delivering powerful, tight, and well-controlled bass compared to the EL34, while maintaining a warmth that the KT170 lacks. Although their mid-range may not possess the same euphonic quality as the EL34, it offers a more vibrant and lush character than the KT170.
The KT88 effectively combines the impressive technical performance of the KT170 with the superior timbral realism of the EL34, resulting in a sound that is ideally balanced for those who appreciate the best of both worlds.
More listening impressions
The Psvane Horizon KT88 is designed to provide deep, impactful bass, a crystal-clear and well-defined mid-range with remarkable tonal accuracy, and an extended, energetic treble that captures detail without veering into a clinical or solid-state sound.
The KT88 excels over both the EL34 and the KT170 in terms of sound projection and the expansiveness of the soundstage, both in depth and width. While the KT170 provides a bit more precision in imaging and separation, and the EL34 creates a more personal listening atmosphere, the KT88 delivers a more holographic and immersive experience. Its soundstage extends beyond the physical limits of the speakers, resulting in an extraordinarily lifelike representation of the musical performance.
This tube excels across a wide range of musical genres, effortlessly accommodating everything from classical compositions to heavy metal and electronic tracks, all while delivering an exceptionally pleasing sound. Although I have a strong appreciation for the EL84-PH, I find it difficult to let go of the Psvane Horizon KT88.
In the end
The Psvane Horizon tubes achieve an ideal equilibrium between the precision of solid-state technology and the warmth of tube sound. Their audio performance is exceptional, exhibiting no discernible flaws, and they operate completely silently, devoid of any background noise.
Additionally, they are constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring excellent thermal stability and promising extensive longevity with hundreds of hours of use before requiring replacement.
The Psvane Horizon epitomizes the pinnacle of tube production, offering a contemporary tube with unique sonic characteristics that rival the finest examples from previous eras, all while eliminating concerns over inconsistent quality and the exorbitant costs associated with vintage tubes.
Copyright – Petros Laskis 2024.
+ Ideal balance of technical performance and musicality
+ Exceptionally natural timbre
+ Excellent tonal accuracy
+ Linear frequency response
+ Harmonious and euphonic
+ Crystalline clarity and transparency
+ No microphonic or background noise
+ Thermal stability and excellent build quality
+ Instant availability and affordable prices
+ Great value for money
- Nothing of note
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