In older, simpler times, the role of an audio system was so much easier: it just had to deliver music. It’s a job description the CV40 nails perfectly. In many ways it’s a one-box incarnation of the old Linn/Naim philosophy. It majors on Pace, Rhythm and Timing – while adding presence, body and colour to the mix. Give this amp a coherent source – anything from a Rega TT to a half decent CD player – add a pair of sensible two-way speakers and you’ll be well on your way to a genuinely engaging and entertaining musical performance. Will it fool you into think ‘you are there’? No. Nor will it recreate a facsimile of the original event. But when it comes to the musical message, why the musicians played the song, not what they played, the CV40 will never leave you guessing. It delivers music with presence, purpose and intent – all of which makes for extremely involving listening. It’s different enough, attractive enough and rewarding enough to warrant serious attention. If you want to know more, you’ll find Solen at the Vienna Show (Hall X3 Stand F08).
While the Solen amp can grow with a system, at least up to a point, that’s not really its raison d’être. The CV40-EL84 exists so that you won’t find yourself constantly seeking the next upgrade, the next fix to your system’s ills. This amp just is and just does – and I just love it for that. The audio industry needs more products like this one. As the Beach Boys (might well have) said, “We’ll have fun, fun, fun ‘til daddy takes the CV away!”
Price and availability:
Solen CV40-EL84 integrated amplifier – €5,190 (inc. 20% sales tax)
Manufacturer:
Solen Audio
t. +33 476 900 583
e. solen@elethic.fr
n. www.solen-audio.fr
