Any experience with Blaze S-1?
Mar 6, 2015 at 3:45 AM Thread Starter Post #1 of 2

shacky

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Came across this while researching RS amp.  Is this worth considering?
 
http://www.smalltao.com/product/14881219160/Blaze%20S-1%20boutique%20portable%20amp%20modeled%20on%20the%20famous%20Blackbird%20SR-71A%20value%20for%20money
 
Mar 6, 2015 at 4:09 AM Post #2 of 2
Well, it's largely based on the SR-71A (but may not use the same opamps). The PCB is also not of the same quality as a typical RSA amp, but appears to follow the SR-71A layout quite closely. Clearly, you can't expect an exact clone of an SR-71A at this price!

It is assembled by a semi-DIY operation in Anhui Province, and the general component quality appears to be good (i.e.it doesn't appear to be full of fake components). The enclosure is a generic project box (albeit a good, solid one), and has a few sharp edges. The volume pot is quiet and has good channel balance at low levels.

As for the SQ, it has incredible dynamics and a very deep, extended and powerful bass. It appears to have a high electrical damping factor and matches the T51p (for example) well. It will also drive high-impedance cans and some planars effortlessly.

The downside is a slight veil in the midrange, but this is not a deal-breaker. This may be due to the choice of opamps - who knows...

Apart from the obvious legal / moral issues associated with a product which is clearly based on someone else's work / IP, even if it is not an exact copy, the SQ for the asking price is very good. Be aware, though, that it eats PP3 batteries for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
 

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