Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 Amplifier

Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 Amplifier

The Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 Amplifier is available for demonstration in our Hull store by request

Detailed Review: Sugden Sapphire DAP800 Preamp & FBA-800 Power Amplifier

Sugden has extensive experience in Class ‘A’ amplification and overwhelming belief in the sonic advantages of Class ‘A’ operation.

The Sugden FBA-800 is the company's most advanced power amplifier. The floating bridge design combines four 20 Watt amplifiers in a single stereo chassis and provides several key benefits. Each channel consists of two amplifiers working as voltage amplifiers driving an output stage of bridged power transistors. The advantages are a low noise floor, improved power output relative to the voltage rails (x2), and—thanks to the fixed current characteristic of the class A mode—a low output impedance along with excellent load tolerance. The floating bridge design ensures higher performance with less noise and greater power efficiency, meaning the owner enjoys clearer sound, robust performance, and the flexibility to drive various speaker loads without compromising quality.

The Sugden FBA-800 is D.C. coupled and features a servo lock, ensuring superb low-frequency detail and tight control over the entire frequency spectrum. For added safety, the unit includes a dedicated D.C. protection circuit. This protective circuit is statically switched using extremely low impedance MOSFET switching devices, which not only safeguard the components but also provide a smooth soft-switching mechanism when powering the amplifier on and off. The design minimizes transient noise and prevents abrupt power fluctuations. The DC coupling and servo lock enhance bass response and overall sound precision, while the protection circuit ensures longevity and reliability. For the owner, this means consistent performance with reduced risk of damage or noise interference during power cycling.

The power supply system is a robust, low impedance design, incorporating a single custom-made bi-filar wound transformer that includes four separate windings. This configuration enhances the efficiency of power delivery while maintaining stability under demanding conditions. Additionally, the main smoothing capacitors in the output stage have been specially developed for professional audio applications. They offer excellent ripple characteristics and extended operational life, ensuring the amplifier performs reliably in both studio and live settings. With a custom transformer and specialized capacitors, the amplifier delivers stable, efficient power even in challenging environments. Owners benefit from reliable operation, fewer power-related issues, and a longer lifespan of the unit.

Each channel’s output stage is built around four power transistors, each a multi-emitter device capable of delivering up to 26 amps. This not only maximizes the output capacity but also reinforces the integrity of the audio signal. The Sugden FBA-800 operates in a fully balanced mode from input to output, preserving the original audio quality and providing enhanced rejection of any unwanted noise or interference. The high-current transistors and fully balanced circuitry ensure that the audio remains true to its source, free from distortions and interference. The owner gains a powerful amplifier that delivers high fidelity sound with superior clarity and minimal distortion.

Part Exchange Available

As you would expect from Fanthorpes hifi, we offer a generous part exchange against the Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 Amplifier. If you have any hifi that you wish to use as part payment then either call us on 01482 223096 or email us at shop@fanthorpes.co.uk and we will give you a price to change. This is a fantastic and hassle-free way of making the Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 more affordable.

Finance Available

Fanthorpes hifi can also offer buy now pay later on the Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 Amplifier, allowing you to spread or defer your payments over a year. If you are interested in taking advantage of our payment terms, email shop@fanthorpes.co.uk or call us on 01482 223096 and we will email an application form to you.

Sugden Sapphire FBA-800 Amplifier Specification:

• Inputs – Stereo line level, stereo balanced.
• Outputs – Stereo pair multi way locking binding posts.
• Front panel gain selector – 6dB input attenuation.
• Front Panel input selector – RCA or XLR.
• Input sensitivity – 735mV for full output.
• Power output – 40 Watts into 8 ohms both channels working.
• Frequency response – 0dB 20Hz – 80kHz.
• Bandwidth – 3dB points 6Hz – 113kHz.
• Signal to noise – >96dB.
• Distortion at 1 Watt,1 kHz – >0.05%.
• Weight – 25kgs.
• Dimensions – 206 x 430 x 460mm (hwd)
• 5 Year Warranty