2024 has been a year of massive change.
On October 7th 2023, I was 257 pounds. Bloated. Just like those in IDF Unit 8200 that failed miserably on that tragic morning.
Standing on the scale this morning, I was 206 pounds.
The loss of that much weight might seem like a huge achievement; like losing an entire amplifier strapped to your midsection — but it comes with a cost.
Not $15,000 like the new Marantz Model 10 Integrated Amplifier, but there is a cost for everything in life.
The days of indulging in a plate of kishka covered with gravy and some fries are also over.
Quite frankly, writing is a healthier form of therapy for me. Bottling it up inside only means that it will eventually explode.
Like an 845 tube all over the carpet.
The universe is telling me that I may need to start over. And whilst I’m not totally cool with that scenario — it’s a reality that I may have to accept.
Starting again includes downsizing and beginning from scratch in some ways.
Having already decided on which turntable would reside in my system for the long term, it felt only natural to select an amplifier that would finally make me happy.
Not that audiophiles, or people such as myself can ever be totally happy.
Unison Research Simply 845
Having owned 7 tube amplifiers over the past 30 years, my affection for them remains rather strong but is also tempered by the reality that they require a different level of maintenance and that one must always have some replacement tubes handy.
Supply chain issues have also made tubes more expensive and that is certainly true in regard to 300B and 845 output tubes.
The Simply 845 utilizes a pair of 845 tubes in a single-ended configuration that outputs 23 watts of Class A power.
The amplifier uses handmade in-house custom transformers, ECC82/12AU7s in the preamp stage and an ALPS RK27 motorized volume control; the unit is also self-biasing so all one needs to do is install the tubes and the unit takes care of the rest.
4 line level inputs and 2 sets of outputs (1 subwoofer, 1 tape) for those keeping score; one does need to add their own external phono stage for vinyl playback.
The 67 pounds of metal and wood are housed in a rather compact 14 1/2″ x 10 1/4″ x 22 1/2″ chassis.
Why this one?
Having already reviewed the excellent Unison Research Triode 25 Integrated Amplifier in 2022, I was rather curious to experience the next level of their products; albeit through a system well out of my price range.
The Unison Research Simply 845 caught my attention at CAF 2023 and it was a room that I returned to because it demonstrated an ability to handle both ends of the spectrum so well.
Delicate and quiet passages floated in the middle of the room and lingered just long enough for me to lean forward in my chair and absorb them.
Jazz trios with strong bass accompaniment felt rock solid and rich with texture; horns had wonderful bite and color.
Depending on the loudspeaker, the Simply 845 might have more than enough power to energize my listening space in the moments that the music requires it, and the color and presence to keep my attention with the volume turned down as not to disturb the lady of the house who might be asleep on the sofa.
It has to evoke a lot of feeling and passion. Based on my experience so far — the Italian amplifier is capable of that and far more.
When I turn it off for the evening, my mind and body need to be fulfilled.
The loudspeakers on the other end will have to be a willing dance partner for life because there is no going back. Certainly not where I may end up living for the next 50.
To be continued…
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