Galion TS120SE review - welcome aboard!
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- čas přidán 1. 06. 2024
- * Apology. At 06:55 I say 'left hand of the piano', have no idea why I said that! What I should have said is 'acoustic Bass'. There is no piano on the track. The effect I want to point out, occurs at 00:15 and 2:13 into the track called 'Linda Paloma' from Jackson Browne's album 'The Pretender'. A similar effect happens in a piece of Bach, performed by the Jacques Loussier trio, maybe my brain got the two mixed up - who knows? The point is, a good amplifier (combined with good source material / equipment) needs to turn the 'percussive thump' of the bass into a clearly defined and detailed note. Hopefully your system can do this. Another thing to listen to is the width of your soundstage. The rhythm guitars on the track, left and right, should appear beyond your loudspeakers (especially on the right). The track also offers you a good chance to compare the quality of MP3 and CD quality. Note: this track was recorded analogue, before the days of digital.
At the end of the video we offer (in Thomas & Stereo, time honoured tradition), some live demos of the TS120 playing Clare Teal's version of Cole Porter's classic, 'I've Got you under my skin'. The demos were recorded in our Belgian listening room using a Roland R26, with the built in 'XY' and 'omnidirectional' microphones, placed in (+/-) the listening position. The equipment was:
Rega P10 turntable with Apheta 3 MC cartridge and Aria Mk 3 pre-amplifier, through the Galion TS120 SE and out via our Sibelius SG loudspeakers, slightly toed in.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
04:17 The Galion TS120 arrives
05:05 Powering it up
07:16 Setup and sound
09:36 Summary
15:20 Sound demo 1
15:57 Sound demo 2
16:34 Sound demo 3
17:12 Sound demo 4
As always, if you would like to find out more about Pearl Acoustics and our Sibelius loudspeakers, please visit our website at:
www.pearlacoustics.com
or email us with your questions:
enquiries@pearlacoustics.com
Social media links:
/ pearlacoustics
/ pearl.acoustics
More information on the Galion TS120 can be found here:
www.galion-audio.com/products... - Jak na to + styl
Thank you Harley for this great video. I am so happy my hard work has paid off and the amplifier has blown away many current owners.
One thing to note is that the wooden casing is only used worldwide except in North America because we bring those in by pallet instead.
👋 THOMAS,😂YOU BEAT ME TO THE COMMENTS 💚💚💚
😂
Thanks Thomas. You’re very welcome. Thanks for the info re the packaging.
I still don't like the valve cover I think there's an issue with small fingers getting in there what I can see. and it's rounded what doesn't look right a square box would look better.
Anyway that's my Christmas moan... well done Thomas just have to lower the price now!!!!
I don't like the AB it sounds gated. And I think there's too much going on with the amplifier not user friendly, do away with all the buttons except tone control and selector and have everything on an app for your phone with some presettings by yourself Thomas an adjustable global feedback dial on the app. What do you think!!
@@hoobsgroove Haha, I wish I can lower the price but when I priced the TS120, I made it an honest price so I can give proper quality after-sales service and there will be no going on 'special' to entice people to buy it like many big companies. I hate it when companies jack up the price and then pretend to give a rebate so it looks like a good deal. Also, it is out of respect to everyone who bought it before. 😁😁
I've listened to Thomas for some time and he's one of the reviewers I trust to give good advice. He's not snobbish or condescending even though he owns some very high end equipment. I like that he reviews a lot of components at a price point that the average person can afford.
I fully agree re Thomas. 👍
…..which is rare in the audio equipment manufacturing sector
I received my Galion TS120 SE a few weeks ago. It is phenomenal. I have it paired with some Revel Performa 3 F208 speakers and a Polk Audio 12 inch subwoofer. Such a nice presentation of all instruments. And it passes the scrutiny of some very discerning audiophile friends of mine. They love it and so do I.
Oh that’s great news Jeremy. Donuts not only me that likes it 😀
I've had the pleasure of having Thomas's flagship Galion at my place for a nice listening session, and I was totally amazed by the sound quality of this amplifier! The soundstage that it is able to project is remarkable, the tone and texture of the instruments and voices is spot on (at least to my personal taste) and something I rarely see in a tube amplifier is all the dynamic and control over the bass range, texture, speed, very impressive!
I can only agree with you Dominic.
Thanks for the review on the amp. I enjoy your Channel as well as Thomas and Stereo. I am very happy for Thomas that his dream amp is a reality and as good as he wanted it to be. All the best to you both for 2023.
Thank you! Very kind Roy
Pearl Acoustics and Thomas & Stereo - two of the best audio channels on CZcams!
Very fine praise indeed. Very humbled
I agree for 100%❗️❗️👍🙏
And another very fine review 👏👍 THX ❗️👏👍🙏
I’ve come to really enjoy and trust Thomas’s reviews for all the reasons cited here. His anecdotes and tangents are particularly charming. Glad to see Thomas receiving some well deserved recognition.
Thomas is a unique voice and he must be happy to have been able to help develop such a fine product. He has made a democratic product that offers several modes of being without compromising the listening experience and it seems to be well built and well priced. What’s not to like?
We're all so proud of you, Thomas. What an amazing adventure this has been for us all to see and hear.
Nice review. Congratulations to both of you.
Thomas, if you got a good review from this dude you are on your way for real
Great video. I think when you have to search for something that you don't like,it is a good thing. I love the versatility of this amp and I love the tone controls. I think hifi needs more like this.
Thank you
Wow! Congrats Thomas and Stereo! Thanks for this greatly presented review.
Thank you!
Happy holidays Harley. Keep the great videos coming.
Thanks!
Thanks Harley for all your videos this year has been wonderful to listen watch and learn from your experience real high praise from you to recommend this amp - congratulations to Thomas what a feat to have done this!
Thank you Andrew! Much appreciated
Finally a decent sounding demo of the TS120, hope Thomas is watching lol Sounds amazing! Would be interesting to hear what this demo would sound like with a song using electronic instruments recorded directly to the mixing desk, including electronic drums. 😎
Thank you Harley for 5he review and Thomas for this product! In general I do prefer single ended topology, but push-pull class A like this one is also amazing, especially for bass control. Congratulations!
Thanks!
I'm really glad for Thomas that he got a great review. I hope he gets a lot more of them. He worked long and hard to get exactly what he wanted. This is his reward for a job well done.
Absolutely Mark. (But I also think the team behind the amplifier design must have put in a great many hours too)! 😉
@PearlAcoustics Listen, I've already gone out on a limb jeopardizing my hard-earned reputation as the king of the internet trolls. Don't push it.
I'm a big fan of your channel, Harley, and also of Thomas' channel. I am so, so happy for Thomas. Your review no doubt means a real lot to Thomas...and for me, too. Your reviews are a great value for me. A TS120SE will be on order in due course. Ta
Hi Nick, thanks you’re very kind. Enjoy the TS120SE
High praise as I believe you have a discerning ear.
Thank you.
Congratulations Harley for the great video. Thomas very well done.
Thanks!
Congratulations to Thomas. And congratulations for a well done review.
Thank you
I have been following the development of this amplifier by Thomas, now I know where its at , and its about time we had tone controls ,Great review .Thank you 🙏
Thanks!
Great review! Having received the SE last week my only negative at this time are the blue lights on the front can be distracting if listening in darkness.. really this amp is on a whole other level!!!
Hi thanks for your kind words! Indeed the blue lights could be annoying but in my listening room I placed it very low, way below eyesight so I didn’t notice it.
Thank you for your detailed explanation.
Every sentence of yours is telling the point of this amplifier.
The sound is really good.
What's more ?
I was very surprised by this amplifier.
This amplifier can drive many difficult speakers , the dynamics and details are well done 😊
I was using Mcintosh C47 and MC302 , the TS120 beat my setup
Thanks!
That’s impressive, considering the price difference. I have the Musical Fidelity Nu-Vista 600 and am contemplating to get the Galion as well. Too back I can’t test it first.
@@larsv6144you can test drive it. Just ask Thomas.
@@larsv6144can’t resist commenting because you mentioned NuVista….just today I was wondering why I keep hanging on to my Musical Fidelity A3cr preamp as I’m not using it anymore. I just read a really terrific review on it by Wes Phillips where in one paragraph its developer, Antony Michaelson, compares it with their limited edition NuVista. “Michaelson said it was every bit as good as Musical Fidelity’s limited, and much coveted, Nu-Vista preamplifier. "In fact," he confided, "technically, it’s fractionally better in high-frequency crosstalk, better at HF distortion and it has generally wider bandwidth." He further claimed that the A3CR was as good as the very best preamplifiers made.” Darn, I wish I could find a use for it! I could use its phono stage. I could use its many source connections.
But I’ve just bought an audition of Thomas’ Galion TS120SE! I’m planning to fall in love with the Galion. It will replace a much loved Audiomat Prelude Reference MKII integrated tube amp. It just has to marry well with my much loved Quad ESL-63 electrostatic speakers ❤ and it will be a keeper.
And I have to add my grateful thanks to Harley for such an honestly expressed evaluation of the Galion. When Harley said he would be using it as his amplifier of choice for auditioning his Sibelius speakers that really caught my attention. And that he is buying another for his London showroom said even more. After all, actions speak louder than words.❤❤
This amp with your speaker are a dream system!
Thanks
Hello from Montreal, Actually Thomas lent me the Galion to try. I knew him from a previous speaker discussion. I called him up with a question and asked me if I wanted to try his amp because he knew I had harder to drive speakers. The amplifier came we set it up and wow can it deliver. Everything is solid and satisfying to the touch from the volume control to the remote and it doesn’t run hot. My impression is that right out of the gate you are immersed in the sound, it’s immediate but controlled so this amp can power my Veritys being at 86 dbs with ease. Your description is spot on. I think we all want our gear to shine and stand out and complement each other. This amplifier does in droves. All the best
Thank you
A match made in heaven! 🎵🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶
Thank you for doing such a great review. Your voice would be so good for voice over work. 😊
Thanks!
Wonderful review of this exquisite piece of equipment. The high end tube amplifiers such as this Galion are on the level of their own and combined with the components of the same class, as is the case here, provide us with an ultimate esoteric musical experience. By the way, could You please tell us when is the Part 3 of the turntable series due?
Thank you very much for your kind words. Pt. 3 is due mid January.
Great review ❤
Thanks
$4500 is huge to most audio 76 years old. If I won the lottery yes a large tube amp is in my music room. Love my Casta C horn speakers and the Audio Space 3i KT 77 power tube AB amp 13 watts , Great power. Modify Dual 1229 Astatic MF 200 Shabbat stylus , BlueSound Vault 2 love classical music
Thanks a lot for Review!! I didn't know he ships already internationally? Exited to place an order..
You’re very welcome
I have ordered an SE Version. Now I have to be patient until the next batch arrives!
Hopefully you won’t have to wait too long. 😉
Reverting description 🔥
Harley as always an honest candid review! The TS120SE design incorporates: auto bias, amp a/ab, standby, tone controls, all in a remote as well, in a gorgeous design.
However u did not allude to: what is the burn in time required? Tubes and tube amps require xx hrs of burn in usually to optimize the sound.
Dear David, thank you for your kind and informative comment. I find the topic of ‘burn and in’ difficult because, if burn in exists, at what point does it stop and why? I mean this from a scientific point of view. If we take an existentialist one, then ‘everything is in decay’. Having said both those things. I didn’t notice the big change. It sounded pretty good straight out of the box. But I followed Thomas’s advice and played it for a few hours. Gave it a test and continued again, everyday for about four weeks. I believe there may have been some change (sounding smoother) but nothing overly significant. At most all I could say is that it sounded ‘rounder’ more relaxed. Hoping that helps? And thanks for adding the features I missed out! And indeed, the Galion is a really great sounding amplifier!
Thomas congrats and bravo. Harley being a CZcams commentator I respect, this is high praise.
All I can think is those words heard on your channel. Listening to Thomas is hard on your wallet.
Indeed, one must not get sucked in. I hope I do not advocate people changing equipment, when there is no need… glad you enjoy the videos!
I scratch your back and you scratch mi back, the Thomas Stereo - Pearl Acoustic love display reaches a new level of HiFi cabaret talks, top class, and nicely massages the already sugar addicted crowd.
Well you can always check out the reviews of the actual owners on my website. Just click on "customer's feedback." They all echo what Harley said and more.
Hi, I can understand how it can be seen this way, but for what it’s worth, Thomas and the amplifier development team have come up with a great performing amplifier. My video, is simply the case of acknowledging that fact. If it had turned out as anything less, I would have advised Thomas to go back to the drawing board, rather than risk the chance of him disappointing his subscribers and impacting his reputation.
Harley, this was extra special because, it gave me a chance to hear the speakers too! I did find the A and A very warm, easy on the ears. The AB - A a touch brighter perhaps, and everything in the B mode was a bit harsher in the upper midrange. Were you getting something similar in your actual listening experiences?
I will say, most all the higher end tube amps made in China are VERY nicely made and appointed. This includes those from Primaluna, and my very own Willsenton R8. The volume controls are motorized and made in Japan across a number of brands. The Willsenton R8's remote is also make of metal and has the metal machined buttons.
In conclusion, it is because of Thomas and Stereo and his review of the R8, that I purchased one straight away ! I am running that amp in 4 ohm mode with a lovely pair of Martin Logan Classic 9 electrostatics. It's a very surprising pairing for sure. Again, thanks for a very relaxed video presentation. 🙂
Thank you Gary. Isn’t our hobby so interesting with always something new to discover. The variance in the room was noticeable but subtle.
@@PearlAcoustics So correct on NEW discoveries!, looking forward to what you will present to your 'audience' next 😉
@@garysmith8455 thank you
Hi Harley.
Very nice video and amp.
I hope one day I can own a pair Sibelius speakers.
Gr André de vries.
Thank you André, you’re very kind.
I have the Musical Fidelity Nu Vista 600 amplifier (has a Nuvistor tube pre amp) with Wharfedale Elysian 2 speakers and Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE dac. Now I am wondering if the Galion would top the NV600? Wouldn’t mind if the sound would be a bit more forward, even better bass control and more stage depth.
Sorry I can’t advise, I don’t know the 600 (never actually heard one)
Way to go Thomas .
Wonderful review of this integrated amplifier. It certainly has me curious as to how it would measure up against my present gear (Radford STA25, Jumetite CR610 speakers, Ariston tt with a Shure V15).
One thing I can say I do not hear on my system is any piano note on “Linda Paloma”… Vijula, Harp, Guitaron ,Violin and backing vocals, but no piano!
Hi Rob, thanks for your kind words! Oh you got me!!! I don’t know what I was saying… (that’s the problem with doing these talks without a script and in one take. you’re absolutely right, it’s just bass that’s playing, there’s no piano in sight. But hopefully you know what I mean, there’s a distinct, detailed resonance in the sustained bass that is easy to compare with.
Pheww...what a relief, I tought I could throw my system out of the window!
The STA 25 is a very good amplifier, recondionned and with nos tubes I would like one above many others .............I have more than 60 years experience with tubes and I repaired, reconditionned ,modified and build many .............The STA25 is printed in my memory as something very unique sounding , build to last and designed by it's creator to play MUSIC not HIFI !
Radford was a genius and perfectionist with more knowledge about tubes than most current designers.........A man who loved MUSIC and used the tube technolgy to achieve that .........
Your more than vintage amplifier will survive even those desirable new amplifiers , ........even a galion............
@@frankgeeraerts6243 Thank you for the comment. Well, musical it most certainly is, as it passes my test of what makes for great audio. The test? that the Hi Fi vanishes and my focus turns to the music alone. I bought the Radford to drive my Quad ESL 57s, but I am finding it drives the Jumetite's equally well.
@@osbert43 That's indeed what it is all about ...........able to LISTEN and enjoy the music ............and the tools that make them invisible , just letting the muisc touch your soul...and the Quad and Radford are part of it .....
Have a nice day.
Hi Harley. I've watched Thomas's channel for a long while now and enjoy his story telling and style of reviewing. He comes across as very sincere and knows what he likes. This amp sounds impressive and the only thing that I would change would be a cosmetic thing and that would be the black knobs changed to chrome. This would lift the look of the amp and make it look even more up market. I have a Chinese Qinpu amp that has metal coloured knobs over the black casing and it looks really nice. I can imagine that it would be a perfect match for your Sibelius speakers.
Hi Steve, thanks for your comment. Looks are so personal. I should imagine it would be pretty easy to add some new knobs of your own choice. Would be interesting to see what your idea looks like.
Looks like a nice amp - but I fell in love with Sugden at first sight back in 1974 and have just upgraded my A48 to an ANV-50 (more suitable for the tropical weather here in Malaysia). Still, if I ever feel like a tube amp....
The ANV-50 is an excellent choice, in my opinion. For your circumstances
Wow! If I could afford it this is the amplifier I would buy.
It is rather special.
This is a very, very good amplifier!
Glad you like it!
there are now CZcams videos of the IWISTAO tube amplifier 2X8 w. 350 euros. The sound is more than great.
👋 THANKS HARLEY,NO SURPRISES HERE FOR THOMAS’s WORK…I didn’t know about GEORGE ,by name ,but I knew that he worked 😅 hard with THOMAS, AND THEY BOTH HAVE A PASSION FOR MUSIC 🎼,years of experience and discriminating taste and IMHHO understand that people have different tastes and they can help many people get their own tastes satisfied ..😢 but of course not all , I think 🤔 it’s a beautiful 🤩 amp well done 👍 and I am happy that you agree with me 😂…someday I hope to hear 👂 this with your SIBELIUS SPEAKERS,in LONDON AND BRUSSELS 🙂💚💚💚
You’ll be very welcome indeed!
I would almost buy it just for its looks ... and for its capability to switch from class A to A/B. So, if the amp is in class A/B mode, it doesn't get hot or uses insane amounts of power?
Hi Alex, you raise a very good point here about power consumption and heat generation. I will see if I can have that checked. But in all likelihood I don’t think there will be a massive difference in heat generation as the tubes heaters give off most of it and they don’t change between modes.
Nice review, Thomas has done a good job, he has voiced the Doge 10 amplifier to what he likes, however I feel you need to give more credit to Mr Zey Liu of Doge Amplifiers. Many of the features and functions you describe are standard on the Doge 10 amplifier designed by Mr Liu, Thomas has just refined this amplifier to his personal taste. I don't want to take any thing away from Thomas, but the Doge 10 design is very innovative to start with and they have improved their product since the Galion TS120SE, please check them out and give them some credit as well, they are a Cottage Industry just like your brand. Whilst talking of smaller brands, have you looked at Felix Audio's Arioso 300B amplifier, beautifully made in Poland, I have this amplifier and I love it, not as many features as the Galion or Doge, but still a fantastic product from another small cottage industry company. Love your reviews and comments.
Dear Simon, thank you very much for your excellent contribution to the topic. And indeed, I am very pleased that you acknowledge Mr. Zey Liu. In my defence (😉) I deliberately chose not to do too much research on this amp because I wanted to judge it on its own merits. So I am very pleased that you picked this up.
I have just looked up your 300B amplifier, I must say it looks stunning. I love the way the rectifier valve is tucked in between two transformers.
Best wishes, H
Interesting review. I would have loved more comparisons to other amps, such the Sugden, Pass and Primaluna. I was surprised that I could hear a difference between A and AB, even from a crummy laptop with earphones. One thing I would LOVE to see on integrated/pre-amps is names on inputs, rather than 1234, but programmable TT, DAC, Tape, Tuner, ... With todays LCD displays, that should be no problem. Or with some rotary dials similar to day mechanisms on a good mechanical watch. I could put stickers on the amp, but that is just plain ugly.
Re tone controls, personally not a fan. With good recordings and good equipment, I let them do the job, and let me be surprised at times. Similarly, I would never ask for salt when dining at alinea in Chicago or Sorrel in San Francisco. I know there are proponents of tone control.
PS. Looking forward to part 3 of the TT/Rega discussion. All the best for the new year!
Dear Daniel, thanks for your (as always) excellent contribution to the topic. Comparing TS120 to the Pass or Sugden, was rather difficult because at this level they are all getting very close to one another. But to answer your question: sonically I would say it’s right down the middle, between the two and it avoids being over warm in character, unlike many tube amplifiers.
Re your ideas on lcd screens, my colleague Maxime has installed a ‘control 4’ system in my house so I can select ‘listen to CD’ or ‘ watch video’ or ‘listen to LP’, for example and the system changes inputs snd fires off relays etc. To switch on my monoblock tube amplifiers or solid state etc. Which works great, until it goes wrong! 😂 luckily does not happen too often!
Oh, those speakers paired with that amp…what a treat that must be to hear that pairing! Great video, thank you.
Thanks! Indeed they do work well together.
How does it compare with an Audio Research amp, say their latest release models?
Hi, I am very sorry, I don’t know the answer to that. Without doing an A/B comparison it’s impossible to say.
Hi Harley
Noticed that your sibelius are set quite fall apart, maybe 2.5~3 m and have quite a bit of toe in. How fall away is your listening position? Equidistant?
Hi, in my videos they are tilted a little more than usual to make a more interesting framing around the video. Personally, width is just a preference ( I like a bit narrower then distance away) toe in should only be slight, or not at all in my opinion. It’s a choice of filling the room evenly or creating a narrow ‘sweet spot’ - feel free to reach out to Ajay at Pearl Acoustics for more info.
@@PearlAcoustics Thanks for the clarification.
Hi Sir your review was excellent you explained very well. I need a favor & advise. I am planning to buy a tube valve amplifier. 3 choices?? 1) Canor Ai 1.10 made Slovakia, 2) Cayin CS120 A China, 3) Galion TS 120 SE This is Class A& AB. My choice is Galion But I don’t where it’s made. Please reply sir. I a waiting for your reply. Thanks you so much 🙏Sir where is it made Calion TS 120SE , Is it 220volt , I am in Bahrain, how is the service support spare parts availability. 🙏
Thank you for your kind comment. I am not knowledgeable enough on the Cayin or Canor but I do know that the Galion is very good. It is made in China and Thomas offers a string support program for his amplifiers. I hope that helps?
@@PearlAcoustics Hi Sir thank for the reply. 🙏 I need to get touch with Mr Thomas , do you have his email ID and contact number. Can you please share it. It be very helpful. Bye 👋
Hola, sorry mi ingles, how long do the tubes last approximately? difficult answer?, gracias from CHILE
Dear Eduardo, thanks for your question. If a tube amplifier is well designed (meaning the tubes are not driven too hard) - and if the tube is of high quality, then they can last decades. Thousands and thousands of hours. I have quad tube preamplifier / Dac and it is on all day every day. It’s now about ten years old and is still on its first set of tubes.
I cannot answer for the Galion because I don’t know enough detail but Doge have been designing and making tube amplifiers for decades, so I am fairly confident that you should not have a problem. I also have two large monoblock tube power amplifiers for more than 9 years, also used every day (except in the hottest days in the summer, because the room gets too hot) and I have only changed one tube, I think there was something wrong with it in the first place. Hope this helps?
@@PearlAcoustics Muchas gracias, you are very kind, gracias gracias
Thanks for the Jackson Browne "Linda Paloma" tip. I wonder whether there will be someone out there compiling a spreadsheet listing which amplifier type to use for playing such & such music. If made public such a reference work would give a whole new topic for audiophiles to "engage in civilized discourse" on.
Hi Pablo. Of course a great amplifier need to cover every genre and type of recording. In fact ‘Linda Paloma’ is far from a perfect recording but somehow I keep going back to it for reference purposes. I also make a big error in the video, it’s not a lie piano note but a low bass note I listen too! That’s the problem with not working from a script! 😉 Enjoy.
@@PearlAcoustics Thanks, Harley, for the thorough appraisel of Thomas' good work. There's always something interesting going on! OK...I have to admit to being intrigued with this bass note mentioned. I promise not to fall down that dangerous rabbit hole of seeking detail over music but could you give me an approximate timing for the sound you hear in Linda Paloma (or does it appear following most of the pauses?). Again, I'm just fascinated at your process - I won't go seeking odd notes and sounds instead of listening (promise!). Much appreciated, Paul.
@@PaulEldridge1 hi Paul, thanks for your comment. I am not sure if you read my answer to Pablo? But the bass note is a lower register bass guitar and not a Piano as I say in the video… having said that, it returns frequently but it occurs most pronouncedly at 2:15 just before he sings ‘like a wind that blows up in the night’. I have heard this song a thousand times and I know every nuance of it: How wide the Spanish guitars sound and the brightness of the harp and the small amount of sibilance in his voice. I find ‘imperfect’ recordings easier to detect how well an amplifier and other component behave. Hoping that helps? Enjoy 😉
@@PearlAcoustics Thanks Harley, that will help a great deal AND push my learning and appreciation a few points forward as well. As I listened again, just then, the bass (and the breadth of the sound as you deescribe) becomes more obvious to my ear ("guided listening"). Much appreciated. All the best for 2023!
Harley how do you like this vs pass xa25 and the sugden ?
Hi, good question. Of course it’s a very different amplifier. If it can be compared with either of the two, I would say it’s nearer to the Pass. Lots of slam and dynamics, without being harsh.
I personally like Thomas even if 90% of what he reviews is way more than I need. I could probably afford a fair amount of what he reviews if I wish to make a few lol... Lifestyle changes. But as I said I don't need a $$$$$ system. I'd not likely ever play louder than 85-90 Db, but more often than not I'd be listening at 65-70, maybe even Lower. But Thomas is an effecting individual whose reviews are always interesting. And I like his story telling. I also think his approach to reviews is exemplary. And why they are is he checks his feelings and perceptions against a panel of like minded friends. Friends who share some overriding principals the biggest being does it create or reproduce a sound quality they agree on. Is it good enough? lol . And only then he will tell them what it costs. And while we've never met in person we have had some good laughs and along with his reviews and story telling he's like a friend. And as that friend I knew his Amp would be incredible and I wish him all the success he can get. And that you have confirmed what I believed in it's quality and it's integrity to produce or translate an excellent sound stage, harmonics, that mystical quality of joy makes me very happy. And that's... Good Enough.
Dear James, indeed Thomas is a very likeable and gifted man. I agree with you that you don’t always need an expensive system to enjoy music at home. But for many, HiFi is a hobby and as such, hobbyists are bound to be fascinated by anything new, ancient or extraordinary. Enjoy!
I would love to own this amplifier. Would it sound ok with my B&W bookshelf speakers? Those are the only speakers that aren’t connected to my new Cinema 50. Retired now and I have jazz playing all day. Not sure how I would keep my wife from knowing how much it costs. I guess I will have to work on it 😊
Dear Sam, I am sure the Galion would be absolutely fine… but maybe what you have already can be as good, I don’t know. The Galion is a high quality amplifier sound wise, but is also a ‘lifestyle’ choice. Whatever you decide: enjoy!
The tone controls give you the option to back off the highs. With B&W speakers, its a good feature to have.
What are those tower speaker you have? What's the point of such a huge cabinet with such small drivers?
I prefer research first, just a free tip
The loudspeakers are our Sibelius loudspeakers. The large cabinets work in the same way as the body of a double bass, producing very low frequencies, even from a 4,5” driver. I hope that helps?
@@PearlAcoustics Wow, cool. Thanks for explaining. 😄👍
Wonderful it sounds really good. Looks? Have you seen the Italian crafted tube amps? It doesn't play at that level yet ...Cheers. If the amp did look like ultra hi end then again the price would also be at that level, tsk.
Hi Francis, indeed the looks are a bit ‘busy’ and not to everyone’s tastes. I take your point on price.
You need to replace tubes, so tube amps are high maintenance for sure. With shifting performance goal posts over time. That's why a noted British speaker brand (hint - "H") never evaluate their speakers in design stage with tube amps. The tube amps are not considered consistent from one day to another day due to the tubes natural deterioration. That tells you something.
Hi, thanks for your comment. In test labs, solid state makes perfect sense. We do that too. But at home relaxing, then other criteria can kick in. In my experience, on a good amplifier, tubes very rarely need replacing. I have tube amplifiers that I listen too everyday and have not changed a tube in over seven years.
Best Amp of 2024 by far. It makes tubes easy to use for the novice. The remote is just about perfect. The sound is what you expect from Thomas (Audiophile snob top quaility).
👍
Demo 1...most natural and liquid.... !.... liked demo 4 too....
Demo 3 was what I liked, but they all sounded great
Thanks for sharing.
I'm sure it must have been said before ,But I would like to see a film of you and Thomas having a chat about Hi-Fi , you both are singing from the same sheet .
Thanks Adrian, there is something of us taking about speaker design etc on his channel, it was a video interview of his… not sure where the link is. Hope that helps?
👍👍
So is it better than the LSA VT-150 KT-88 at $2,500?
If you don't need the Galion's flexibility and tone controls, Wally's KT-88 could be a better value.
Well, it is not a fair comparison. LSA for sure is one of the best values out there. It differs from the Galion that it is class AB and uses El34. It weighs 48 pounds. There is a reason why the TS120 weighs about 70 pounds. It has a crazy powerful transformer so the bass control is out of this world, enough to challenge solid-state amps. Not to mention the TS120 is a high current design unlike other tube amps so you get crazy dynamics with just 30w. For many people, the TS120 is an end-game amplifier so it caters to a different crowd that is willing to spend a bit more. EL34 tubes are great for vocal and although I have never heard the LSA (I actually turned them down for being the first to review it), I have no doubt it will sound AMAZING the LSA. However, at the end of the day, you are comparing apples (KT88 high current class A design) to oranges (EL34 class AB) here.
Hi Jeff, I have no idea, sorry. What I do know is that it is performing way above its price point and can be compared (sonically) with the Sugden and the PassLabs) for bass control, dynamics and just about everything sonically.
A very good looking amp (integrated amp?).
Yes it’s fully integrated
Harley - I appreciate your reviews very much. It seems this is a great amp by your description.
I hate to mention anything negative, but, I have listened to Linda Paloma several times now and I cannot hear a piano at all?! Harp, a couple guitars, violin, voice....I think the point is that it is traditional Mexican orchestration. I am not trying to embarrass you - I just know you have A LOT of experience with recording classical music and it just seems WEIRD that you would say piano when it is OBVIOUSLY a harp (or possibly a harp like traditional instrument).
Anyway, thanks for your contributions. And, like at least a few others on these comments I am looking forward to Part 3 on the Rega 10.
Hi Kerry! I would like to say you found the deliberate mistake but unfortunately, I honestly don’t know where my brain was at when I said that. I meant to say in the lower register of the acoustic bass but somehow my brain said piano, and I didn’t even think about it until after it went live! That’s the problem of working off script. Please forgive me and put it down to a ‘senior moment!’
Thank you so much for your kind appreciation. Pt. 3 comes out in mid January. It’s all in my head, I just need to commit it to film.
Happy end of year!
Harley
@@PearlAcoustics AHHH!!! I wouldn't have even mentioned it but I thought my system was suddenly so clouded that I couldn't hear what you were hearing! Thank god!!! Again - Thanks for your work!
@@kerryfarrell2787 no it wasn’t you Kerry! I feel so embarrassed
Interesting review thanks. But I was waiting for some Django!
Thanks! Not sure that copyright would let me…. 😕
Listening via iPad Pro to dac and to Sennheiser 660s ……:-)
And the unspoken
Willsenton…
I saw a picture of a cd with you speakers, but I can not find the 2 cds.. Aurore Dassesse & Aveline Gram Works By Brahms. & Aveline Gram Works By Brahms. The cd you reviewed on the amp is alright, but I believe the perfect vinyl to showcase the speakers & amp would be LOU REED-WALK ON THE WILD SIDE. I will have to go back & see how Thomas designed the amp. Also you are one of a few people that answer most comments, but I dont understand others that wants comments that puts on a video wont answer many comments. You work with reviewers like Thomas, but most others wont work with other reviewers.
No XLR input seems like a negative
Hi, XLR inputs on this amplifier’s topology would not make sense as they would not improve performance
Who wants to bet Thomas is grinning ear to ear reading the comment section?
Surprised he didn’t include balanced inputs. My Denafrips Pontus sounds better using its balanced outputs. No go for me.
It was an easy decision for me. Either I offer true XLR or no XLR. You will be surprised how many tube amps have 'true' XLR under $5k. The same reason why I took off XLR from my other upcoming products despite being given the option to have them. I don't believe in marketing gimmicks and only offer 'true' performing gear.
Hi Ben, architecturally, it wouldn’t make sense to add balanced inputs on this design, it would not improve the sound quality, in fact the opposite is true. So I understand it’s not for you
why use a Preamp???
Hi, not sure what you mean here…
@@PearlAcoustics its a Intergrated amp.. to test it use it as such..
@@reserva120 hi, I did use it as an integrated. I connected the turntable and the streaming device and cd directly to it.
@@PearlAcoustics ah okay , just you listed aPre amp "costing more than a few dollars " as part of the listening Kit:). I like Intergrated amps..
@@reserva120 ah, I think you mean the Lyngdorf TDAI 1120? That was used as a fixed output Dac.
Sorry but 95% of the points you make about the Galion amp is already included in the Doge 10 amp that I own including all the functions on the remote for less then half the price of the Galion. The Doge 10 does not have tone controls and the A,B and T options but for an extra $2500 is that really worth it? Give credit where credit is due.
Hi, you make a very good point here. I do not know anything about how the pricing came about and I do not advocate people changing equipment based upon a review. Having said that, I believe the Galion is more than just the feature differences. Ie the quality or specification of the components, and output transformers etc. Also, by following its story I can deduce that a great deal of R&D hours went into the Galion, which I expect is reflected in the price. For pricing, it’s best to ask Thomas.
Well, the Doge 10 for me is one of the most amazing amps ever built. I was the one who heavily recommended the Mk1. (Mk3 has different voicing) If you order a Doge 10, after shipping and customs, it is around $2800 actually now. Yes, in the past it was cheaper. I am not going to talk about the technical differences but let me tell you a true story. A Doge 10 owner messaged me, the second he powered up the Galion TS120 normal edition, he knew he was in a different league and he experienced a WTF moment. Then his friend brought over the SE version, and he had another WTF moment because the SE version is another level up from the normal edition. Is that worth the extra $700 (for the normal edition) or $1700 (for the special edition)to have a significant jump in performance, as well as customer support, (People don't realize how important this is until something goes wrong), will depend on the individual. Without a doubt, what you have there is an amazing amp but what is value is different for everyone.
@@ThomasAndStereo I'm sure the R& D and upgraded parts has made the standard Doge 10 a better sounding amp, my main point was that all the discussion about the A B switching and Biasing features as well as the remotes capabilities are all on the Doge 10 but when it was being described it sounded like these were all new things that you implemented in your "New" amp which simply isn't true. Every piece of electronics can usually be improved with better parts and a little knowhow. My main point was that this isn't a ground up design but a possibly better version of an existing one.
@@nelsonlevine7324 Yes, Harley did not know and you are correct in that sense. That is the part about trying to keep the video honest. Harley did not tell me what he will say and he did not show me the video before. Else, I would have corrected it.
@@ThomasAndStereo He probably was not familiar with the Doge 10 and all the functionality and honestly thought he was describing all the things you created not realizing that they were already part of the amp before you maximized it's potential.
My mom used to tell me “sucker!” 😂😂😂😂😂
Wow, if you Harley can give it your unqualified thumbs-up, I think I'm going to have to email Thomas right away.
It just so happens I'm in the market for an amp replacement and I'm looking for tube amps!
It is really good. I am featuring it again in a little video next week. Enjoy.
I want
😀
I think that this must be pretty darn good if you can't find anything negative to say. I am bothered by just one little thing, and that is the spelling of its name. I know that the spelling has nothing to do with the performance, and it's a pretty minor quibble, but it does bother me!
Ah… now I wondered that too, apparently the spelling is French, not English. Hence the one ‘L’.
Yes, I was mostly raised in Quebec Canada and here we speak French. My kids all go to French school and I wanted the French language to be part of my brand. Galion is French for Galleon.
Wow….hear all the harmonics……for such reviews that promised me heaven and wasted me a lot of money in my 40 years as an audiophile.
Hi Mario, I would hate to think someone wasted money purely on something I said. I am not a fan of buying and selling equipment, losing money on each transaction. The trick is to find equipment that sounds good and that you can feel happy with for decades. Best wishes
You spent the money. Nobody forced you to do so.
Sure it's fantastic but does look like an old electric bar heater with its protector on.
😀
I suppose that I could take out a home equity loan,,,,,,,,?
For $4500?
В хорошем ламповом усилителе не нужны все эти регуляторы и переключатели. Сделано для привлечения покупателей :-)
Hi, i agree a good tube amplifier does not ‘need’ but Thomas put them on for people who like to experiment. Not to compensate for any weakness but to help someone achieve exactly the sound they want without having to change their amplifier
@@PearlAcoustics Регуляторы - это всегда искажения. Добиваться желаемого звучания следует подбором компонентов! Это факт.
@@user-ll7xi7nh9r The tone control, when you don't use it, it bypasses tone control with a physical switch. You can see in the measurements the tone control circuit is taken out completely. I also made sure to use Japanese quality switches for tone control so they can last longer.
@@ThomasAndStereo Да, режим "direct " это правильно. Но в по настоящему хорошем усилителе не должно быть такого режима , как и регуляторов тембра. Ламповый усилитель не так прост, как кажется, его нужно понимать. Если не нравится звучание лампового усилителя, значит : 1 что то с усилителем не так 2 что то не так с владельцем усилителя :-)
@@user-ll7xi7nh9r But the amplifier is not always the problem. It could be the room, it could be the speaker, it could be the DAC. It is like eating food, just a bit too much salt can ruin the experience. Cut down on the salt by 5% and it is the best dish you have ever tried. Also, the tone control on the Galion is not like every other tone control on the market. I made a whole video on it and it targets a very specific frequency that most tone controls don't. Everything in engineering is a compromise, we look at the reward vs risk and for me, enjoying the music is more important than having the perfect engineer amp with amazing measurements. This is a hobby afterall.
Harley…I listened to "Linda Paloma" on Jackson Browne's "Pretender" Album on my system FOUR TIMES to see how "my"system handles that incredible piano note that you GUSH about in this video…...I thought that I was going insane…as I could not hear ANY PIANO on that song. I searched for the liner notes on the web. Turns out..I am sane…and stopped watching your video, as there is in-fact NO PIANO playing on that song. There is no kick-drum either:
3. LINDA PALOMA (4:05)
VIJUELLA, GUITAR & BACKGROUND VOCAL: LUIS F. DAMIAN
GUITARON, VIOLIN & BACKGROUND VOCAL: ROBERTO GUTIERREZ
HARP & BACKGROUND VOCAL: ARTHUR GERST
ARRANGED BY ARTHUR GERST
RECORDED BY GREG LADANYI
MILLONES DE GRACIAS A VAN DYKE PARKS
🤷🏻♂️😀
Dear Bob,
I am very sorry for the stupid mistake, I had made a correction in the description. I must have had a really stupid moment when I made my recording.?the bass note I wanted you to listen to was not the piano but the double bass at the end of each section. I hope you know where I mean? (In my brain for some inexplicable reason I mixed with Jacques Loussier, the word piano came out).
@@PearlAcoustics Harley…thanks for taking the time to reply…I will re-listen! 😀
You were so descriptive and enthusiastic I thought that "I" must be mistaken. I am not a young man and I thought that I was losing my grip! 😂
I read your description and can now re-engage. At least we are BOTH paying attention to the music. 👍🏼
@@bobb.9917 indeed, Bob, I have added to my comment in the description section in the box provided below the video. Again, very sorry! You’re not the first to discover my ‘blooper’
It should be sold as a package with the Sibelius! 😬
Interesting idea. Very difficult to achieve as Sibelius loudspeakers are each unique in terms of colour and finish and thus made to order, to a great extent.
AB is a little smoother… or class A is a little harsher…
Harley I was kinda dreading this review from you and I knew it was coming unfortunately.
My gut tells me that Doge knows how to make great amps.
Time to take a pause from your channel.
Regards,
Brian
I hope it was that bad! 😉
You forgot ‘You’re going to have the absolute worst possible customer service and struggle to get your money back from Doge if something breaks’
Hi, I think you buy from Thomas and Stereo, and as far as I know, he does everything possible to support his customers. I think his reputation is too important to risk any nonsense
And you don't need to buy a preamp....
Indeed
Very pretty, but what happens when the tubes inevitably burn out? Who makes the tubes?
Any great design is only as good as its weakest link. Here, the tubes are the weakest link.
Most tubes available in 2022 are surplus rubbish or cranked out by outdated factories located in Russia or parts of China.
It’s insane to invest in a tube amp today, much as people get a kick out of watching the lights glow.
All the tubes used are pretty common.
These come with psvane kt88c tubes. These ones are widely available in most countries for 200 a set. There are other in production kt88 tubes out there but this amp can also use 6550 tubes. 6550 tubes are very commonplace since they are popularly used in guitar amps.
I'm sorry... but after reading all those positive comments I felt it has to be said that first Pearl Accoustics sends their speaker to Thomas & Stereo and it receives a glowing review and now it's the other way around. to all viewers : please keep in mind that everyone on CZcams wants to sell sell sell. I'm not saying that the products under consideration aren't good products. They might well be. Just a small disclaimer you need to keep in mind.. a bad review is practically non existent...
Dear Nick, thank you for your comment. You make a good point here. And your airing of caution is quite right. However, I would like to make a little clarification, if I may?
The fact is that Thomas reached out to us to audition a pair of our loudspeakers. And he thenent them to a number of his friends who all seemed like them as much as he did. We didn’t approach him at all. I can not deny that his review has had a positive impact on our reputation, and has reflected what our clients having being telling us about our loudspeakers for a while.
In regards to Thomas’ Galion amplifier, because Thomas’s friend’s were saying positive things about it, and because I had been following its development, even contributing a little input on the tone control design, I was genuinely curious to find out how it sounds. As you have seen in my video I was impressed.
The reason why you’ll never see me give a bad review is because, if I don’t like something, I tell the designers and give them a chance to react. After all it’s only my opinion. I don’t want to take time preparing and making a bad review, I just don’t think it’s fair. That’s one reason why I don’t do many reviews. I am more interested in music. And in general, I am more comfortable being positive rather than negative. Especially in the public domain.
I hope that might give you some extra insight. Enjoy the music.
This is beefed up Prima Donna which i paid 1500.00 for even had a dac port,this item is s ripoff
Everything he wants can't be gotten from a piece of audio equipment
Most of this begins by saying how pretty the box is. Who cares? And now he talks about the pretty lights.