Cary Audio CAD 211FE Monoblock Power Amplifier

It is well known that using monoblock amplifiers, as opposed to both channels together as a stereo chassis, is the best way to get powerful and lifelike music. By using separate power supplies that can be much more massive, each amplifier can have more dynamic power and be quieter. Keeping two separate amplifiers also makes any inter-channel crosstalk in the amplifiers impossible, so separation is better, meaning your soundstage and musical imaging will be larger and more well-defined. The simple act of separating the two channels provides a lot of distinct advantages, but also increases the investment because of needing to double up on power supplies and chassis parts.

Is this extra expense worth it? One listen to the CAD-211FE will convince you that it most certainly is. With over 70 watts of class-A power, automatically transitioning as needed to over 150 watts in class-AB, this powerhouse will effortlessly drive nearly any speaker to realistic live performance levels. It includes a bias meter on the front panel to help you maintain your amplifier at its peak operating level, and offers both XLR balanced and RCA single-ended inputs to match your system. Fully differentially-balanced construction, zero global feedback, and huge reserves of current and power mean that your system will come alive with all types of music and movies.

The following section describes the CAD-211FE basic specifications. The specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.

Circuit Type Class A, Class A/B, Class B, Pure Balanced Design
Power Output Up to 150 watts class B
110 Watts, Class A/B
70 Watts, Class A
Inputs Single-Ended RCA; Balanced XLR
Input Sensitivity 2.0 Volts for full output power
Input Impedance 100k Ohms – RCA unbalanced
200k Ohms – Balanced (XLR)
Noise and Hum >80 dB below rated output
Frequency Response 20 Hz to 20 KHz, + 0.5 dB
Tube Complement 1 ea – 6CA7 Current Source Tube
1 ea – 6SL7 Input Tube
2 ea – 300B Driver Stage Tubes
2 ea – 845 Output Tubes
Power Transformer(s) 1 ea – EI Laminate, 200% Duty Cycle
Output Transformer(s) 1 ea – EI Laminate, Air Gap, 200% Duty Cycle
Resistors 1% Metal Film
Capacitors Cardas Gold Film and Foil
Power Supply Capacitors 4 ea – 1500µF @ 450 VDC
AC Cord 3 Conductor, Detachable
AC Power Requirements 117/234 VAC @ 50/60 Hz
Consumption 280 watts – Operation
76 watts – Standby
Warm-Up Time 5 Minutes
Break-In Time 100 hours of playing time
Finish Anthracite black chassis with silver or black aluminum faceplate
Weight 90 lbs
Dimensions 10″ H x 12.25″ W x 24 ” D

More info here.