SLI-80HS Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier
For many years the SLI-80 integrated amplifier has been the standard by which all other vacuum tube integrated amplifiers are judged…period! As Cary Audio’s entry into the magic of vacuum tube music systems it’s nothing short of stunning. Thousands of music lovers worldwide have heard and seen the virtues of this spectacular vacuum tube integrated amplifier.
The new SLI-80HS (Heritage Series) maintains the integrity of its past. Its circuit uses very little feedback, which gives it incredible transparency and detail in the music while providing bass texture and impact that belies its rated power output. Solid-state rectification adds excellent pace to the music and offers improved dynamics and bass detail over earlier versions. The depth of sound and transparency will cause you to snap your head in disbelief as you look to see the musicians performing in front of you. A pair of toggle switches select either triode mode producing 40 watts per channel of pure Class A power or ultra-linear mode, which doubles power to 80 watts per channel in Class AB. If you’re listening to more subtle music and want to hear all of the inner detail and richness, select triode mode for the most lifelike imaging and tonal accuracy. Or, if you want to really let loose, switch to ultra-linear mode and enjoy the extra power and dynamics. Your choice!
For several years now, the world-renown loudspeaker company, Klipsch, has been using the SLI-80 at various audio shows worldwide in combination with their award-winning Heritage Series product line. The combination is amazing, from the famous Klipschorns to the Heresy III and all models in between. As a result of this collaboration, Cary Audio has partnered with Klipsch to design a version of the SLI-80 to directly complement their Heritage Series product line. Black Ash, Cherry, and Walnut wood side panels are available below as an additional accessory of the new SLI-80HS (Heritage Series) integrated amplifier to match the various finishes of the loudspeakers in the Klipsch Heritage Series. The visual effect is amazing!
The SLI-80HS cage cover helps secure your vacuum tubes from little ones running around, pets, or even just for extra protection! When purchasing a new SLI-80HS, you will have the option to add this to your order below, and it will come attached to your SLI-80HS with free shipping. You can choose to purchase this separately later, but shipping charges will be applied.
Products purchased with an upgrade(s) are not eligible for return or credit, and sales are final. A 30-day audition does not apply.
Retail $4,995.00
Factory Direct $4,995.00
The following section describes the SLI-80HS basic specifications. The specifications are subject to change without notice or obligation.
Circuit Type | Push-Pull Ultra-Linear Amplification Pure Class AB1 |
Power Output | 40 watts/channel – Triode 80 watts/channel – Ultra-Linear |
Tube Complement | 2 – 6922 Input Buffer Preamp 2 – 6SN7 Pre-Driver/Phase Inverter 4 – KT88 Output Tubes (or 6550, EL34, 6CA7, KT77, KT90, KT120) |
Input Sensitivity | .45 volts for full output |
Input Impedance | 100,000 ohms |
Noise and Hum | 82dB below rated output |
Frequency Response | 19Hz to 23KHz +/- .5 dB at full power output |
Output Taps | 8 Ohms, 4 Ohms |
Maximum Gain | 34dB |
Power Consumption | 166 watts - Operation 83 watts - Standby |
Inputs | 3 Pairs Single-ended RCA |
Outputs | 1 Pair Speaker Posts (Switch for 4 and 8 Ohm Selectable) 1 Pair RCA for Subwoofer, ¼” Headphone |
Output Polarity | Non-Inverting (any input) |
Warn-Up Time | Approximately 3 minutes |
Break-In Period | 100 hours of music playing time |
Finish | Black Powder Coated Matte Chassis with Silver or Black Aluminum Faceplate and Knobs |
Weight | 42 lbs. |
Dimensions | 7" H x 17" W x 16" D |
Cover of Stereophile Magazine's October 2019 Issue
SLI-80HS Review by Ken Micallef on Stereophile
SLI-80HS Review by Henry Clifford on Residential Tech Today
SLI-80HS Review by Douglas Moore on The Sound Advocate
PROFESSIONAL REVIEWS OF THE SLI-80:
Dean Seislove on Positive Feedback Online
Graham Abbott on Positive Feedback Online