When it was launched in the early 1990s, originally as a kit offered through Hi-Fi News magazine and subsequently as a regular EAR product, the then EAR 859 integrated amplifier caused quite a stir. Why? Because it was designed by Tim de Paravicini, the man who almost single-handedly started the so-called valve renaissance in England. Since then the 859 has been improved and slightly increased in power to become the 869.

The 869 is based on Tim de Paravicini's ETM design 'enhanced triode mode' unique to EAR. Indeed unique, and able to bring us a unique sound - a triode presentation but with a certain 'grunt' normally not associated with these types of amplifier design.

The 869 has become a world renowned amplifier - choose your loudspeakers carefully as the 869 has only 15 watts of power on tap. But associate the 869 with the correct loudspeakers and you will be rewarded generously.

Output power - 15 wpc / 5 X inputs / tape / 1 pair direct inputs / output impedance choice of 4/8 or 8/16 ohms -TUBES - 2 X PL519, 4 X PCC88