The Vincent SA-T7 preamp is a true-bred valve concept with an integrated D/A converter. And here we’ve also come full circle with the art of German engineering. Compared against the simplest run-of-the-mill valve circuits, the Vincent designers have put their shoulders to the wheel here: around an NOS CV6189 clamp grid pentode they developed a new pentode circuit, which is already patent pending.

On a straight path

This circuit module was given the name »Vimala« by its designers, meaning »pure«, »transparent« and »clear« in Sanskrit – I’m eager to know if the amp can also meet the prompted expectations when run in a musical application. As to the quality of workmanship, the preamp is on par with the power amps. It is not quite as massive, but perfectly crafted: Nothing is rattling, and the switches and rotary knobs are a haptic pleasure. On the front panel we see four rotary knobs: two of them are used in the classic style for input selection and volume control, then there are two other controls for a sound compensation. Hence the owner can use the preamp to correct potential influences from suboptimal room characteristics. Of course, the equalisation network may also be turned off completely.

Like with the monos, the centre of the preamp’s front panel is adorned by a valve in a display window, which may also set an optical highlight here, supported again by the level 1 backlit illumination. The SA-T7 offers six inputs for line-level sources, whereby one input can be used to access the D/A converter. The preamp comes with a remote control of the finer grade. Provided only with the basic functions – volume, source selection and mute function – and made of high-class aluminium, it lies phantastically in your hand. I really can’t stand plastic remotes overladen with functions, so I’m very much delighted about this design version.