Musica Bella
Bella 88
 by Response Audio
Single Ended KT88 Stereo Amplifier

 

The " Bella 88" is a single ended power amplifier designed around what we beleive to be the best Audio Note Kit designs using 6550/KT88 tube types. The 88 amplifier yields about 15 watts in pure Class A, single-ended pentode operation. It uses a single KT88 output tube per channel.

After several years in development, The Bella 88 amplifier is ready to serve you with 15 watts of pure Class A single ended bliss. This is accomplished by using natural materials for the chassis, top rated components and proper design techniques throughout. After several years of 'listening' to different mediums, we have found our chassis and design concepts allow the Bella 88 to produce a presentation that is like live music rather than a synthetic hi-fi sound.

The heart of any decent tube component is the power supply. The power supply is choke regulated using a single 5U4 tube for the rectifier.

Chassis:

Our chassis uses a unique construction. As can be seen on our "Bella 88 Build Page", we use a sub-chassis or "cassette" that is then installed into the outer shell which is our main chassis. This chassis design allows for superior vibration and resonance control. This also allows the transformers, power supply and analog circuit to all be assembled on separate platforms preventing interference with each other.

The  chassis is then lined with a copper foil to further prevent any interference. This not only allows proper room and layout of the power supply but also prevents interference with the analog circuit providing a dead quiet, black background.

Many custom chassis design available. Just give us a call with your request.

The Circuit:

The Bella 88 uses a single 6SN7GT dual triode in the input stage operating in an unusually high current mode, the gain control optional volume potentiometer is placed after the first gain stage to allow the amplifier to be driven by any source with a minimum of noise introduced by this first stage. The 6SN7GT input stage feeds two 12AX7s used in the driver stage.

Feature Overview:

  • Star grounding technique used throughout

  • The analog and power supply circuits are 100% P-T-P (point-to-point) wired.

  • High purity solid silver (or copper) signal path wiring

  • Coupling capacitors are the highly regarded V-Cap Teflon capacitors (others available upon request) providing a seductive and emotional presentation that will have you calling in sick to work.

  • A fused output cathode provides extended protection

  • Silver Cardas RCA input connectors

  • Silver XLR input connectors on balanced versions

  • Cryogenic treated silver fuse holder

  • Cryogenic treated silver IEC connector

  • WBT speaker binding post

  • Estimated weight: 55 lbs.

  • Hand built in New York USA

The Chassis:

The chassis of the Bella 88 is constructed of  varying thicknesses of  Baltic Birch ply. 1-1/2" at the front and sides and 1/2" top with the circuitry built on heavy gauge copper lined aluminum. The rear panel is constructed of 1/4" acrylic.

The Bella 88 is a complex product to build. Every aspect of this amplifier is hand built. Expect estimated turnaround times of  8-12 weeks.

For a no-compromise version of the Bella 88, be sure to check out the Estremo 88 dual chassis design using 100% polypropylene capacitors through the circuitry and power supply and a whole lot more.

Prices Plus shipping from Response Audio, Endicott, New York 13760, USA
 Bella 88 Price starting at $8,299
Options and Upgrades  
Volume Control +125
Allows the single input signal to go through a custom stepped attenuator using Dale RN 1% resistors. Consider if using only a single source. Can still be used with a preamp as well.
Remote Volume +479
Allows the single input signal to go through a custom TAP remote system by Bent Audio. The PRM-1 level control readout is located on the front panel of the analog chassis. Remote circuit powered by it's own dedicated DC power supply.
 Chassis finish options No Charge - Real wood veneers

Call - Real wood burl veneers
Call - Hardwood chassis' designs are based on a per order basis depending on the wood of choice. For available wood veneer and/or hardwood options, click HERE
Tube Upgrade We recommend looking at our Recommended Tubes page and choose a tube that best meets your preferences. You can order these tubes direct from this page and have then sent directly to us or you.
Warranty
  • 5 Years (transferable) on all parts and labor
  • 90 Days on supplied tubes
Unauthorized parts substitution will void Warranty. Bella Extreme is the ONLY authorized facility to make any changes or modifications to the circuitry.
Availability Now ! All units are built to order by hand in our commercially located workshop in Endicott, New York, USA. Lead time is typically 8-12 weeks from order to shipment depending on the individual configuration and work load.

 

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