Typical price: £1,500
What is it: Multiple valve-based hi-fi amplifier, compatible with iPod
What we think: A testament to the sonic advantages to valve-based amps, despite its inherent fragility and size
What you need to know
Reviewed on: 18 August 2008
Tags: fatman, electronic, sound quality, headphone
We like:
Incredible sound quality with certain types of music; stunning design and build
We don't like:
Comparatively poor iPod dock; valves are extremely fragile
Also known as:
Fatman 452; Fatman iTube 452 with ValveDock
You might also need:
Arcam rDock; high-end speaker cable and wiring; iPod
CNET.co.uk judgement:
A tribute to the advantages of valve-based amplifiers, offering stunning sound quality in a package that will make even transistor amp fans weak at the knees
Fatman iTube 452 History
28 Jul 2008 in Crave
Exclusive hands-on with the Fatman iTube 452: Valve chubster
We've got our hands and speakers on the new Fatman iTube 452 -- a valve-based amplifier geared towards the lossless-loving iPod users. Ever wondered what that iPod classic can really sound like?
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