Quad Vena II Integrated Amp Package Deal
As if the Vena II wasn't sufficiently enticing as a value for money buy, Quad will also sell you the basic grey amplifier in a package with its excellent S-1 bookshelf/standmount speakers, finished in Black Ash. This 'just add source' set-up will set you back £999, saving £150 on buying the two items separately. My interest piqued, I put in a call, and Quad supplied a pair of the 28.5cm-tall speakers for me to try with the Vena II. Mixing the 45W output of the amp with the speakers' 10cm mid/bass unit and bespoke ribbon tweeter – surely an echo of the company's very early Corner Ribbon Speaker – created a sound not just very much of a piece but also striking considering the space-saving appeal of the two. And don't be put off by the 'ho hum' impression possibly conveyed by that Black Ash finish: this is no cheap vinyl wrap, but testament to the high quality available from parent IAG's Chinese woodworking shop.