Ken Kessler

At last, an output transformerless tube amplifier that needn't play second fiddle to transistors, says Ken Kessler, as he hears the GM 200

Given that few people will defend tube/transistor hybrids, how do you go about satisfying the valve-oriented consumer who wants his or her amp to have everything under one cage? And without simply adding to the buttonry? Italian company GRAAF (Gruppo Richerche Audio Alta Fidelta) has as its slogan 'II Suono Fatto A Mano', which I think translates into 'Hand-Made Sound'. This is about as cool a way of saying 'Lunatic purism' as I can imagine.

This month, we review: Leonard Bernstein, Eagles, Elton John and Peggy Lee.

This month, we review: Marshall Crenshaw, The Boneshakers, Taj Mahal & Ry Cooder and British Mod Sounds Volume 2.

This month, we review: Carmen Sandim, Cantus, Mac Davis and Girls With Guitars Gonna Shake!