Performer s1200

The powerful stereo amplifier

This impressive stereo power amplifier leads even the most demanding speakers to soundscapes beyond your expectations. With a power amplification of 2 x 520 W (4 Ω) [2 x 550 W (2 Ω); 2 x 300 W (8 Ω)], this completely analog amplifier easily controls any loudspeaker.

 

Thanks to the VOLTAiR technology the performance of the s1200 is detail-rich, vivid, honest and plain simply beautiful.

Better safe than sorry

The Performer s1200 has a protection circuit against DC voltage and against overheating. If direct current (DC) is detected, the output stage switches off automatically and the Protect LED lights up red.

To protect the s1200 against the unlikely event of overheating, a temperature sensor at the heatsinks continously monitors the temperature of the device. The TEMP LED lights up yellow when the Performer s1200 is getting too hot.

As a result of this the output stage is switched off and the fans run on high-speed until the device has cooled down.

Freedom of choice

The Performer s1200 features a stereo pair of XLR and RCA inputs. This makes it compatible with all preamps on the market without the use of adapters. The stereo input can be selected via the Input Select switch on the rear panel.

Trim to fit

With reference to the Performer s1200, “fit” means adapted.

 

You can adapt the input sensitivity in 0.5 dB steps from 0 dB to -5.5 dB. In contrast to a panorama potentiometer in a preamplifier, this trim switch is the more audiophile solution. The optimal operating range of the loudspeakers and preamplifier can be perfectly adjusted this way.

Power to the speakers

The loudspeaker binding posts can accommodate banana plugs as well as a stranded wire with a diameter of up to 4 mm. Thus, any common type of speaker cable can be used. However, we do not recommend connecting a speaker with less than 2 ohms impedance.

Trigger me

The standby mode of the power amplifier can be switched on and off using the AMP CTL connection between a preamplifier such as the Director Mk2.

To do this, connect the 3.5 mm phone jacks with a cable with 3.5 mm mono or stereo jack plugs. Thanks to its 12 V trigger input, third party preamps can also switch the Performer s1200’s standby mode on and off.

Full power

The Performer s1200 features individual amplification stages for voltage and power amplification, which ensures a perfect operating of the class-AB amplifier circuit.

Thanks to each stage’s own negative feedback path, it is ruled out that feedbacks from the loudspeaker are interacting with the input stage – this way the SPL VOLTAiR Technology can play out its full performance.

 

A class of its own

Conventional solid-state power amplifiers tend to operate in a critical range of the built-in components – this results in unpleasant harmonical artifacts. Tube power amplifiers also distort at their limit but their characteristical behaviour softens this roughness and harshness.

Non the less this is a falsified representation of the sound image. Thanks to VOLTAiR Technology, the Performer s1200 can process much higher levels without even coming near to a critical range. All components constantly operate in the optimal range. The result is a very pleasant, natural and relaxed sound experience. Enjoy your music in every detail and without any listening fatigue.

Keep cool

Inside the Performer s1200, six fans usually do nothing at all, because 90 % of the heat is passively dissipated via massive heat sinks.

 

Should it nevertheless become really loud for a really long time, the processor-controlled fans remain

 

virtually inaudible at only 19 dB (A).

 

During power-up, the fans of the Performer s1200 briefly rotate at a higher speed to remove dust of themselves and surrounding components.

 

Sounds good

With all devices of the Professional Fidelity series we develop not only according to plan, but also by ear. Many important components are installed on the circuit boards using Through-hole technology. This way we can ensure that we can use the best sounding components.

The VOLTAiR Technology

The 120V technology is our reference technology. The 120V technology is unique in the world. It operates at a DC voltage of 120 volts. This is four times that of IC-based semiconductor op-amps. In our Professional Fidelity series, we refer to this unsurpassed technology as VOLTAiR technology.

The highest possible audio quality requires the highest possible audio operating voltage.

The 120V technology works with +/-60 V. To be able to handle such a high voltage, we have developed special proprietary operational amplifiers that can operate with a DC voltage of +/-60 V: the SPL 120V SUPRA operational amplifiers. This high voltage would destroy conventional components and operational amplifiers.

 

The 120V technology achieves exceptional technical specifications and sonic benefits. Technically, in terms of dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratio and headroom. Sonically, in terms of richness of detail and an absolutely relaxed listening experience.

 

By the way, the “120V” in the name of the technology has nothing to do with the local mains voltage from the mains power socket. This is about the operating voltage inside the device with which the audio signals are processed.

 

The mains voltage from the mains power socket is transformed to the required secondary voltage in the device’s internal linear power supply with toroidal transformer. Rectifiers convert this AC voltage into DC voltage required in the audio device.

 

Comparison

Most audio devices work with an internal operating voltage of +/-15 volts and can thus process a maximum input level of +21.5 dBu. If a DAC, for example, has an output level of +22 dBu at 0 dBFS, level peaks of the music material would already cause overloads in the input stage of the device. All components in the audio device often operate at their limits. The result is an unsteady sound that causes stress and faster ear fatigue.

SPL devices with VOLTAiR technology can handle input levels of +32.5 dBu thanks to the higher internal operating voltage of +/- 60 volts – thus offering 12 dB more headroom. All components consequently operate continuously in the optimum operating range. The result is a very pleasant, natural and relaxed sound experience. So you can enjoy your music in every detail.

These diagrams clearly show the superiority of the VOLTAiR technology in comparison to other circuits with lower, common operating voltages.

For audiophiles and professional sound engineers who demand uncompromising audio fidelity and power, the SPL Audio Performer s1200 Stereo Power Amplifier delivers a listening experience that brings every detail to life with clarity and precision. Whether you are driving high-end studio monitors or powering a sophisticated home audio system, this amplifier provides the muscle and accuracy needed to reproduce sound as the artist intended. It solves the common problem of distortion and lack of control in power amplification by offering robust output and meticulous engineering that elevates your audio environment.

At the heart of the Performer s1200 is an internal linear power supply featuring a shielded toroidal transformer rated at 1440 VA, ensuring stable and clean power delivery. This means your audio signal remains pure without the interference or noise that can plague lesser amplifiers. The high operating voltages of +/- 80 V in the power stage allow the amplifier to deliver up to 550 watts of continuous RMS power per channel into 2 ohms, 520 watts into 4 ohms, and 300 watts into 8 ohms. For the user, this translates into the ability to drive demanding loudspeakers with ease, maintaining dynamic range and impact even at high volume levels.

The low harmonic distortion figures, less than 0.09% at 2 and 4 ohms and a remarkably low 0.04% at 8 ohms, ensure the sound remains clear and free from coloration. This means you hear your music or audio content exactly as it was recorded, without unwanted artifacts. Coupled with an output impedance of less than 0.031 ohms and a damping factor greater than 290 at 1 kHz with 8 ohms, the Performer s1200 offers tight speaker control that reduces distortion caused by speaker cone movement, resulting in tighter bass and cleaner transient responses.

Connectivity is designed to suit professional and audiophile needs, with balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs. The input impedance of 20 kΩ and input sensitivity set at 10.5 dBu allow seamless integration with a wide range of preamplifiers and audio sources. Users can fine-tune input levels from 0 dB down to -5.5 dB in precise 0.5 dB steps to match their system perfectly, ensuring optimal signal-to-noise ratio and volume control. The output connections use screwable binding posts compatible with 4 mm cables and banana plugs, providing secure and reliable speaker connections essential for consistent performance.

Physically, the amplifier’s compact dimensions of 276 mm width, 205 mm height, and 345 mm depth make it suitable for both studio racks and high-end audio furniture. Weighing 25.1 kg, its substantial build reflects the quality components inside, contributing to vibration damping and thermal stability. The unit’s low noise floor at -123 dB (A-weighted) guarantees that even the subtlest audio nuances are preserved without background hiss or hum. Additionally, the amplifier’s power management is efficient, with a maximum power consumption of 1440 VA and an idle consumption of only 50 W, helping reduce energy use during standby or low-activity periods.

Whether used in a professional mixing environment, a high-fidelity home theater, or a dedicated listening room, the SPL Audio Performer s1200 Stereo Power Amplifier provides the reliability and sonic excellence required for critical listening. Its robust feature set, combined with a meticulous design philosophy, inspires confidence that your audio system is performing at its absolute best. Investing in the Performer s1200 means securing an amplifier that won’t just meet your expectations but redefine them, delivering power, precision, and purity every time you listen.