94%
AGD Production Audion
Design Philosophy
The new AGD “THE AUDION” MkIII is one of the most Compact Amplifier Design in Hi-End Audio.
“THE AUDION” Monoblock uses the unique GaNTube™ technology with Gallium Nitride MOSFET based Power-Stage, fully enclosed in a Glass Tube.
The Gallium Nitride Power MOSFETS are the unique technology design advantage of AGD Productions, and are the key to the reference level performance of all AGD amplifiers.
With the seamless ability to drive any load, “THE AUDION” can deliver an unmatched sonic experience that only SET designs have been able to provide so far.
Now with 200W of power capability, a further improved voltage slew rate, and with 30,000µF of super audio grade capacitor reservoir, “THE AUDION” MkIII is uniquely capable of sustaining the most resounding bass punches while delivering the finest harmonic content of any vocal and musical instruments ensemble.
Crafted in a minimalistic ultra-compact solid aluminum case, “THE AUDION” has one single-ended and one fully balanced XLR input, (40kOhm std. and 600ohm upon request), enabling a perfect match with any direct source units (DAC) or preamplifiers in the market.
AGD “THE AUDION” MkIII Monoblock amplifiers are built around the same output power stage used in the AGD Vivace.
To achieve the highest performance in audio reproduction, AGD “THE AUDION” mono-block employs the same fundamental technology pioneered by the AGD Vivace design.
As with the AGD Vivace, also in AGD “THE AUDION” MkIII design we were able to achieve nearly ideal switching waveforms, completely oscillation-free.
Thus, preserving the harmonic content present in the original input signal and avoiding the superimposition of any additional artifacts that alter the overall spectrum and the spatiality of the music reproduction.
The Gallium Nitride power MOSFETs used in the GaNTubeKT88MkIII power stage simplify this challenge through its ability to efficiently switch at much higher slew rates than any silicon-based power MOSFET, with almost perfect (book-like) behavior and oscillation-free switching.
Residual THD+N @ 0db output, 4ohm, 1kHz
XLR Input (40kohm input impedance)
FFT Spectrum @ -20db (100mV)
XLR Input
PWM Frequency waveform at V switching point.
Voltage rise time waveform.
Switching voltage at V point >6000V/µs
Voltage fall time waveform.
Switching voltage at V point >6000V/µs
115 Years of AUDION Evolution 1906 ~2021
Lee de Forest’s triode tube (Audion) from 1906.
- Top metal electrode is the plate.
- Grid is the bent metal wire partly visible.
- The most advanced power stage in high-end audio.
- Gallium Nitride MOSFET-based power stage.
- Fully integrated in a Glass Tube (Octal Socket)
- Extended bandwidth (±0.5db 0-50KHz)
- 200W, 4ohm (>30A max current capability).
- 800KHz PWM (GaNTubeKT88 MKII)
- 40kOhm input impedance.
- <-140db noise floor.
Main Features & Characteristics:
1. Power Entry Module
2. Fuse Holder
3. Input Voltage Selector
4. ON-OFF Switch
5. SPEAKER OUTPUT POSITIVE TERMINAL
6. SPEAKER OUTPUT NEGATIVE TERMINAL
7. Analog Input Selector Switch
8. RCA Single-ended analog input
9. XLR Balanced analog input
Dealers selling AGD Production near you
AGD Production Audion — GaNTube speed, tube-like soul
The Audion monoblock channels Gallium Nitride switching into a compact, tube‑styled chassis to deliver remarkably controlled, visceral music reproduction. Reviewers including Rick Becker and Michael Zisserson highlight its exceptional dynamics, taut bass, crystalline midrange and an airy, low‑noise treble. The GaNTube Class‑D output yields near‑reference transparency (THD+N ~0.005%) and expansive imaging, while the replaceable glass‑enveloped amplifier module and >94% efficiency make it a space‑saving, high‑impact option. Ideal for listeners with demanding speakers who want tube‑like musicality plus modern current delivery, the Audion pairs technical authority with an aesthetic that reviewers say outperforms expectations for its class.
Pros
- Powerful, tightly controlled dynamics and bass authority capable of driving difficult loudspeaker loads (measured control down into sub‑20Hz in reviews).
- Transparent, tube‑like timbre with a crystalline midrange, refined treble and wide, precise soundstage.
- Ingenious compact GaN design with a replaceable GaNTube module, high efficiency and distinctive glass‑envelope build that combines refinement with upgradeability.
&
Cons
- The MkII GaNTube upgrade is an additional expense for earlier owners (noted around $2,000 per pair).
- Reviewers recommend substantial break‑in (on the order of ~100–168 hours) before the amplifier reaches its full sonic plateau.
Sound Quality
94/100
Dynamics
95/100
Multiple reviewers highlight exceptional control, slam and speed: reviewers note bass control down to 18Hz, "dynamics explode," and effortless current delivery (reviewers report ~85–100W into 8Ω and doubling into 4Ω with >30A capability). The Audion is a GaN/Class D monoblock with very high efficiency (>94%) and reviewers explicitly describe it as unflappable and able to drive difficult loads, supporting a near-reference dynamics rating.
Soundstage Imaging
93/100
Reports of exceptional width, depth and imaging precision ('extends beyond the boundaries of the room', '8–10 rows back' imaging) with clear instrument placement and hall envelopment. Reviewers note that spatial cues remain intact even with complex material, indicating stable channel separation under load.
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Build Quality
91/100
Monoblock construction, compact/lightweight chassis (approx. 7.5x5.5x7.5 in, 5lbs), high-efficiency switching supply and replaceable amplifier module are repeatedly mentioned. A distinctive contemporary chassis with beveled Plexiglas, careful packaging (pelican cases, bamboo tube packaging for tubes) and solid specs (94% efficiency, professional packaging) support a strong build-quality score.
Value for Money
96/100
Multiple reviewers call the Audion a 'giant killer' and state its sonic performance is 'on par with the best regardless of price.' With listed prices cited in reviews (~$6,800–$7,500 each) and the provided price range ($7,850–$8,600), reviewers nonetheless emphasize that the performance (100W@8Ω / 200W@4Ω spec, high current capability, very low noise and low THD) justifies the premium and represents exceptional value in its competitive segment.
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