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AGD Production Vivace
Design Philosophy
The AGD Vivace MKii Monoblock, is the most advanced Hi-End Power Amplifier in the market. First to use the unique GaNTube™ technology with Gallium Nitride Power-Stage integrated in a Vacuum Tube. The Gallium nitride components are the key to the reference level performance of the AGD Vivace Monoblocks.
To achieve the highest-performance in audio reproduction, switching topologies must achieve nearly ideal switching waveforms, completely oscillation-free, to minimize distortion but most importantly, to preserve the harmonic content present in the original input signal and avoid 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 GaNTubeTM power stage, simplifies 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.
With the seamless ability to drive any loudspeakers, 200W of power, 48,000µF of super audio grade capacitor reservoir, and the fastest slew-rate, the GaNTube™ Technology delivers the purest sonic experience.
Thanks to the Gallium-Nitride power stage intrinsic characteristics, the virtually stray-inductance free package, and a state of the art layout of the power module, the rise time and fall time of the Vivace’s GaNTubeTM power stage are fully symmetrical at ~15ns. The output waveform at the switching node of the Gallium-Nitride power stage (pre-LC filter) is completely oscillation free even with a slew rate of 3700V/µs!
This oscilloscope snap-shot of the output power stage half-bridge switching node, is a dramatic evidence of the tremendous difference in switching speed between the Gallium Nitride Power MOSFET and the state of the art Silicon Power MOSFET equivalent.
The combination of low noise design technique implemented and the best practice for the internal board layout, the RF quality BNC connectors for the analog signals, are the key contributors of the excellent noise floor of the Vivace Monoblocks and extremely low distortion.
- Switching node waveforms ~4000V/μs.
- No oscillation during rise and fall time.
- No undesired harmonic residuals or other artifacts are transferred to the output filter
- This extremely clean switching characteristic is the unique feature of the GaNTube power stage
- Comparison between switching waveform at full voltage between GaN and Silicon based MOSFETs
- GaN is ~10x faster that standard MOSFET
- Output noise level with no input signal
- THD+N @ 0db output, 4ohm, 1kHz
- XLR Input (40kohm input impedance)
AGD Vivace MKii Monoblock Power Amplifier
” The “Vivace” Monoblock is a unique blend of avant-garde industrial design, and leading edge power electronics into a superb Hi-End Audio amplifier that delivers an unprecedented sublime and incredible realistic audio reproduction experience “.
Main Features & Characteristics
- Single Channel Class-D Amplifier
- Fully integrated in Glass Tube Enclosure
- Gallium Nitride MOSFET Power Stage
- Up to 250W 4Ω
- 800kHz PWM
- ≥ 94% Efficiency
- Noise floor at ≤ -130db
- Fully protected (OVT, OVC, DC protection)
The amps can be feed balanced or through RCA-inputs. An input selector, toogles the signal input feed from the connectors to the analog board. The power inlet is high-grade quality with medical standard EMI filter and with voltage selector for operation Speaker terminals are simply made, effective and can handle cables of large cross sections.
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AGD Production Vivace
AGD Production's Vivace mono is a class‑defying high‑power amplifier built around Alberto Guerra's GaNTube technology, marrying GaN MOSFET switching with a modular, tube‑like output module. Reviewers from Dawid Grzyb and Pete Davey highlight its rare combination of slam, speed and liquid smoothness — fast, grounded bass, vivid midrange presence and airy, non‑fatiguing treble. The Vivace delivers very low distortion, broad bandwidth and high efficiency, translating into arresting dynamics, precise imaging and a vast, clean soundstage. Fit and finish are premium: billet‑milled enclosures, illuminated acrylic tops and dead‑quiet operation while offering swap‑able GaNTubes for voicing tweaks. Ideal for listeners who want tube‑like warmth without tube maintenance, Vivace stakes a defensible claim as a premium high‑end monoblock.
Pros
- Exceptional dynamics and driving control—delivers strong slam, transient speed and the headroom to drive difficult speakers.
- Tube‑like midrange warmth and aliveness combined with high resolution—offers a warm, sensuous midband without losing detail.
- Innovative, modular GaNTube design and premium build—swap‑able GaNTubes, illuminated acrylic top and billet‑milled chassis speak to thoughtful engineering and cosmetics.
- Low measured distortion, wide bandwidth and high efficiency—technical specs translate into clean, expansive imaging and excellent noise floor.
Sound Quality
92/100
Dynamics
93/100
Reviewers repeatedly praise the Vivace's slam, shove and transient readiness — described as 'fierce and propulsive', 'illumination, torque' and 'very clean loud dynamics.' Spec'd at 125W into 8Ω (250W into 4Ω) with >94% efficiency and an 800kHz PWM/GaN power stage, the amp delivers high headroom and current capability for its class. Monoblock implementation (reviewers refer to 'monos') further supports exceptional control and speaker drive, justifying a top-tier dynamics rating for its power class.
Soundstage Imaging
91/100
Multiple reviewers highlight expanded insight, on-stage air and imaging precision — 'vast soundscapes liberated from veils', 'highlight tiny dust motes suspended in virtual space' and 'I really felt like I was there.' The Vivace maintains stable channel separation and scale even at demanding levels, giving it strong spatial performance for a high-power solid-state/GaN design. Imaging remains incisive without sounding etched or fatiguing.
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Build Quality
92/100
Fit-and-finish receives high marks: solid construction, attractive illuminated top, dead-quiet operation and cool running at high SPL. Internals are praised (48,000µF reservoir cited, careful PCB/layout and RF-quality connectors) and the GaNTube presentation is well executed. Monoblock chassis and apparent attention to power supply and thermal design support a strong build-quality score.
Value for Money
89/100
Retail price around $15,000/pr is clearly premium, but reviewers use strongly positive language ('disruptive', 'redefines Class D', 'can change one’s mind') and point to operational advantages over traditional tubes (no warm-up, lower running costs). Considering the Vivace's performance, monoblock architecture, measured specs (125W/250W, >94% efficiency) and described sonic payoff, reviewers imply the price is defensible in its segment—hence a justified-premium rating rather than neutral or bargain.
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