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Boulder Amplifiers 1162
The art of technological progress, beautifully expressed in the art of visual design, in an amplifier of truly remarkable ability. Let us present to you the Boulder 1162 Stereo Power Amplifier, awe-inspiring and modern, yet staying true to Boulder’s long-standing guiding principle: maximize performance. Every circuit has been refined and every mechanical detail has been optimized. Everything about the 1162 is the culmination of the 40 years of engineering prowess. As a result, it is exactly what you would expect: brilliant.
300 watts of output power can drive any reasonable loudspeaker to realistic levels
Machined front panel depicts the topography of Flagstaff Mountain near Boulder, Colorado
Class-A Smart Current biasing circuit
32 Amp IEC pre-terminated power cord supplied in order to safely transfer power to the 1162
and provide absolute maximum performance.
Newly developed protection circuitry safely and immediately shuts down the output section in case of shorted speaker cables or faults in the system and allows for greater peak power output
Updated Ethernet-enabled supervisor circuitry monitors amp, protection systems, and IP and HTML control; improving reliability and longevity
Four pairs of high-current speaker connections to easily accommodate for bi-wired loudspeakers
Dual power transformers are DC filtered and enclosed a welded steel case for perfectly silent operation
Boulder Net control access connects to networked systems & integrated homes and links the 1162 with other Boulder products
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Boulder Amplifiers 1162 — stereo power amplifier
The Boulder 1162 pairs monumental current delivery with razor-sharp neutrality, making it a reference stereo amplifier for demanding systems. With 300W continuous output and prodigious peak ratings (900W/4Ω, 1,000W/2Ω), the 1162 delivers slam, control and effortless dynamics. Its Class‑A Smart Current biasing, ultra-low THD and near-flat magnitude response translate to precise, transparent midrange and extended, clean treble while imaging remains spacious and stable. Built like a statement piece, the machined front panel, dual DC‑filtered power transformers in a welded steel case and robust protection circuitry underscore meticulous engineering. Ideal for large rooms, complex loudspeakers and networked systems, the 1162 suits audiophiles seeking absolute neutrality and headroom. As reviewed by Finn de Kroon, the 1162 justifies its premium positioning through performance and build excellence.
Pros
- Monumental current delivery and headroom—300W continuous with substantial peak ratings (900W/4Ω, 1,000W/2Ω) for authoritative control and dynamic impact.
- Exceptional linearity and low distortion—Class‑A Smart Current biasing plus measured ultra-low THD and near-flat magnitude response deliver transparent, accurate tonal balance.
- Reference-class build and silent operation—dual DC-filtered power transformers in a welded steel enclosure, machined front panel and comprehensive protection circuitry reflect meticulous engineering.
&
Cons
- Very high price (~$45,000) places the 1162 in a niche for deep-pocketed audiophiles despite performance that reviewers say justifies the premium.
Sound Quality
95/100
Dynamics
95/100
Reviewers praise the 300W continuous output and Class-A Smart Current biasing, noting the amp can "effortlessly drive any reasonable loudspeaker" and deliver "greater peak power output." Dual power transformers and peak ratings into low impedances (900W/4Ω, 1,000W/2Ω) support exceptional headroom, slam and control — reviewers describe authoritative, unflappable power delivery.
Soundstage Imaging
95/100
The reviewer describes an "immersive listening experience" and highlights clarity that implies excellent channel separation and soundstage scale. Given the amp's stable, high-current delivery and low noise (2.2 µV EIN), the imaging is reported as exceptionally stable and spacious even at realistic listening levels.
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Build Quality
95/100
Boulder emphasizes 40 years of engineering refinement with dual DC-filtered power transformers enclosed in a welded steel case; the review calls out mechanical and circuit optimization and "perfectly silent operation." The massive chassis/weight and substantial power supply design indicate top-tier thermal and electrical engineering consistent with premium build expectations.
Value for Money
89/100
Review language notes the amp's performance "supports a justified premium," positioning the 1162 as a high-end, class-leading product for its segment. At the stated price (~$45k) reviewers imply the cost is premium but commensurate with the engineering, performance, and build quality — hence a positive but not bargain-level value assessment.
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